Escapism, from the English word “escape,” is a retreat from reality, a way to avoid unpleasant or boring circumstances. It’s a coping mechanism, and while sometimes necessary for short-term stress relief, excessive escapism can be detrimental. Think of it like a video game’s difficulty setting – a little challenge is good, but grinding on easy mode indefinitely prevents growth.
Common forms of escapism are diverse, mirroring the breadth of human experiences. Some are healthy in moderation, others less so. Consider these examples:
- Productive Escapism: Engaging in hobbies like creative writing, painting, or even intense exercise. These activities offer focus and achievement, providing a sense of accomplishment that can be lacking in real-life challenges. Think of it as finding a challenging but rewarding side-quest in your life game.
- Passive Escapism: This includes things like binge-watching TV shows, spending countless hours gaming, or excessive social media use. While providing temporary relief, these often lack the same sense of progress and can even exacerbate underlying issues if overused. It’s the equivalent of choosing an easy path in a game, avoiding boss fights and meaningful progress.
- Substance-Related Escapism: This is the most dangerous form. Alcohol, drugs, and even excessive gambling offer potent but temporary escapes that often lead to far worse consequences in the long run. This is like exploiting a game’s glitches for an unfair advantage; the thrill is fleeting, and the penalty is substantial.
Understanding the difference between healthy and unhealthy escapism is crucial. The key lies in balance and awareness. Ask yourself: Does your chosen escape help you recharge and return to your life feeling refreshed and more capable, or does it leave you feeling more drained and avoiding the real issues? Think of it as leveling up – healthy escapism helps you improve skills useful in real life, while unhealthy escapism only lets you temporarily avoid confronting your own stats.
Finding a Healthy Balance:
- Identify your triggers: What situations lead you to seek escape?
- Recognize your patterns: What types of escapism do you gravitate towards?
- Set boundaries: Limit your time spent on passive escapism activities.
- Explore healthy alternatives: Discover productive hobbies that provide similar benefits.
- Seek support: If you struggle to manage your escapism, consider professional help.
Are games a real addiction?
Video game addiction, or internet gaming disorder, isn’t a simple “yes” or “no.” It’s a complex issue characterized by a significant loss of control over gaming habits, leading to detrimental consequences across multiple life domains. This isn’t about casually enjoying games; it’s about a pattern of behavior that negatively impacts your well-being.
Key indicators of problematic gaming behavior include:
- Preoccupation with gaming: Constantly thinking about gaming, even when not playing, and prioritizing it over other activities.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing irritability, anxiety, or depression when unable to play.
- Tolerance: Needing to play for longer periods or more intensely to achieve the same level of satisfaction.
- Unsuccessful attempts to control gaming: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce gaming time.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Compromising work, school, relationships, or personal hygiene due to excessive gaming.
- Lying about gaming habits: Concealing the extent of gaming to others.
- Continued gaming despite negative consequences: Persisting with gaming even when it’s causing problems in life.
The Severity Spectrum: It’s crucial to understand that gaming habits exist on a spectrum. Occasional excessive gaming isn’t automatically addiction. However, consistent manifestation of several of the above indicators warrants concern and potential professional help.
Seeking Help: If you’re worried about your gaming habits or those of a loved one, consider these resources:
- Mental health professionals: Therapists specializing in addiction can provide personalized support and treatment strategies.
- Support groups: Connecting with others facing similar challenges can offer valuable emotional support and practical advice.
- Self-help resources: Numerous online resources, including apps and websites, offer strategies for managing gaming habits.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Addressing problematic gaming early can prevent significant long-term consequences.
How can I escape reality?
Yo, so you wanna escape reality? We’ve all been there. It’s called escapism, bro, and it’s totally legit. It’s about dodging the boring or the sucky stuff in life, right? Think of it as a power-up for your mental health. Instead of facing the grind, you dive into something more engaging – games, books, movies, whatever floats your boat. It’s like hitting that “New Game” button on your life and exploring a different world. This can manifest in different ways, from losing yourself in a captivating RPG like Elden Ring, or getting lost in a gripping novel for hours, to losing yourself in some really good, immersive VR. The key is finding the right escape route that works for *you* and avoids becoming a crutch. Don’t let escapism become your *only* reality, though. It’s about finding a balance, using it as a tool to recharge, not a way to permanently avoid your problems. Think of it as a strategic retreat, not a permanent desertion. I’ve learned that over my years of streaming, finding that balance is key to maintaining your mental wellbeing. Remember, it’s about finding *healthy* ways to disconnect and recharge, then jump back into the real world with renewed energy and perspective. It’s all about strategic gameplay, people!
How can I escape reality?
So, you wanna escape reality, huh? Been there, done that, streamed it all. Let’s be real, we all need a break sometimes. Here are some gamer-approved methods, ranging from the hardcore to the chill:
- Grind hard, play hard: This ain’t just about workaholism; it’s about finding that flow state. Deep immersion in a challenging game, project, or hobby can be incredibly effective. The key is to choose something you genuinely enjoy and lose yourself in it. Think long raid nights, mastering a difficult song, or finally finishing that massive coding project.
- Level up your knowledge: Yeah, webinars and trainings can be useful, but let’s be honest, sometimes a good YouTube tutorial series does the trick just fine. Learn something new, whether it’s game development, graphic design, or even advanced cooking techniques. Turning learning into a game itself makes it more enjoyable.
- Get that loot: Exercise and physical activity are essential. Think of your body as a character that needs to be leveled up. Find an activity you enjoy, be it running, climbing, or even just some good old-fashioned sparring with friends. A healthy body = a healthy mind.
- Dive into other worlds: Video games are obviously at the top of my list. MMOs, RPGs, even chill puzzle games – the choice is yours. But also don’t forget other forms of escapism like movies, books, and music. Build a solid playlist for different moods, maybe even create a custom soundtrack for your daily grind. Find your escapism media of choice and get immersed. Don’t forget about the power of immersion with VR!
- The endless scroll: We all know the siren song of the internet. Be mindful, though. While browsing can provide temporary relief, it can also lead to a rabbit hole. Curate your feeds carefully, focusing on positive and interesting content.
- Loot boxes (aka Shopping): Okay, this one’s a bit of a double-edged sword. Use it sparingly. Retail therapy only works if you’re disciplined and have a budget.
- The comfort food meta: Everyone needs a little cheat meal now and then. But this is not a long-term solution for real-life problems. Keep your diet in check!
Important Note: These are coping mechanisms, not solutions. If you’re struggling to cope with reality, seek professional help. Don’t let the game become your entire life. Real life still needs to be played, too.
What does escaping reality mean?
Escapism, a term derived from the English word “escape,” signifies the act of withdrawing from unpleasant or mundane aspects of reality. It’s a coping mechanism, often involving immersion in activities perceived as more engaging or fulfilling than one’s current circumstances. This can range from simple distractions like reading or daydreaming to more involved pursuits like gaming, virtual reality experiences, or indulging in extensive fictional worlds (fandoms, for example). The core element is the shift of focus from present, potentially stressful reality to a perceived more desirable alternative—a different reality, a fictional world, or even an altered state of consciousness.
While escapism is often viewed negatively, implying avoidance of responsibilities and problems, it’s important to understand its nuanced role. In moderation, it can be a healthy tool for stress management and emotional regulation. Short periods of escape can provide respite, allowing individuals to recharge and return to their lives with renewed perspective and energy. However, problematic escapism arises when it becomes excessive, hindering one’s ability to function effectively in daily life, neglecting responsibilities, and leading to avoidance of important personal issues. The key difference lies in the balance – a healthy dose of escapism provides a temporary break, whereas problematic escapism replaces engagement with the real world.
Identifying the triggers and patterns of your escapism is crucial. Ask yourself: What situations or emotions prompt you to seek escape? What are your go-to escape methods? Understanding these triggers is the first step toward developing healthier coping strategies. Replacing maladaptive escapist behaviors with constructive ones, such as exercise, mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies, can help mitigate negative effects and foster a more balanced relationship with reality.
Moreover, the intensity and frequency of escapist behaviors are vital factors in determining their potential harm. Occasional indulgence in fantasy or entertainment is usually harmless. However, consistent and excessive escapism, particularly when it interferes with daily functioning and responsibilities, may indicate a need for professional help. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor if escapism is significantly impacting your well-being.
What does it mean to escape reality?
Escapism in gaming, especially esports, is a serious issue. It’s when someone repeatedly uses games, often competitively, to avoid dealing with real-life problems, stress, or negative emotions. Think of a pro player grinding for hours, neglecting their physical and mental health, or a casual gamer losing themselves in a virtual world to avoid confronting personal challenges. This isn’t just about playing games; it’s about the compulsive avoidance of reality. The pressure in competitive gaming, with its intense focus on winning and potential for burnout, can exacerbate escapist tendencies. Professional players often experience immense stress from training, competition, and public scrutiny, making them particularly vulnerable. The addictive nature of gaming, combined with dopamine rushes from victories and in-game rewards, can reinforce this behavior, creating a vicious cycle. Healthy boundaries and self-care strategies, including balanced gameplay, mental health support, and social interaction outside of gaming, are crucial in preventing escapism from spiraling out of control. Regularly disconnecting from the game to engage in offline activities can significantly contribute to a healthier relationship with gaming.
What does escaping reality mean?
Escaping reality is a defense mechanism involving the use of fantasy to avoid confronting conflicts and challenges of daily life. It’s a coping strategy, often unconscious, where individuals retreat into imaginary worlds, daydreams, or addictive behaviors to alleviate stress and anxiety. This can manifest in various forms, from excessive gaming and social media consumption to substance abuse and extreme escapism through fiction.
While temporary escapism can be a healthy way to de-stress, chronic avoidance prevents individuals from developing effective coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills. This can lead to a vicious cycle where problems accumulate, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and helplessness, further reinforcing the need to escape.
Understanding the underlying causes is crucial. These can range from trauma and unresolved emotional issues to societal pressures and low self-esteem. Identifying the triggers and developing healthier coping strategies, like mindfulness, exercise, and therapy, is essential for breaking free from this cycle.
Recognizing the signs of escapism in oneself or others is a first step towards seeking help. These may include neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from social interactions, experiencing increased feelings of anxiety and depression when faced with challenges, and relying heavily on fantasy or escapist activities to regulate emotions.
Ultimately, healthy coping mechanisms involve directly addressing problems, developing resilience, and building strong support networks. While fantasy and escapism can offer temporary relief, sustainable well-being requires engagement with reality and the development of constructive problem-solving strategies.
What is the term for attempting to escape reality?
In game design, escapism is a powerful tool, but understanding its nuances is crucial for crafting compelling and impactful experiences. It’s not simply about avoiding reality; it’s about the player’s desire to transcend their current state, whether it’s boredom, stress, or a need for self-expression. This “escape” manifests in different ways, depending on the game’s mechanics and narrative.
Games facilitate escapism through several key mechanisms:
- Immersive Worlds: Highly detailed environments and engaging storylines transport players to other realms, offering a temporary refuge from everyday life. This is amplified by strong narrative design and believable world-building.
- Challenging Gameplay: The focus on overcoming obstacles and achieving goals provides a sense of accomplishment and flow state, effectively distracting from real-world concerns. The difficulty curve plays a major role here – properly tuned challenge is vital.
- Social Interaction: Many games provide opportunities for social interaction, fostering a sense of community and belonging, which can be highly therapeutic for players seeking connection. MMORPGs and competitive titles are prime examples.
- Fantasy Fulfillment: Games allow players to step into roles and situations they might not experience in reality – becoming a powerful warrior, a skilled detective, or a master strategist. This power fantasy element is a strong driver of escapism.
However, excessive escapism can be detrimental. A well-designed game should offer balanced escapism: allowing players to disconnect temporarily, but also encouraging a healthy return to reality. This balance is achieved through:
- Meaningful Progression: Providing players with tangible progress and accomplishments helps ground the escapist fantasy in a sense of achievement.
- Realistic Consequences: Introducing realistic consequences for in-game actions can prevent the experience from becoming entirely detached from reality.
- Narrative Depth: Exploring relatable themes and characters, even within fantastical settings, creates a bridge between the game world and the player’s real-world experiences.
Ultimately, understanding the mechanics and potential pitfalls of escapism is key to creating compelling and responsible game experiences that provide both entertainment and a sense of healthy detachment.
Is four hours of gaming a day too much?
Four hours of daily screen time is significantly above the recommended limits.
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommendations:
- Weekdays: 30-60 minutes of screen time
- Weekends: Up to 2 hours of screen time
Excessive screen time can lead to:
- Physical Health Issues: Obesity, sleep disturbances, eye strain, and poor posture.
- Mental Health Concerns: Increased risk of anxiety, depression, and attention deficit issues. Excessive gaming can also lead to addiction.
- Academic Performance: Reduced concentration, lower grades, and difficulty focusing on schoolwork.
- Social Development: Limited opportunities for real-world social interaction and development of crucial social skills.
Tips for Managing Screen Time:
- Set clear limits and stick to them. Use timers and parental control apps.
- Encourage alternative activities: Promote outdoor play, reading, creative hobbies, and family time.
- Make screen time intentional: Choose high-quality educational apps and games.
- Be a role model: Limit your own screen time to demonstrate healthy habits.
- Open communication: Talk to your child about the importance of balanced screen time and its impact on their well-being.
Consider professional help if you suspect screen time addiction or other related issues.
Why do games affect the psyche?
Let’s be real, the impact of gaming on your psyche isn’t some simple good-versus-evil thing. It’s nuanced, like a perfectly timed parry in a high-stakes duel.
Moderate gaming? Yeah, that’s your happy medium. It’s the dopamine rush of a clutch victory, the satisfaction of mastering a difficult mechanic. Think of it as a mental workout; it sharpens your reflexes and boosts your mood. Those feel-good endorphins? They’re a legitimate reward.
The thing is, it’s not just about winning. It’s about the flow state. That complete immersion where time melts away and you’re hyper-focused. That’s stress relief right there, a potent antidote to the daily grind. It’s like meditating, but with explosions and loot.
And don’t underestimate the power of social interaction. Whether it’s coordinating strategies with your raid team or trash-talking your opponents, gaming can foster strong bonds and a sense of community. It’s about shared goals and shared experiences, strengthening your mental resilience.
- Improved cognitive function: Games often challenge problem-solving, critical thinking, and quick decision-making skills. It’s like a constant mental agility training.
- Enhanced multitasking abilities: Many games require you to manage multiple tasks simultaneously – crucial in real-life situations too.
- Increased hand-eye coordination: This one’s a no-brainer; the more you play, the better your reaction times become.
But here’s the kicker: moderation is key. Just like any potent substance, overuse can be detrimental. Burnout is real, and neglecting other aspects of your life can lead to imbalances. Know your limits, strategize your sessions, and maintain a healthy gaming lifestyle.
What does God say about escaping reality?
So, you’re asking what God says about escaping reality? It’s a complex issue, but the core message is this: Isaiah 30:20 (slightly paraphrased): “Though you may try to run from reality, remember this promise: The Lord will give you bread in times of sorrow and water in times of need. Your Teacher will no longer hide, and your eyes will see your Teacher.”
What does this *really* mean in practical terms? Let’s break it down:
- Facing hardship is inevitable: Life throws curveballs. Running away doesn’t make them disappear; it just prolongs the pain and prevents growth.
- God provides even in adversity: The “bread and water” metaphor symbolizes God’s provision, even when things seem bleak. It’s about trusting in His support, not just material things.
- Spiritual guidance is available: The “Teacher” refers to God’s guidance and wisdom. Escaping reality often shuts us off from this vital connection. Opening ourselves to His presence allows us to navigate challenges with clarity and grace.
Think of it like a video game: you can try to avoid the tough bosses, but eventually you have to confront them to progress. Similarly, ignoring our problems won’t make them go away. By facing reality, embracing faith, and seeking God’s guidance, we unlock strength, resilience, and ultimately, victory.
- Identify your escape mechanisms: Are you using drugs, alcohol, excessive gaming, or social media to avoid difficult emotions or situations?
- Seek professional help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling to cope with life’s challenges.
- Build a strong support system: Connect with friends, family, or faith communities who can offer encouragement and support.
What does it mean to run away from reality?
Escapism, in gaming terms, is like choosing a “New Game+” difficulty setting on life – you’re avoiding the grind, the challenges, the frustrating bosses of reality. It’s not inherently bad, but like any exploit, overusing it weakens your character.
Think of it as these three main “cheat codes”:
- Passive Escapism: This is like repeatedly selecting the “Easy” difficulty. You’re immersing yourself in distractions – binge-watching shows, endlessly scrolling social media, losing yourself in fantasy novels. It provides temporary relief, but doesn’t address the underlying issues. It’s a quick fix, but ultimately leaves you under-leveled for real-world challenges.
- Active Escapism: This is like grinding out a specific skill to become overpowered. You’re actively seeking out escapist activities – gaming, creating art, losing yourself in a hobby. It offers a sense of accomplishment and can even be healthy in moderation. Think of it as strategic leveling up – building up skills and resilience that *can* be applied to your real life, but only if you consciously make the connection.
- Maladaptive Escapism: This is exploiting a game glitch. This is the dangerous zone – substance abuse, self-harm, avoiding responsibilities. It bypasses the challenges altogether, offering only temporary relief and often leading to serious consequences down the line. It’s a game over waiting to happen.
The key takeaway? Escapism itself isn’t the problem. The problem is when it prevents you from leveling up your real-life skills and facing your own “bosses.” Like any good game, life requires a balance between challenging yourself and taking breaks to recharge. Learn to identify your escape routes and whether they’re helping you heal or hindering your growth.
Consider these questions:
- What triggers your need to escape?
- What healthy coping mechanisms can you develop to address those triggers?
- How can you translate the skills you gain from your escapist activities to real-world situations?
How many hours is a normal amount to play games per day?
Eight hours is a solid workday, right? But we’re talking gaming here, not spreadsheets. Going beyond 10-12 hours is a recipe for burnout – seriously, I’ve seen it wreck careers.
The sweet spot? 2-8 hours, depending on your setup and goals. If you’re grinding for a specific in-game achievement, a longer session might be okay, but break it up! Remember to stretch, hydrate, and step away from the screen.
Pro-tip: Schedule your gaming. Treat it like any other appointment. This helps avoid those “just one more game” marathons that bleed into your sleep schedule.
Another thing: Your performance dips significantly after 4-5 hours of focused play. You’ll make more mistakes and your reaction time suffers. Consider shorter, more intense sessions for peak performance. Quality over quantity, right?
Finally, listen to your body. Fatigue, headaches, eye strain – these are all warning signs to take a break. Ignoring them leads to trouble down the line. It’s about sustainable gaming, not gaming till you drop.
What do psychologists think about video games?
Look, as someone who’s logged thousands of hours across various genres, I can tell you the impact of video games is complex. It’s not a simple “good” or “bad” scenario.
The Positives:
- Improved Cognitive Skills: Many games demand quick thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning, sharpening cognitive functions. Think puzzle games, strategy RPGs, even some first-person shooters requiring spatial awareness.
- Stress Relief and Relaxation: Escapism is a powerful tool. A good game can be a fantastic way to unwind after a long day, providing a healthy distraction.
- Therapeutic Applications: Games are increasingly used in therapy, particularly for improving motor skills, cognitive rehabilitation, and even social skills in certain contexts.
- Community Building: Online multiplayer games foster social interaction and build communities, offering a sense of belonging and friendship. Choose your games wisely though; not all online communities are created equal.
The Concerns:
- Addiction: This is a real risk. The dopamine hits from progression and rewards can be highly addictive. Know your limits and prioritize other aspects of your life.
- Violence and Aggression: While correlation doesn’t equal causation, research continues on the potential link between violent video game exposure and aggressive behavior. Be mindful of the types of games you play and how they make you feel.
- Time Management: Gaming can easily consume vast amounts of time, potentially impacting work, studies, social life, and physical health. Balance is key.
My Advice:
- Moderation: Set time limits and stick to them. Schedule gaming time like any other important activity.
- Variety: Diversify your game library. Don’t focus solely on one genre. Explore different types of games to engage different parts of your brain.
- Self-Awareness: Pay attention to how you feel after playing. If you feel stressed, anxious, or irritable, it might be time to take a break.
- Real-Life Connections: Maintain a strong balance between your virtual and real-life relationships.
Ultimately, it’s about responsible gaming. Like any powerful tool, video games can be used for good or ill. The choice is yours.
What do you call a person who escapes from reality?
An escapist is someone who avoids confronting or dealing with reality by retreating into fantasy, daydreams, or other forms of avoidance. This isn’t necessarily a negative trait in small doses; everyone engages in some escapism to de-stress. However, problematic escapism becomes an issue when it interferes with daily life, responsibilities, and relationships. Think of it as a spectrum: light escapism might involve watching a movie after a stressful day, while chronic escapism could involve substance abuse, excessive gaming, or persistent avoidance of social interaction to the point of isolation.
Understanding the underlying causes is crucial. Escapism often stems from underlying anxieties, depression, trauma, or a lack of coping mechanisms. Identifying the root cause – whether it’s stress at work, relationship problems, or past trauma – is the first step towards healthier coping strategies.
Effective strategies for managing escapism involve building healthier coping mechanisms. This could include mindfulness techniques, exercise, creative pursuits, therapy, or connecting with a supportive social network. The goal isn’t to eliminate escapism entirely—that’s often unrealistic—but to manage it so it doesn’t control your life.
Recognizing the signs of problematic escapism in yourself or others is key. This includes withdrawal from responsibilities, neglecting personal hygiene, significant changes in mood or behavior, and relying heavily on escapist activities to cope with everyday situations. If you suspect problematic escapism, seeking professional help is highly recommended.
In short, escapism exists on a continuum. Understanding its causes and developing healthier coping mechanisms are vital for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.
What genre of games develops the brain?
Let’s cut the crap. Science shows shooters aren’t just twitch-fest fun; they’re brain candy. Improved reaction time? Check. Focus like a laser? Got that. Multitasking skills? Yeah, they’ll level up those too. Think of it as mental calisthenics; you’re strengthening cognitive functions, sharpening your decision-making under pressure. And get this: studies suggest potential benefits against Alzheimer’s and dementia. It’s not a cure, obviously, but maintaining cognitive agility is key, and intense gaming can be a part of that. But don’t just stick to shooters. Strategy games like StarCraft or Civilization demand planning, resource management, and long-term strategic thinking – all incredibly useful mental exercises. Real-time strategy games force you to adapt and overcome, pushing your problem-solving skills to the limit. Think of it like this: PvP isn’t just about reflexes; it’s a mental chess match. The better you can process information, anticipate your opponent’s moves, and adjust your strategy on the fly, the more successful you’ll be. So yeah, games can be good for your brain. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Is it harmful to play games for 10 hours a day?
Ten hours of daily gaming significantly exceeds healthy engagement levels. Research consistently links excessive gaming (8-10+ hours/day or 30+/week) with gaming disorder, characterized by impaired control over gaming, prioritization of gaming over other life aspects, and continued gaming despite negative consequences.
Beyond behavioral health issues, considerable physical and mental health risks emerge:
- Sedentary Lifestyle and its Consequences: Prolonged inactivity leads to increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal problems (like carpal tunnel syndrome), and metabolic disorders. Regular breaks and physical activity are crucial to mitigate these risks.
- Sleep Disturbances: Irregular sleep patterns, sleep deprivation, and disrupted circadian rhythms are common among excessive gamers, impacting cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall health.
- Eye Strain and Vision Problems: Hours spent staring at screens can cause eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and potentially contribute to long-term vision problems. Regular breaks, proper lighting, and maintaining a proper screen distance are essential.
- Mental Health Impacts: Beyond gaming disorder itself, excessive gaming can exacerbate existing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, or even trigger new ones due to social isolation, sleep deprivation, and stress.
- Social Isolation and Relationship Strain: Prioritizing gaming over real-life interactions can lead to social isolation, strained relationships with family and friends, and difficulty forming and maintaining healthy social connections.
Strategies for Healthy Gaming:
- Time Management: Set clear limits on daily and weekly gaming time and stick to them.
- Regular Breaks: Incorporate frequent short breaks to rest your eyes, stretch, and move around.
- Prioritize Real-Life Activities: Maintain a balance between gaming and other important aspects of life, including social interactions, physical activity, and academic/professional pursuits.
- Seek Professional Help: If you suspect you or someone you know has a gaming disorder, seek help from a mental health professional.