Addiction to Online Gaming and Its Effects on Youth Mental Health: A Psychological Analysis and New Approaches to Treatment

Abstract

The rapid expansion of online gaming has led to a significant increase in gaming addiction, particularly among youth. This paper explores the psychological impact of excessive gaming, examining its effects on mental health, including anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and cognitive impairments. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, the study identifies key psychological mechanisms that contribute to gaming addiction, such as escapism, reward system manipulation, and compulsive behavior reinforcement. Furthermore, this paper evaluates new approaches to treatment, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), digital detox strategies, parental interventions, and emerging technological solutions such as AI-driven monitoring tools and gamified therapy models. By integrating psychological theories and realworld case studies, this study aims to provide a multidimensional perspective on online gaming addiction and propose effective interventions to mitigate its adverse effects on youth mental health.