title: Just one more level: Identifying and addressing internet gaming disorder within primary care.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  For most people, playing video games is a passionate leisure pursuit: a source of relaxation, fun, socialisation and culture. Moderate play has been associated with greater wellbeing and cognitive abilities in some studies. Yet, for a small subgroup, gaming can become excessive and problematic.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This article presents an overview of the world of video games and the recently proposed internet gaming disorder (IGD), as well as advice regarding relevant treatment approaches within primary care.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Similar to other addictive disorders (including problem gambling), IGD is characterised by excessive use despite negative consequences, with associated difficulties in reducing or stopping. Studies that have examined individuals with IGD have identified multiple harms, including lower psychosocial wellbeing, greater levels of psychopathology and diminished functioning. As yet, few studies have rigorously examined effective treatment options, but adapting psychological interventions used in the treatment of other addictions (eg motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural therapy) that incorporate harm minimisation approaches, and addressing underlying issues and associated problems, are recommended.
authors.forename: Dan
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Loton
authors.forename: Dan I
authors.initials: DI
authors.lastname: Lubman
mesh_terms: D001315:Australia; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D007174:Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D062405:Motivational Interviewing; D011320:Primary Health Care; D063189:Symptom Assessment; D018910:Video Games / Q000523:psychology*