Internet Gaming & Social Networking

What is internet gaming and social networking?

Internet gaming refers to playing video games online, including everything from casual mobile games to more immersive multiplayer online games (MMOs). Popular titles like Fortnite, League of Legends, and World of Warcraft allow players to connect with others globally. Social networking, on the other hand, involves using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to share content, interact with friends, and engage in online communities. While both activities can be enjoyable and socially enriching, excessive involvement can lead to negative outcomes, including addiction, mental health issues, and strained relationships.

Types of internet gaming and social networking

Internet gaming:

• Massively multiplayer online games (MMOs): Games like World of Warcraft and Fortnite involve large-scale, interactive multiplayer experiences, often requiring players to dedicate significant amounts of time.
• Mobile games: Casual games such as Candy Crush, Clash of Clans, and PUBG Mobile are easily accessible and often involve microtransactions, leading to excessive time or money spent on in-game purchases.
• Online gambling and betting: Online casinos, poker, and sports betting platforms, where players wager real money, can lead to financial problems and compulsive behaviours.

Social networking:

• Social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok are widely used to share updates, photos, and videos, and connect with others. However, overuse can foster anxiety, unhealthy comparisons, and a focus on seeking validation.
• Online communities and forums: Platforms like Reddit and Discord host niche communities, which can lead to excessive engagement or unhealthy online interactions.

Signs of problematic use

If you or someone you know is spending too much time on gaming or social networking, these could be signs of problematic behaviour:

Internet gaming:

• Preoccupation with gaming: Constantly thinking about your next session or planning your day around gaming.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Ignoring work, study, or personal commitments in favour of gaming.
• Escalating gaming time: Gradually increasing the amount of time spent gaming, often ignoring real-life consequences.
• Chasing achievements: Like gambling, gaming can become a cycle of chasing rewards or in-game achievements, even when it negatively affects daily life.
• Mood swings: Feeling irritable, anxious, or upset when unable to play, or when experiencing setbacks in the game.

Social networking:

• Constant checking: Frequently checking social media, refreshing feeds, or spending hours scrolling without purpose.
• Impact on self-esteem: Comparing yourself to others and feeling inadequate or anxious when posts don’t receive as much attention (likes, comments).
• Social withdrawal: Spending more time online than engaging with friends or family in person.
• Addiction to validation: Relying on social media likes or comments for self-worth, which can create a cycle of unhealthy behaviours.
• Online conflict or cyberbullying: Increased exposure to negativity, arguments, or cyberbullying, which can harm mental health.
  

Impact of excessive use

Excessive gaming or social networking can have serious consequences for your mental health, relationships, and finances.

Mental health effects:

• Anxiety and depression: Excessive gaming or social networking is linked to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. The need for validation on social media or pressure to perform well in games can cause stress.
• Isolation: Spending too much time online may lead to a lack of face-to-face interactions, increasing feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
• Burnout: Long hours of gaming or social media use can lead to mental exhaustion, affecting productivity, focus, and overall mood.

Financial impact:

• Spending on in-game purchases: Online gaming, especially mobile games and online casinos, can encourage players to spend money on in-game purchases or real money gambling, leading to financial strain.
• Losses in gambling: Online casinos and betting platforms can become addictive and result in significant financial loss, particularly if the individual is not careful with their spending.

Relationship strain:

• Neglecting relationships: Excessive gaming or social networking can lead to neglect of personal responsibilities and relationships with family, friends, or colleagues.
• Tension and mistrust: Hiding gaming or social networking habits, especially when they interfere with real-life obligations, can create mistrust and conflict in relationships.

How to manage and overcome these problems

If you recognise any signs of problematic internet gaming or social networking, there are ways to regain control and manage your time more effectively.

For internet gaming:

• Set time limits: Establish daily or weekly limits on gaming time. Use timers or apps to help monitor your playing time and keep it within a healthy range.
• Take regular breaks: Plan short breaks during gaming sessions to rest your mind and body. Consider using techniques like the “Pomodoro” method (gaming for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break).
• Engage in other activities: Balance your life by exploring hobbies or interests outside of gaming, like sports, creative activities, or spending time with loved ones.
• Seek professional support: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you address the root causes of gaming addiction and manage your behaviour in a healthier way.

For social networking:

• Limit screen time: Set boundaries on the amount of time you spend on social media each day. Consider using apps that track or restrict screen time.
• Turn off notifications: Disabling notifications can help reduce the constant temptation to check your social media apps.
• Engage mindfully: Be intentional with how and when you engage on social media. Focus on meaningful interactions and limit mindless scrolling.
• Schedule offline time: Plan regular breaks or offline days to disconnect from social media and focus on real-world activities and relationships.

How we can help

If you or someone you know is struggling with internet gaming or social networking, we are here to help. Our services offer support, counselling, and resources to help you manage your online habits and improve your overall well-being. Whether you're seeking help with gaming addiction, social media-related anxiety, or just want to set healthier boundaries, we can provide the guidance and tools you need to regain control.