New research reveals cognitive behavioral therapy shows promising results for internet gaming disorder
For millions of people worldwide, what starts as casual gaming can spiral into something much more serious. Internet gaming disorder affects about 6.7% of the global population, turning a fun hobby into a compulsive behavior that interferes with school, work, relationships, and daily life.
The researchers acknowledge that more work is needed to fully understand how to optimize CBT for gaming addiction. They suggest that future studies should explore which specific CBT techniques are most effective, how long treatment should last for different types of people, and whether combining CBT with other approaches might be even more beneficial.
There's also interest in adapting CBT techniques for online delivery, which could make treatment more accessible to people who might have difficulty attending in-person therapy sessions.
For the millions of people worldwide struggling with gaming addiction, this research offers genuine hope. Cognitive behavioral therapy represents a proven, practical approach to overcoming compulsive gaming behaviors and rebuilding a balanced relationship with technology.
The key findings are clear: CBT works, and it works better when it's provided intensively over a longer period. While gaming addiction is a serious condition that can significantly impact someone's life, it's also a treatable condition when approached with the right tools and professional support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gaming addiction, these research findings suggest that seeking help from a mental health professional trained in cognitive behavioral techniques could be a valuable step toward recovery. The path to healthier gaming habits is challenging but achievable, and professional support can make all the difference in that journey.
As our relationship with technology continues to evolve, understanding how to maintain healthy boundaries becomes increasingly important. This research contributes to that understanding and offers practical solutions for one of the most pressing digital health challenges of our time.
Reangsing, C., Wongchan, W., Trakooltorwong, P., Thaibandit, J., & Oerther, S. (2025). Effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on addictive symptoms in individuals with internet gaming disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research, 116425.
