How To Know If Your Child Is Not Mentally Well From Excessive Gaming
Gaming has become an increasingly popular form of entertainment for children and adults alike. While gaming can have benefits for children, such as promoting cognitive skills and social interaction, for some children excessive gaming can also have negative impacts, particularly on the brain. Sometimes, excessive gaming or underlying mental health issues can manifest in noticeable signs. This article sheds light on how parents can recognise if their child is not mentally well while gaming and take appropriate action to help.
Big changes in behaviour
One of the first signs that something might be amiss is a significant change in behaviour. Pay attention if your child becomes unusually irritable, aggressive or exhibits sudden mood swings during or after gaming sessions. If they display withdrawal from family or friends, neglect personal hygiene or show a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, it could be a sign of underlying mental distress.
Sleep disturbances
Prolonged gaming sessions can disrupt a child's sleep patterns due to the stimulation and the blue light from the screen. Look out for signs of insomnia or irregular sleep schedules. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate mental health issues and affect overall well-being. If you notice your child staying up late playing games, struggling to fall asleep or experiencing frequent nightmares, it may be time to intervene and establish healthy gaming boundaries again.
School results declining
While gaming itself is not inherently harmful, excessive gaming can interfere with a child's school performance. If you observe a sudden drop in grades, increased lack of focus or declining interest in schoolwork, it is important to investigate whether excessive gaming is playing a role. A decline in academic performance can be an early indicator of mental distress or an unhealthy obsession with gaming that needs to be addressed.
Social isolation
When gaming takes precedence over real-world social interactions, it can be a red flag for potential mental health concerns. If your child consistently chooses gaming over spending time with friends or participating in extracurricular activities, it may indicate an unhealthy attachment to the virtual world. Social isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression and anxiety, all of which can significantly impact a child's mental well-being. Regular interaction with friends is crucial to children’s well-being.
Physical health issues
Excessive gaming can also take a toll on a child's physical health. Pay attention to signs of headaches, eye strain, fatigue or changes in appetite and weight. Prolonged periods of sedentary behaviour can lead to a lack of exercise, poor posture and an increased risk of obesity. These physical symptoms can be interconnected with mental health issues, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
In summary…
It can be a big help to children if parents understand and look for signs of poor mental health while gaming. By being vigilant and observant, parents can identify behavioural, emotional, academic, social and physical changes that may indicate underlying mental health concerns. Taking action early is better than later, and parents should have an open and supportive discussion with their child. Seek professional guidance from a mental health expert if any of the symptoms become a concern. Remember, fostering a balanced approach to gaming, establishing healthy gaming habits and boundaries, and promoting well-rounded activities can contribute to positive mental and emotional development of children.
