Detox Center Opening For Video Game Addicts

Posted on Jun 10, 2006

From the BBC

The center is opening in Amsterdam. Surreally, some players’ withdrawal symptoms include shaking and sweating when they look at a computer console.

AP:

An addiction center is opening Europe’s first detox clinic for video game addicts, offering in-house treatment for people who can’t leave their joysticks alone.

Video games may look innocent, but they can be as addictive as gambling or drugs — and just as hard to kick, says Keith Bakker, director of Amsterdam-based Smith & Jones Addiction Consultants.

Bakker already has treated 20 video game addicts, aged 13 to 30, since January. Some show withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking and sweating, when they look at a computer console.

His detox program begins in July. It will run four to eight weeks, and will include therapy sessions, wilderness excursions, healthy lifestyle workshops and possibly medication.

Research into video gaming is still in its infancy....

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