Help for Video Game Addiction in Pheladelphia

Is video game addiction becoming a concern for you or someone you love? Reach out to us today or keep reading to learn how Men’s Sober House Philadelphia can support your recovery and help you regain control through compassionate, effective treatment options.

You can also call us at (267) 412-3425

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Video games have come a long way they’re fun, immersive, and for many, a great way to unwind. But for some, gaming can shift from a hobby into something that feels impossible to step away from. Studies in North America and Europe show that between 0.3% and 1% of adults may be living with a gaming addiction, and the numbers are rising as games become more immersive and accessible.
That’s why Men’s Sober House Philadelphia offers programs that support people working through behavioral addictions like excessive gaming. Our approach helps individuals understand their habits, build healthier routines, and move toward long-term emotional and mental wellness.

You can also call us at (267) 412-3425

What Does Video Game Addiction Look Like?

Video game addiction also known as Internet Gaming Disorder is a behavioral condition recognized by the World Health Organization. It’s defined by a person’s inability to control their gaming habits, leading to negative consequences in their everyday life. For younger individuals, it may interfere with emotional development. For adults, it can disrupt work, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

If you’re noticing that gaming is taking priority over things that once mattered or that you feel anxious or agitated when you’re not playing it may be time to take a closer look. With the right support, it’s absolutely possible to build a healthier relationship with technology and restore balance in your life.

Support for Gaming Addiction at Men’s Sober House Philadelphia

At Men’s Sober House Philadelphia, we’ve teamed up with trusted partners like The Heights Treatment, an outpatient facility known for its effective mental health and addiction care, to support individuals struggling with video game addiction.

While we don’t offer inpatient services, our recovery homes serve as a bridge between clinical care and everyday life. Think of us as your next step once you’ve begun therapy or outpatient treatment. We provide a safe, structured environment where you can continue to grow, stay accountable, and stay focused on your recovery goals.

We take a whole-person approach looking beyond just the behavior to understand what’s driving it. Whether you’re recovering from gaming disorder, substance use, or co-occurring mental health challenges, our goal is to help you rebuild confidence, stability, and purpose.
And unlike substance-based addictions, behavioral addictions like gaming may benefit from outpatient services, alternative therapies, and peer support. That’s why we work closely with a network of providers to make sure you have access to the resources that will work best for you all while offering a sober living space that helps you stay on track.

Men’s Sober Livings

Outpatient Treatments

Individualized Intensive Program

Men’s Sober Companions

Why Do People Get Addicted to Video Games?

What starts as a fun way to relax can sometimes turn into something harder to walk away from. Video games offer a sense of escape, reward, and accomplishment which makes them especially appealing. Over time, though, the constant feedback and gratification can create unhealthy habits that affect daily life.

At Men’s Sober House Philadelphia, we understand that video game addiction isn’t just about the games it’s about what’s happening beneath the surface. That’s why we work with trusted mental health professionals and recovery partners to help identify what’s fueling the behavior and provide a solid path toward long-term healing.

What Are the Health Risks of Video Game Addiction?

Spending too much time gaming can impact both your mind and body. When gaming becomes compulsive, it can lead to serious long-term consequences, not just for teens but for adults as well. Without proper support, excessive gaming can damage physical health, strain relationships, and trigger emotional distress.
Some common risks include:

Physical Inactivity

Sitting for hours without movement can lead to poor posture, weight gain, and an increased risk of chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Many also experience repetitive strain injuries, especially in the hands and wrists.

Difficulty Concentrating

Fast-paced, stimulating games can affect focus and attention span. Kids may struggle in school, while adults might notice their job performance slipping. For those already managing substance use, this kind of distraction can complicate recovery.

Increased Aggression

Some games focus heavily on violence and competition. While not everyone is affected the same way, younger players may be more sensitive to these themes potentially leading to aggression or irritability. Setting limits and encouraging healthy game choices can make a difference.

How Do You Know If Someone Has a Gaming Addiction?

Like any behavioral addiction, video game addiction often shows up through emotional and physical changes. Knowing what to look for can help you or someone you care about take that important first step toward getting help.

Emotional Signs:

Irritability or Restlessness when not gaming
Isolation from friends, family, and usual activities
Preoccupation with games, even when not playing

Physical Symptoms

Migraines from screen exposure and lack of sleep
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from repetitive hand movements
Fatigue from late-night gaming and skipped rest

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Video Game Addiction?

When left untreated, video game addiction can lead to a range of negative outcomes physically, emotionally, and financially. People might skip meals, lose sleep, or spend beyond their means. Over time, relationships can break down, and symptoms like anxiety or depression may take hold.

At Men’s Sober House Philadelphia, we encourage individuals to seek help before these effects take root. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances for a full recovery.

How Can You Overcome Video Game Addiction?

Recovery starts with awareness. If you’re concerned that gaming is taking over your life, there are ways to take back control.
Start with simple changes:
Set time limits for gaming
Try new activities like sports, music, or creative hobbies
Establish a healthy daily routine

If these steps aren’t enough, don’t hesitate to seek help. Treatment options like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been shown to help people reframe obsessive thinking and build healthier habits. For individuals dealing with additional challenges like anxiety or substance use dual diagnosis treatment can address both issues at once.

At Men’s Sober House Philadelphia, we also offer sober mentoring and structured recovery housing to help individuals stay grounded and supported as they navigate these changes.

How to Get Help for Video Game Addiction

Catching the signs early can prevent gaming addiction from becoming more serious. Talking to a licensed therapist or addiction specialist can help uncover the root causes and develop a realistic, personal recovery plan.
In addition to individual therapy, group counseling and peer support programs can offer encouragement, accountability, and community. These tools make a real difference especially when gaming addiction is paired with other mental health concerns like depression or trauma.
Family support is also key. Open conversations and compassionate involvement can help loved ones feel less alone in their struggles. For younger individuals, specialized programs like adolescent mentoring and youth-focused therapy can help teach life skills, emotional regulation, and resilience.

Is There Video Game Addiction Treatment Near Me?

Overcoming a gaming addiction isn’t easy but you don’t have to do it alone. At Men’s Sober House Philadelphia, we believe everyone deserves the chance to take back control of their life with the right support system behind them.
While our main focus is supporting individuals in the Philadelphia area, we also partner with a trusted network of recovery specialists and treatment centers across the country. Whether you’re local or live outside the city, we can help guide you toward the care you need.

National Support, Local Care
For those in need of more intensive or specialized treatment for video game addiction, we can provide referrals to leading programs like The Heights Treatment, which offers individualized care plans, evidence-based therapies, and modern recovery tools tailored to each person’s journey. These partnerships allow us to connect our residents with mental health professionals and resources no matter where they are.
A Recovery Community That Stays With You
At Men’s Sober House Philadelphia, you’re not just a client you’re part of a supportive recovery community. Our team works with compassion and purpose, helping each person build a structured, meaningful life free from compulsive behaviors.
Whether you’re managing video game addiction or facing other mental health or substance-related challenges, we provide the environment, peer support, and resources you need to move forward with confidence.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with gaming addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. Call Men’s Sober House Philadelphia today at(267) 412-3425 or fill out our contact form to learn more about how our recovery community can help you take the next step forward.