Hooked onto video games? Now that's officially a disorder
Who says so? WHO, of course. So this modern malaise is now fair game for medics.
By ET Bureau | Updated:
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Now there is officially a name for all the catatonic youngsters hooked onto video games — ‘gaming disorder’ as per the revised version of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems maintained by the World Health Organization (WHO).
More importantly though, elders should be alarmed by the fact that ‘gaming disorder’ is described in near-identical terms to an even better known pathological affliction — gambling — bestowed the same suffix much earlier. Of course, the WHO move to deem gaming as an addictive behaviour issue may be seen as vindication of the travails of parents and schools grappling with zombie-like youngsters, but not everyone will be relieved. Gaming companies, for instance. No wonder they have deemed the move “premature”.
Stress and frustration can lead to depression, further affecting mental health.
While it is imperative to consult with a medical professional if symptoms of depression are noticed, certain modification in one's lifestyle can help in combatting mild depression. However, moderate to severe depression requires the treatment with medications.
Nevertheless lifestyle changes do help in recovering as well as preventing the condition and future episodes.
Dr Pallavi Aravind Joshi, Consultant Psychiatrist of Columbia Asia Hospital Whitefield (Bengaluru) shares 7 tips to combat depression.
Nor is it surprising that many scientists remain underwhelmed by the WHO classification because of lack of clarity on diagnostic criteria and appropriate symptoms. But then they have been grumbling in vain about homeopathy too.
It may be noted that India and China drew their own conclusions far earlier and relevant authorities in several cities in Gujarat have banned in their jurisdictions some games that appeared to be particularly addictive. There is no doubt, however, this new disorder will confidently join the list of other modern malaises now.
More importantly though, elders should be alarmed by the fact that ‘gaming disorder’ is described in near-identical terms to an even better known pathological affliction — gambling — bestowed the same suffix much earlier. Of course, the WHO move to deem gaming as an addictive behaviour issue may be seen as vindication of the travails of parents and schools grappling with zombie-like youngsters, but not everyone will be relieved. Gaming companies, for instance. No wonder they have deemed the move “premature”.
While it is imperative to consult with a medical professional if symptoms of depression are noticed, certain modification in one's lifestyle can help in combatting mild depression. However, moderate to severe depression requires the treatment with medications.
Nevertheless lifestyle changes do help in recovering as well as preventing the condition and future episodes.
Dr Pallavi Aravind Joshi, Consultant Psychiatrist of Columbia Asia Hospital Whitefield (Bengaluru) shares 7 tips to combat depression.
Nor is it surprising that many scientists remain underwhelmed by the WHO classification because of lack of clarity on diagnostic criteria and appropriate symptoms. But then they have been grumbling in vain about homeopathy too.
It may be noted that India and China drew their own conclusions far earlier and relevant authorities in several cities in Gujarat have banned in their jurisdictions some games that appeared to be particularly addictive. There is no doubt, however, this new disorder will confidently join the list of other modern malaises now.
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