The ICD-11 includes a gaming disorder

gaming disorder

Video game addiction (VGA), also known as gaming disorder or internet gaming disorder, is generally defined as the problematic, compulsive use of video games that results in significant impairment to an individual's ability to function in various life domains over a prolonged period of time.

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, while the DSM-5 does not recognize problems with gaming as a distinct disorder. However, it does acknowledge it warrants additional clinical research and study.

Is gaming considered a disorder?

In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) added gaming disorder as a disease in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). The ICD is a collection of medical conditions and diseases that is used by health professionals to make diagnoses and treatment plans.

Is excessive gaming a mental illness?

Video game addiction is a mental health disorder, World Health Organization says. The WHO calls gaming addiction "a pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behavior" so severe it "takes precedence over other life interests".