Video Game Addiction Therapy in New York, NY
At the office of Dr. Michael Fraser in New York, NY, psychological evaluations are performed to address many different types of questions and issues.
Attention Deficit Disorder
With advances in technology and the development of increasingly high-speed Internet, mobile internet devices, and interactive computer and video games,video game addiction problems are on the rise. Problems with excessive use can often lead to devastating consequences to one's family, academic, work, or social life.
Regaining control, BEFORE things get out of hand, can be one of the most important decisions a person can make.
Am I Addicted?
At the present time, there is no formal diagnosis called "Video Game Addiction" although many clinicians and researchers describe excessive and problematic computer and video game use using this term. The reason it is described this way is because the signs and symptoms of excessive and problematic computer and video game use often mimic the signs and symptoms that occur with drug and alcohol addiction.
Signs of Addiction Include:
- Significant preoccupation with use, also known as "cravings" (especially when not using)
- Feeling a "high," "numb," or "buzzed" when engaged in the activity.
- Increasing quantity (amount or time spent) to gain the feeling that was experienced at the beginning
- Feeling moody, irritable, depressed or anxious, or showing physical symptoms (ranging from headaches and stomach pain, to nausea and vomiting), when use is discontinued
- Significant conflict between the individual who is using and those around him/her, as well as guilty feelings about excessive use
Get Help Sooner Rather Than Later:
Very often, people who need help do not get the help they need. At the office of Dr. Michael Fraser in New York, NY, my philosophy is to err on the side of caution. If, after reading the information on this page, you believe you or someone you know shows the signs and symptoms of Video Game addiction listed here, please do not hesitate to call to get more information. The earlier a problem is treated, the better the prognosis tends to be.
Things to Look For:
- Secretive use, lying about use
- Using approximately 24-30 hours or more per week (non-work/school related)
- Mood shifts when not using (e.g., increased irritability)
- Increase in arguments about excessive use with close others
- Work performance drops, or grades drop significantly
- Significant decrease in social, non-computer related activities
- Major sleep problems
- Neglecting important responsibilities
- Deterioration of health or hygiene due to computer-related use
- The above signs and symptoms have been present for at least 3 to 6 months
Can Video Game Addiction be Treated?
At the office of Dr. Michael Fraser in New York, NY, I have extensive experience treating conditions such as major depression, anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as other addictive disorders such as alcohol/substance abuse and pathological gambling. Some of these conditions are often present in people who exhibit the signs and symptoms of excessive and problematic Computer and Video game use.
Excessive and problematic Computer and Video game use is often a sign of other major life problems (interpersonal, family, emotional, scholastic, educational, marital), and can serve as a response to or an escape from the stress. I take a comprehensive approach to treatment that takes into account the role of emotions, thoughts and relationship patterns in the development and maintenance of this problematic behavior. My approach focuses on getting negative behaviors under control as soon as possible, while getting to the root of the problem so that positive changes can take hold and persist after treatment ends.
If you are committed to this kind of treatment, at the office of Dr. Michael Fraser in New York, NY, I am committed to helping you move forward in overcoming the problem and improving your life and relationships.
Call the office of Dr. Michael Fraser today to schedule the appointment.
Additional Information & Tips
TEN TIPS EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW about problematic Internet/video gaming/technology use:
http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/problematic-internet-use-children-0515135
Dr. Fraser was featured in the New York Daily News about excessive video gaming:
www.nydailynews.com/life-style/health/kids-addicted-video-games-violent-experts-article-1.1298338
THREE TIPS TO TAKING AN UNPLUGGED VACATION:
http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/three-tips-to-taking-an-unplugged-vacation-0618135l