Doctors have long viewed computer addiction as a condition that may require treatment. It has been added to the International Classification of Diseases as a recognized concern. The big question remains: how many patients exist in Russia?
Families of affected individuals often seek help from specialists. The typical profile is a young male, though girls are not rare. Adolescence is the most common period for this issue, as personal development is still underway. The likelihood of this problem varies with age and social circumstances, shaping overall quality of life.
Experts note that countries with lower life quality tend to show higher risks of computer addiction.
— It seems counterintuitive that nations with fewer computers and weaker internet access would have higher addiction rates. Why does this happen?
— A global study titled Prevalence of Internet Addiction and Quality of Real Life examined cases from 31 countries across seven regions. The meta-analysis estimated a worldwide prevalence of about 6 percent. The highest rate appeared in the Middle East, near 11 percent, while Northern and Western Europe showed around 2.6 percent.
— Is this figure among all people or only among those who have computers?
— It concerns those who have computers and constant internet access.
— Two percent feels high, while ten percent sounds alarming.
— The data is quite old, and with the internet’s expansion, current numbers could be higher. The African region was not adequately explored in that analysis.
Research in Asia suggests a prevalence around 25 percent. Comparisons were made between the risk of developing psychopathology, such as depression and sleep disorders, in individuals with computer addiction versus those without gambling issues. The findings show a higher occurrence of psychopathology among those with computer addiction.
Why do more people develop addiction in places with limited internet and computer use?
— In these settings, virtual life offers a sense of achievement, fulfillment, and dream realization that real life may not provide.
China serves as a notable example where attention to computer addiction led to many rehabilitation centers and regulatory limits on online time for youth. Platforms require real usernames and mobile numbers upon registration, and age checks are common. This reflects an active effort to curb adolescent addiction.
How much time are Chinese teenagers allowed to play?
— Authorities restrict children to three hours per week of gameplay. Online sessions are possible only during specific hours, such as evenings on weekends and holidays.
In Russia, there have been cases of suicide linked to parental denial of access to games. Is this approach justified in response to addiction?
— The intent is to protect young people and prevent addiction, particularly since several cases with serious outcomes have emerged. The response aims to limit risk during critical developmental periods.
— Is computer addiction simply about gaming?
— There is also addiction tied to social networks. Some people constantly refresh feeds, wander the internet in search of information, and may lose track of meaningful activities while scrolling.
— Why is this harmful? How does it differ from reading a book, once thought to be a harmless pastime?
— Any form of excessive online activity can influence later life, mental health, social skills and physical well-being. Reading that enriches work, study, or hobbies is a different matter; aimless online time is not the same as purposeful learning.
Have clinicians treated such patients?
— Yes. Group sessions are common for those with computer addiction and for others who struggle with gambling problems. These sessions focus on shared experiences and coping strategies.
Are these groups large?
— Typically five to ten participants. They are arranged after clinical assessment by age and type of addiction. The approach uses group psychotherapy to address similar issues collectively.
Is there a parallel study with anonymous groups for other addictions?
— Anonymous groups for players exist, led by individuals who have recovered over time. This is separate from clinical work, which is led by qualified therapists. The therapy session usually lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours weekly, combining discussion and guided activities. Group dialogue remains central to progress.
What is a typical Russian case?
— The pattern often starts in adolescence: school performance declines, past interests fade, friendships diminish. Relatives frequently seek help because the person is overwhelmed by gaming and cannot recognize the problem themselves. Distinguishing addiction remains challenging for the patient.
Do mothers seek help often? What do they report?
— They note excessive computer use, disrupted sleep and meals, skipped school, and a near disappearance of social life.
— Do girls ever develop computer game addiction?
— Girls are less common, roughly one for every ten boys. Older individuals also seek help, but not beyond the age of about thirty. Generational attitudes toward technology in the country can vary, and future trends may shift as the population ages.
— For gambling addicts who bet money, do relatives also try to intervene?
— Yes. Large debts and loans can appear, and unlike computer addiction, some individuals may seek help themselves and admit the problem.
— What does a typical gambling addict look like?
— The profile can be diverse, including women, older adults, and people with good means. No single stereotype fits all cases. Ludomania has long been recognized in ICD editions, and treatment can begin even when the latest classification has yet to be fully integrated in practice. Therapy often incorporates interventions that address both thought patterns and behavior.
How is gambling addiction treated?
— Psychotherapy, especially group psychotherapy, is highly effective. Medication is rarely required for this condition. Group sessions create a mirror where patients observe peers who are progressing, which reinforces personal motivation. This is a cornerstone of successful recovery.
Why does group therapy help?
— Seeing others with similar struggles helps patients recognize their own dependence, gain support, and learn from shared experiences. Group settings are particularly powerful for addiction recovery.
Are there support networks for relatives of gamblers in Russia?
— Yes. There are avenues to understand a loved one who starts to gamble or bet, along with Gambler Anonymous communities. These groups are available across districts and are free to join, with many people turning to them for guidance.
Do support groups issue rewards when someone stays away from the game for a long period?
— Some programs include recognition and reward mechanisms. Ongoing supervision by a facilitator helps sustain progress and accountability. This structure supports the journey to recovery.
Why not simply take a pill for addiction?
— The path to change requires behavioral and cognitive work; a pill cannot alter thoughts and habits on its own.
Where do people stand now with games and internet use?
— Modern games are designed to be highly engaging. The key is to set boundaries for playtime. If gaming time keeps increasing, that signals a developing addiction. A shift toward therapy should be considered when the user notices growing comfort and immersion in the virtual world.