Experts say a new diagnosis is needed for problem gaming.

Researchers from the University of Queensland are advocating for a new diagnostic category to be included in the World Health Organization's International Classification of Diseases (ICD) to better identify individuals with gaming-related issues.

Honorary Professor John Saunders from UQ’s National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research says that the current range of diagnoses lacks a crucial “middle ground” for gaming disorders. 

Presently, the ICD includes ‘Hazardous Gaming’ for those at risk of harm from gaming and ‘Gaming Disorder’ for those with an addiction to gaming, but there is no intermediate category.

“In the current classifications, Hazardous Gaming identifies a person at risk of developing harm from gaming, and Gaming Disorder is an addiction to gaming – but there is nothing in between,” said Professor Saunders.

The researchers have proposed the term ‘Harmful Gaming’ to fill this gap. 

This new classification would characterise a persistent pattern of gaming behaviour that adversely impacts an individual's physical or mental health. 

“A Harmful Gaming classification would help identify people who are progressing towards a more severe Gaming Disorder, and provide them with help before it’s too late,” Saunders said.

Gaming Disorder is defined as an addiction where an individual cannot control their gaming habits and prioritises it over relationships, education, and work. 

While approximately 3 per cent of gamers are diagnosed with Gaming Disorder, Saunders noted that more than twice that number would meet the criteria for a Harmful Gaming diagnosis.

“Introducing a Harmful Gaming classification would bring the diagnoses spectrum in line with substance use disorders and provide a framework for public health approaches to combat the harm it causes,” said Saunders.

Globally, more than 3 billion people are estimated to play video games regularly. 

“Gaming provides many positive experiences for people to connect and build social connections, but it’s important that it’s done in moderation,” said UQ’s Associate Professor Gary Chung Kai Chan.

“Increasing evidence has shown how addictive video gaming can be for many people, and the harm it can cause. 

“It’s crucial to be aware of the amount of time spent on gaming and ensure this is balanced out with other healthy habits to help reduce the risk of harm to our physical and mental health.”

More details are accessible here.