Hobbies And Interests
Instructions
Discuss the situation with your loved one. Explain your worries clearly, but be understanding and supportive rather than judgmental. Ask if there is anything you can do to help; similarly to other addictions, people addicted to video games such as "World of Warcraft" may simply be using the game a way to escape issues they feel they can't deal with.
Suggest the use of parental controls to your loved one. Although these controls are designed to be used by a parent who wants to restrict a child's playtime, they can also easily be used to restrict the amount of time your loved one spends playing the game, in order to slowly ease him into playing less.
Suggest that your loved one speak to a psychologist or counselor. Speaking with somebody whose job is to listen without judging may help your loved one unburden himself and work through his issues.
Suggest that your loved one join a support group such as On-Line Gamers Anonymous, a 12-step program designed specifically for video game addiction.
Be there for your loved one. As with any addiction, the road to recovery can be long and painful. Ensure you support your loved one every step of the way.
Set rules for behaviors that you won't accept from your loved one who is addicted to gaming. While you can be an initial source of help to someone suffering with a gaming addiction, it's important to beware of enabling behavior. For example, do not engage in behaviors that only encourage the addiction, like bringing meals to him at his computer desk.