Establish system to prevent gaming addiction, treat addicts

What can be done to help people who are addicted to playing online games on smartphones and computers, and have difficulty leading their daily lives? Hotline consultation services must be urgently improved to establish a system that will guide people to treatment and support programs.

Many people seem to be spending more time playing games now, as the novel coronavirus pandemic forced schools to close and people to spend more time at home. Games may help relieve stress, but caution is needed regarding addiction.

The World Health Organization regards gaming disorder as a disease like alcohol and gambling addictions. Specified symptoms of gaming disorder include impaired control over the time and frequency of gaming, and the continuation of a game-centered lifestyle that severely hampers daily life activities.

Many patients with gaming disorder are minors. It is feared their physical strength and eyesight may deteriorate, and there are strong concerns over truancy and decline in their academic performance. According to a survey conducted by a Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry research team in fiscal 2017, an estimated 930,000 junior and high school students are believed to be dependent on games and the internet.

As only a short period of time has passed since the WHO recognized gaming disorder as a disease, establishing a full-fledged system to prevent and treat the condition is one task that needs to be accomplished in the future.

The hotlines for consumer affairs centers have a manual for inquiries about gambling addiction, but efforts to tackle gaming disorder have been slow. It is hoped that a system will be set up to introduce specialized medical institutions and support groups to those who seek consultations.

A major problem is the overwhelming shortage of hospitals and medical workers capable of dealing with gaming disorder.

Fewer than 100 medical institutions can provide specialized services in Japan. At the National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center, doctors’ appointments for a month fill up in 30 minutes to an hour.

The health ministry is working to create guidelines to provide treatment in an effective manner. The ministry is urged to draw up the guidelines swiftly and increase the number of medical specialists through on- the- job training. It is also important to develop core medical institutions in regional areas.

Efforts also must be made regarding education to prevent gaming addiction.

How parents handle giving their children their first smartphone is crucial. It is necessary to thoroughly inform children about the dangerous aspects of gaming and keep a close eye on them, checking for signs of change in their lives and attitude.

Many children are likely to resist words of warning from their parents, as they are unable to understand their vulnerable position. Experts and schools are urged to work together to enhance support for parents.

Game business operators also should take thorough measures to prevent people from becoming addicted to games.