The following is a list of common differences between someone who plays video games as a hobby and someone who plays because it’s a problem. This is an informal list and is not meant to diagnose a disorder. For a proper assessment, please seek the support of a professional.

Normal Gamer Plays video games for fun

Plays video games for fun Performs well at school or work

Performs well at school or work Engages with the family

Engages with the family Has real life friends

Has real life friends Has other hobbies and interests

Has other hobbies and interests Gaming happens in free-time

Gaming happens in free-time Mood is consistent and stable

Mood is consistent and stable No issues taking breaks from gaming

No issues taking breaks from gaming Maintains basic hygiene

Maintains basic hygiene Has a normal sleep schedule

Has a normal sleep schedule Gaming is in balance Problem Gamer Plays because they cannot stop

Plays because they cannot stop Withdrawn from school or work

Withdrawn from school or work Isolated from the family

Isolated from the family Only has internet friends

Only has internet friends Gaming is the only thing they do

Gaming is the only thing they do Life revolves around gaming

Life revolves around gaming Increased anxiety or depression

Increased anxiety or depression No amount of gaming is “enough”

No amount of gaming is “enough” Basic hygiene is a constant battle

Basic hygiene is a constant battle Stays up all night gaming

Stays up all night gaming Is defiant to limits on their gaming