35th AM (2024) - Poster Session-Connecting the Dots Systematic Screening for Coexisting Conditions in Internet Gaming Disorder

Connecting the Dots Systematic Screening for Coexisting Conditions in Internet Gaming Disorder

Pdf Summary

The discussed research explores the impact of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) on mental and physical health through a literature review conducted via Google Scholar and PubMed. The prevalence of gaming has risen globally, affecting various demographics and prompting concerns about its potential effects on well-being. The study outlines the necessity for healthcare providers to understand and recognize the connected comorbidities associated with IGD for effective patient screening.<br /><br />Key conclusions highlight that IGD can adversely affect mood and emotional stability, contributing to social withdrawal and complex psychiatric conditions. This disorder shares risk factors and similar changes in reward pathways with substance use disorders, emphasizing the importance of increasing awareness and screening frequency in individuals susceptible to IGD.<br /><br />The results shed light on specific impacts of prolonged gaming, such as alterations in brain chemistry that influence neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Individuals with existing psychiatric conditions might use gaming excessively as a coping mechanism, potentially aggravating their disorders. This can lead to further social withdrawal, attention deficits, and hinder the development of effective coping skills.<br /><br />Chronic gaming, especially late in the day, is linked to poor sleep quality through decreased total sleep time, longer sleep onset latency, and negative changes to REM and slow wave sleep patterns. Additionally, children who engage in prolonged gaming exhibit higher body mass index (BMI) years later. Some studies suggest video games can improve vision by exercising ocular muscles; however, this advantage may be negated by reports of temporary ocular issues.<br /><br />Overall, this comprehensive investigation underscores the need for systematic screening and a deeper understanding of the neurological and psychological mechanisms behind IGD, enabling the development of interventions to address IGD and associated mental health disorders.

Keywords

Internet Gaming Disorder

mental health

physical health

comorbidities

psychiatric conditions

neurotransmitters

dopamine

serotonin

sleep quality

body mass index

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