GENEVA — For the first time ever, gaming addiction is set to be classed as a health issue by the World Health Organization.
Currently termed ‘gaming disorder’, the condition will be listed in a 2018 update version of the International Classification of Diseases.
A draft version of the definition, says symptoms of gaming disorder can include continuation or escalation of gaming despite negative consequences.
The addiction can also shown by the gamer exhibiting impaired control over gaming, and by more time being given to gaming to the extent that it takes precedence over other important life aspects.
These symptoms have to go on for a year for diagnosis to be assigned, but that time can be shortened depending on the severity of the symptoms.
