Adverse effects of video games are likely to apply to a small subgroup of gamers (Griffiths, 2009). Some
specialist addiction clinics focus on either total abstinence from video games or on changing gaming
behaviours and educating players, so that good behaviours can be adhered to. Both types of programs
increase social skills and aim to replace excessive time spent playing with social activities. They also include
personal therapy to address depression and anxiety, and teach time management skills that help players to
control gaming behaviours by reducing time spent playing (Griffiths & Meredith, 2009). Several online
support groups for addicted gamers, which are sometimes based on gambling addiction, are available.
However, one of the most successful methods to manage and cure gaming addiction is Cognitive
Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT has been successfully employed to treat compulsive disorders, substance
abuse, and eating disorders. In CBT, patients are taught to monitor their thoughts and identify those that
trigger addictive feelings and actions. The treatment usually includes 12 weekly sessions. Following the
identification of thoughts that trigger addictive behaviours and cognitive distortions, patients learn to
develop coping and problem-solving skills, and participate to support groups to correct addictive behaviours
and prevent relapse. A study conducted by Young (2007) showed how CBT, applied to 114 patients suffering
from internet addiction, could help to manage addition.