How to Avoid Getting Addicted to Computer Games

Colorful graphics, challenging situations and multiple levels of play are a few of the features that make computer games enjoyable and potentially hazardous. See the warning signs and take steps before you become addicted. Prevent your fun pastime from turning into a dangerous obsession.

Instructions

1. Realize the classic signs of video game addiction and seek help if you're obsessed with playing, thinking about gaming while participating in other activities, lying about the amount of time you spend playing or playing to make yourself forget about stressful "real life" problems.

2. Fill your life with other fulfilling pastimes like sports, exercise, reading or writing, for example. Take up the real-life version of a game like joining a chess club rather than playing video game chess.

3. List the activities you need to accomplish each day, such as work, school, homework, housework or taking care of pets. Only allow yourself to play once you've completed all of the other tasks.

4. Set an alarm or ask a member of your family to alert you after a set period. Immediately move on to another activity when the time is up. Consider scheduling a few days a week in which you don't play at all.

5. Ask family members to let you know if they feel your gaming has gotten out of hand. Have them play the games with you to be more social and stop for the day when they're ready to move onto another activity.

6. Rent or share potentially addictive computer games with friends. This way you'll have to take a break from them.