Planned to play for 20 minutes and it’s 3 a.m. again? Gaming disorder is officially recognised by the World Health Organization (ICD-11), and problem smartphone use follows a similar pattern. It most often affects teenage boys and young men, but anyone can be affected.
Signs of a problem
- Losing track of time and being unable to cut down
- Anger or irritability when the phone or game is taken away
- Late nights, falling grades and skipped activities
- Hiding usage or lying about it
- Spending or borrowing money for games or betting apps
- Withdrawing from family and real-world friends
Why it happens
Games and apps are designed with reward loops — levels, likes, wins and near-misses — that trigger dopamine in the brain’s reward system. Loneliness, boredom, anxiety, depression or ADHD make escape into screens more tempting.
What parents can do
- Set screen rules together with your child — and follow them yourself.
- Keep phones and consoles out of bedrooms at night.
- Replace, don’t just remove — sport, hobbies and time with friends.
- Talk about feelings, not only about screen time.
- Watch for signs of anxiety or low mood behind the gaming.
When to seek help
If screen use is affecting studies, sleep or relationships, or there are signs of betting or depression, an assessment helps. Treatment includes CBT for behavioural addiction, motivational interviewing, a personalised digital-detox plan and family sessions.
Frequently asked questions
How much screen time is too much for a teenager?
There is no single number. Screen use is a concern when it replaces sleep, study, physical activity or family time, or causes anger when limited.
Should I take away my teen’s phone completely?
Sudden total bans often backfire. Agreed limits, phone-free times and replacement activities usually work better and protect your relationship.
Can therapy help with gaming addiction?
Yes. CBT and family sessions help teenagers manage urges, rebuild routines and address underlying stress, loneliness or low mood.
Talk to a professional
If this article sounds familiar, you don’t have to work it out alone. Book a confidential session with Dr. Rabya Umman at Vasant Kunj, New Friends Colony or online.
Related services
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for a professional assessment. If you are in crisis, call Tele-MANAS 14416 (free, 24×7).
