Everquest Addiction
Many video games, especially massively multiplayer online roleplaying games (MMORPGs) give people a feeling of godlike power and progress rapidly from a diverting hobby into a serious addiction. Addiction to a game like Everquest can start as innocuously as downloading a free trial of the game, but addicts can see their lives spiral out of control as their online gaming fix becomes the single most controlling influence in their lives.
Everquest is a hugely successful online RPG which has been running for many years and has captured the imaginations of many millions of players worldwide. Set in large and detailed fantasy world, it draws players into adventures, online battles and intricate dungeon raiding quests. Many people will sit alone in their rooms for many hours at a time, leaving rarely – if at all – to eat, drink or take care of other bodily functions. Sleep deprivation is common.
Symptoms of Everquest Addiction
If you are concerned about the behaviour of someone you care about who may be suffering from an addiction to Everquest?
- Do they seem happy or content while playing Everquest but become angry or upset if they have to stop?
- Are they constantly talking about or distracted by Everquest even during other things like work or family time?
- Do they seem to spend every free moment they have going online to play Everquest?
- If you ask what they have been doing recently do they change the subject or try to “laugh off” their time spend playing Everquest?
- Have you ever seen them getting up or still playing Everquest at odd hours of the day, even in the middle of the night?
Everquest was one of the first online RPGs to be widely recognised as addictive. Some fans jokingly refer to it as “Never Rest” or “Ever Crack” and many psychologists have condemned the highly addictive nature of its gameplay. While it is possible for people to enjoy Everquest without developing an addiction there is a significant risk amongst those who spend many hours playing. Although the monthly cost of the game is low and can even be free, addiction to Everquest can destroy a person’s work and family life by consuming enormous volumes of their time and cause them to neglect more important aspects of their everyday life, even up to such basic necessities as eating and bathing.
If you or someone you care about is having trouble breaking out of an addictive playing pattern with video games that you used to control but which now seem to control you, call our free advice line today on 08000 886 686 in complete confidence to see how we can help you get back on track.