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World of Warcraft 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, but none have attracted the same volume of media attention as World of Warcraft. Addiction to World of Warcraft (often referred to as WoW) 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.

World of Warcraft is a hugely successfull online RPG which has captured ther imaginations of many millions of players worldwide. Set in a fantasy world of enormous scope, 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 World of Warcraft Addiction

If you are concerned about the behaviour of someone you care about who may be suffering from an addiction to World of Warcraft?

• Do they seem happy or content while playing World of Warcraft but become angry or upset if they have to stop?
• Are they constantly talking about or distracted by World of Warcraft even during other things like work or family time?
• Do they seem to spend every free moment they have going online to play World of Warcraft?
• If you ask what they have been doing recently do they change the subject or try to “laugh off” their time spend playing World of Warcraft?
• Have you ever seen them getting up or still playing World of Warcraft at odd hours of the day, even in the middle of the night?

Many behavioural experts, especially amongst young people, have called World of Warcraft “the most dangerous game on the market” and even referred to it as “more addictive than crack cocaine.” While it is possible for people to enjoy World of Warcraft without developing an addiction there is a significant risk amongst those who spend many hours playing. Although the monthly cost of the game is relatively low, addiction to World of Warcraft 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.