Authors: Christina Masklavanou; Kalliopi Triantafyllou; Thomas Paparrigopoulos; Vana Sypsa; Artemios Pehlivanidis · Research
How Does Gaming Addiction Relate to ADHD and Exercise Habits?
Research reveals important connections between gaming disorder symptoms, ADHD traits, exercise habits, and depression.
Source: Masklavanou, C., Triantafyllou, K., Paparrigopoulos, T., Sypsa, V., & Pehlivanidis, A. (2022). Internet gaming disorder, exercise and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: The role of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Psychiatriki. https://doi.org/10.22365/jpsych.2022.098
What you need to know
- People with gaming disorder symptoms tend to exercise less and show more ADHD traits
- Depression symptoms play an important role in the relationship between gaming disorder and attention problems
- Treatment should address gaming habits alongside potential ADHD symptoms and depression
Understanding Gaming Disorder
Do you ever wonder why some people struggle to control their gaming habits while others don’t? Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) affects approximately 3% of people worldwide. While gaming itself isn’t inherently problematic, some individuals develop patterns that interfere with their daily lives - like having trouble cutting back on gaming time, losing interest in other activities, or using gaming to escape negative feelings.
The Exercise Connection
The research reveals an important pattern: people who show more signs of problematic gaming tend to exercise less in their free time. This makes intuitive sense, as extended gaming sessions often mean more time being sedentary. However, the relationship appears to go both ways - getting regular exercise might help protect against developing gaming problems, while excessive gaming may lead to reduced physical activity.
The ADHD Link
One of the study’s most significant findings is that people with more gaming disorder symptoms also tend to show more ADHD-related traits, particularly problems with attention and impulse control. This suggests that individuals with ADHD characteristics may be more vulnerable to developing problematic gaming habits. The immediate rewards and stimulation that games provide might be especially appealing to those who struggle with attention and impulse regulation.
The Role of Depression
Interestingly, depression symptoms appear to be an important piece of this puzzle. The research found that depression partially explains the connection between gaming disorder symptoms and attention problems. This suggests that someone struggling with both gaming habits and attention issues may also be dealing with underlying depression that needs to be addressed.
What This Means for You
If you or someone you care about is struggling with gaming habits, consider these practical steps:
- Monitor gaming time and set reasonable limits
- Make regular exercise a priority, even if it’s just short walks
- Pay attention to signs of attention problems or depression
- Seek professional help if gaming interferes with daily life
- Look for alternative activities that provide engagement and satisfaction
Conclusions
- Gaming disorder often occurs alongside attention problems and depression symptoms
- Regular exercise may help protect against problematic gaming habits
- Treatment should take a comprehensive approach, addressing gaming habits, attention issues, and mood concerns simultaneously