Gaming Addiction Recovery
Level up in real life. Track your recovery from gaming addiction and achieve genuine accomplishments.
Understanding Gaming Addiction
Gaming Disorder is recognized by the World Health Organization as a pattern of persistent gaming behavior characterized by impaired control, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities, and continuation despite negative consequences. Video games are designed with psychological hooks that can lead to compulsive play.
Signs of Gaming Addiction
Gaming may be a problem if you experience:
Loss of Control
Inability to stop playing despite wanting to
Prioritizing Gaming
Choosing gaming over work, school, sleep, or relationships
Withdrawal Symptoms
Irritability, anxiety, or sadness when unable to play
Tolerance
Needing longer sessions to feel satisfied
Loss of Interest
Abandoning previously enjoyed activities for gaming
Deceiving Others
Lying about gaming time or playing in secret
Escape
Using gaming to avoid problems or negative feelings
Continued Despite Consequences
Gaming despite job loss, failing grades, or relationship damage
Effects of Gaming Addiction
Excessive gaming affects physical health, mental wellbeing, and life success.
Short-Term Effects
- Sleep deprivation
- Poor nutrition and irregular eating
- Physical inactivity
- Eye strain and headaches
- Neglected hygiene
- Social isolation from real-world relationships
Long-Term Effects
- Career or academic failure
- Relationship breakdown
- Depression and anxiety
- Physical health decline
- Social skill atrophy
- Financial problems (from purchases or job loss)
- Stunted personal development
Your Gaming Recovery Journey
Recovery from gaming addiction opens time for real achievement and connection. Here's how Sobrius helps:
Track Game-Free Time
Watch your recovery streak grow. Some choose total abstinence; others set controlled limits.
Monitor Urges
Daily check-ins track craving intensity and help identify triggers—boredom, stress, social situations.
Handle Withdrawal
Access crisis tools when the urge to play feels overwhelming. Cravings typically decrease over 2-4 weeks.
Fill the Void
Track new activities that replace gaming time with fulfilling alternatives.
Find Support
Connect with others who understand gaming addiction and are pursuing recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gaming addiction real?
Yes. Gaming Disorder is recognized by the World Health Organization in the ICD-11. Research shows gaming addiction shares neurological patterns with substance addictions, including dopamine dysregulation and compulsive behavior.
Can I game in moderation after addiction?
This is debated. Some recover to moderate, controlled gaming; others find complete abstinence necessary—similar to alcohol addiction. Sobrius supports whichever approach works for you.
What games are most addictive?
Games with no endpoint, social elements, variable rewards, and competitive ranking tend to be most addictive. MMORPGs, competitive multiplayer games, and mobile games with gacha mechanics carry higher risk.
How long does gaming withdrawal last?
Intense urges typically peak in the first 1-2 weeks and decrease significantly within 30 days. Some experience post-acute symptoms like boredom and low motivation for 2-3 months as the brain adjusts.
Recovery Resources
Professional support and community resources for your recovery journey.
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Join thousands of people using Sobrius to track their gaming recovery. Free forever, with optional premium features.