Keeping Video Gaming at a safe limit 

• Set time limits for play and stick to them. 

• Keep phones and other electronic devices out of the bedroom to limit playing video games into the night. 

• Embrace finding balance. Do other activities every day, including exercise. This will lower the health risks of sitting and playing for long stretches of time and impact emotional well-being as well 

Key warning signs to watch for:

 • Poor performance at school, work, or household responsibilities because of a preoccupation with video gaming 

• The need to spend more time playing video games or to play more intensely to get the same level of enjoyment 

• Inability to set limits on how much time is spent video gaming 

• Signs of irritability, anxiety, or anger when forced to stop video gaming, even for brief periods of time

• Using video games to escape stressful situations at work, school, or conflicts at home 

• Neglect of other hobbies or friendships 

• A decline in personal hygiene or grooming 

• Eye strain or migraines from frequent screen use 

• Sleep deprivation or trouble falling asleep 

• Symptoms of physical or psychological withdrawal, such as loss of appetite, agitation, or emotional outbursts if the game is taken away