Video Game Addiction and Healthy Gamer

Introduction

• Prevalence of Gaming: 97% of U.S. teenage boys play video games regularly.
• Rise of eSports: Gaming is becoming increasingly popular with competitive eSports.
• Issue: When does gaming turn into an unhealthy habit?

Case Study: Mary's Son

• Mary's son became obsessed with Fortnite.
  • Symptoms: Character changes, lack of sleep, lying.
  • Action: Mary took Fortnite away, but her son ran away and was taken to the ER fearing he might harm himself.
• Initial Diagnosis: Experts suggested treating for depression.

Expert Insight: Dr. Alok Kanojia

• Background: Harvard psychiatrist, former gaming addict.
• Belief: Gaming addiction fills a void, different from substance use disorders.
• Approach: Finding balance, not cold turkey.
  • Personal experience: Struggled with gaming during college leading to academic probation.
  • Solution: Spent three months in India studying yoga and meditation.
    • Learning: Understanding desire and the nature of change.

Healthy Gamer Initiative

• Concept: Toolkit for gamers who can't access traditional therapy.
• Services:
  • Live sessions on Twitch and Discord.
  • Guided meditations and mental health discussions on YouTube.
  • Educative kits for parents, teachers, and gamers for a fee.
• Target Audience: Analytical thinkers who need to connect with their emotions.

Impact and Feedback

• Mary's Son: Improved, now involved in sports and doing well.
• Feedback:
  • Positive responses from the gaming community.
  • Gamers and parents report lifestyle improvements and better understanding.
  • YouTube comments show positive feedback, unusual for gaming community.
• Monetization: Free content on Twitch, Discord, and YouTube; paid kits available.

Conclusion

• Effectiveness: Anecdotal evidence of success, positive community feedback.
• Goal: To help gamers find balance and improve their lifestyles through understanding and moderation.