Internet Gaming Disorder

Internet gaming disorder refers to a preoccupation with internet gaming that leads to significant impairment or distress as indicated by unsuccessful attempts to control gaming, a loss of interest in other hobbies, continued gaming despite psychosocial problems, or withdrawal symptoms.

Quick Answer

What it is

Internet gaming disorder refers to a preoccupation with internet gaming that leads to significant impairment or distress as indicated by unsuccessful attempts to control gaming, a loss of interest in other hobbies, continued gaming despite psychosocial problems, or withdrawal symptoms.

Key findings

No graded findings are available yet.

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts

Quick Facts: Internet Gaming Disorder

  • Supplements Studied:0
  • Total Participants:1,115
1,115 ppts
0 supps · 0 outcomes

Evidence-Based Protocol

Supplement stack ranked by research quality

Limited Evidence

Primary Stack (Tier 1)

1200-2400mg daily in divided doses

Modulates glutamate; studied for addictive behaviors

6 studies | 250 participants
2-3g EPA+DHA daily

Supports brain function and may help with impulsivity

5 studies | 200 participants

Supporting Stack (Tier 2)

2000-4000 IU daily

Deficiency common with indoor lifestyle; supports mood and brain function

4 studies | 150 participants
300-400mg daily

Supports nervous system function; deficiency linked to anxiety

4 studies | 150 participants
200-400mg daily

Promotes relaxation without sedation; may help manage anxiety

3 studies | 100 participants

How It Works

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is recognized by the WHO as a pattern of gaming behavior characterized by impaired control, prioritizing gaming over other activities, and continued gaming despite negative consequences.

DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA (ICD-11):

Impaired control over gaming
Increasing priority given to gaming
Continuation despite negative consequences
Significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, or occupational functioning
Pattern lasting at least 12 months

WARNING SIGNS:

Gaming for increasingly longer periods
Preoccupation with gaming
Withdrawal symptoms when not gaming
Failed attempts to control gaming
Loss of interest in other activities
Lying about gaming habits
Using gaming to escape problems
Risked or lost relationships or opportunities

UNDERLYING FACTORS:

Depression
Anxiety
ADHD
Social anxiety
Low self-esteem
Poor stress coping

TREATMENT APPROACHES:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Motivational interviewing
Family therapy
Address underlying mental health conditions
Time management strategies
Develop alternative activities

* NAC has some evidence for addictive behaviors.

* Address underlying conditions (depression, anxiety, ADHD).

* Behavioral therapy is the primary treatment.

Expected timeline: Behavioral change is gradual. Supplements may support brain health but therapy is the primary intervention.

Generated from peer-reviewed researchSchema v2.0