Mental and Physical Health Impacts

Mental and physical health is a subject that is often touched on when dealing with video games and their effects on people. “Game addiction” is the term given to a proposed form of psychological addiction composed of a compulsive use of computer and video games, most notably MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games). Many individuals deny the existence of video game addiction, though a counter-argument can link video game addiction to behavioral addiction.

There are several physical health-related issues that video games can bring up. This includes, but is not limited to: carpal tunnel syndrome, sleep disturbances, back and neck aches, headaches, dry eyes, and failure to eat regularly or neglect personal hygiene.

Other symptoms include:

- For Children
** Most of non-school hours are spent on the computer or playing video games.
** Falling asleep in school.
** Not keeping up with assignments.
** Worsening grades.
** Choosing to use the computer or play video games, rather than see friends.
** Dropping out of other social groups (clubs or sports).

- For Adults
** Computer or video game use is characterized by intense feelings of pleasure and guilt.
** Obsessing and pre-occupied about being on the computer, even when not connected.
** Hours playing video games or on the computer increasing, seriously disrupting family, social or even work life.
** May incur large phone or credit bills for on-line services.
** Can't control computer or video game use.
** Fantasy life on-line replaces emotional life with partner.

- For Both
** Lying about computer or video game use
** Experience feelings of withdrawal, anger, or depression when not on the computer or involved with their video game.

There have even been extreme cases where individuals have died from playing Games by disregarding their own personal health just to play the game longer. Lee Seung Seop, a boiler repairman from South Korea is one such individual. He played World of Warcraft and Starcraft for fifty hours straight and eventually passed away from heart failure caused by exhaustion and dehydration.