A single yes to one question isn't necessarily indicative of a problem - it's the combination (for the DSM proposed criteria it's 5 or more of 9) that creates the pattern and may show a problem. These questions are from the Gentile Scale of Internet Gaming Disorder (published in the APA) with a few adjustments based on other research (such as King's paper on Tolerance.)
It's certainly a valid concern and something I think is always worth being in the discussion. Personally the way we've navigated this is making sure you don't (need) any of the paid programs to succeed - all of the help and more is available either for free on youtube or with peer support on the forums. The paid programs are only a curated version of the content with a few bonuses like extra worksheets.
Yes, WoW is a tough one to leave behind. Hindsight, the game is a psychological rollercoaster, with high downs and even higher ups.
I think for the most part -- other than the game turning into crap -- it was the feeling of degradation, and I think this comes with age. And it helped that during my breaks from the game I actually got to live life, and have meaningful experiences that further fueled my decision.*
*: I don't like the word decision here as it implies forms of hatred/anger, which I don't believe is the case in my situation. Since it happened naturally, I don't have feelings of guilt or regret.
I don't think decision implies hostility. It's possible and maybe even healthier to take a Marie Kondo / Ariana Grande approach to things like this. Thank Warcraft for the good times, but now you're moving on.
Hi HN! I am a former video game addict who searched for help online and found none. When I shared my story in a blog post I heard from thousands of others asking for help, and decided to create a community for all of us to support each other: Game Quitters.
We have hundreds of resources, inspiring stories, free tools to find new hobbies, and community support. 99% of the website is free with a few reasonable paid programs with structured step-by-step guides and additional bonuses.
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According to HN guideline, you shouldn't comment about flagging a submission.
Escapism is a big part of it, and also the heightened level of stimulation (immersion) you get from games. Overall games fulfill our emotional needs (to escape, to socialize, to see measurable progress, and to feel a sense of purpose) much better (seamlessly) and easier than 'real life', which is why you can find yourself gaming more and more and more. The level of safety and control is also a big part of it.
Anyways if you're looking for help we have a ton of support for you on the site. Happy to answer any questions you have.
Thanks for reading. Gaming is a very common substitute for social interaction - for me as someone with social anxiety it was easier to just stay home and 'socialize' online then to go out and meet other people, but that only left me more isolated and depressed. Getting out and interacting with other people has helped me more since I've quit.
