Teens and video games: How much is too much?

This paid piece is sponsored by Avera Health.

It’s almost time for summer. Are you envisioning your kids hunched in front of a video console all summer?

Well, you’re not alone. Gaming is a common hobby, especially as advancements in technology make the virtual world more alluring every day.

Did you know three-quarters of all American households have at least one gamer who plays for six hours a week on average?

If you’re a parent, you may be concerned about how this screen time can affect your kids. Rest assured that video games aren’t bad. They can serve as a positive distraction.

“Gaming is a great hobby for promoting psychological resilience by serving as a coping mechanism,” explains Dylan Strand, lead behavioral tech for the Avera Addiction Care Center with Avera Behavioral Health. “Videos games are a positive outlet when used correctly. But when they are used as a constant avoidance, that’s when it becomes an issue.”

Name of the game: moderation

Like any other behavior, if done too much or incorrectly, negative consequences and side effects arise.

A problematic gaming disorder may take shape, leading to behavioral health issues. Your teen could begin to struggle with impulse control. This works just like any other uncontrollable habit, such as an addiction with gambling, food or shopping.

Is it a problem?

Start by asking some questions to determine if it’s a problem:

• Is it getting in the way of relationships, school and other hobbies?
• Are they experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome, migraines and eyestrain?
• Has the line between loving to play and having to play been crossed?
• Is it a substitute for avoiding deeper problems, like depression or strong emotions?
• Do they become upset when not playing or if the game is taken away?
• Are they often so distracted by it that they skip sleep or meals?
• Are others around them concerned about them?

Plus, there’s the amount of time spent doing it. Studies show that those with gaming disorders typically spend eight to 10 hours a day or at least 30 hours a week playing video games.

How to help your teen

Guide your child away from the obsessive thought patterns and habits, set boundaries and communicate.

Ideas for boundaries:

• Set a time limit for game play, and stick to it.
• Keep phones, video game consoles and computers out of the bedroom.
• Help them get active with exercise to counteract sitting for long stretches of time.
• Spark their interest by introducing other activities for coping.

“If a person has all these different tools in their tool bag, they can pick from a wide range of coping activities to help with different situations,” Strand said.

Remember to talk to your teen in a respectful manner. Ask questions, and really listen to what they have to say. By simply being calm, positive and encouraging, you can help open up the dialog to constructive interactions.

Avoid “you” statements, like saying, “You are playing too much and aren’t doing anything else.” This places blame, and defenses can come up real fast. Instead, use “I feel” statements, by saying things like “I feel you haven’t been spending as much time with the family, and we miss you.”

You also can seek professional help from your doctor, therapist or your child’s pediatrician.

Keep reading

• Digital health and your kids
• Ideas for summertime fun
• Health and wellness tips