Is My Child Addicted to Gaming?

Yes. The World Health Organization recognized 'Gaming Disorder' in 2018 as a behavioral addiction with specific diagnostic criteria. It's characterized by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming despite negative consequences, and significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, or occupational functioning.

There's no magic number - what matters more is how gaming affects your child's life. Watch for these warning signs: • Gaming interferes with sleep (staying up late, tired during the day) • Declining performance in school or work • Withdrawing from family and friends • Physical health issues (headaches, poor hygiene, weight changes) • Behavioral changes (irritability, defensiveness) Even 2-3 hours daily can be problematic if it causes these issues. The key indicators are behavioral changes, neglect of responsibilities, and inability to cut back despite wanting to.

While it may seem like the obvious solution, forced removal often backfires. It can damage trust and cause your child to become more secretive or find other ways to game. A collaborative approach with clear boundaries, open communication, and alternative activities works better for long-term change.

Yes. With proper support, most people can regain control. Treatment often includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, and learning healthier coping mechanisms. Programs like Lume are designed specifically for gaming addiction recovery, combining peer support with evidence-based techniques.

Defensiveness is a common sign of addiction. Start with empathy rather than accusations. Use 'I' statements ('I'm worried about you') rather than 'you' statements ('You play too much'). Pick calm moments to talk, not right after gaming sessions. If communication remains blocked, consider family therapy or professional help.

No. This is a screening tool to help you understand severity and decide if professional help is needed. Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose gaming disorder. If your child scores high on this assessment, we strongly recommend scheduling an evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in addiction.

Early warning signs include: lying about gaming time, declining grades, losing interest in activities they used to enjoy, irritability when not gaming, staying up late to play games, and choosing gaming over social interactions. If you notice 3 or more of these behaviors persisting for several months, it's time to assess the situation more seriously. This assessment tool can help you evaluate the severity.

While the game mechanics differ, Fortnite addiction follows the same behavioral patterns as other gaming addictions: loss of control, prioritizing gaming over responsibilities, and continued play despite negative consequences. Fortnite's Battle Royale format and social features can make it particularly engaging for children. The assessment criteria in this tool apply to all games, including Fortnite, Roblox, Minecraft, and competitive games.