Escaping video game addiction: Cam Adair at TEDxBoulder

[@jonahray9164]

the truth is you can't play video games in moderation if you've been addicted to them for so long. the only way to stop the addiction is to stop all together

[@GameQuitters]

+Jonah Ray yep 100%

[@MattGarcyaDC]

Elaborate more plz

[@aminealaouielazher942]

EXACTLY

[@thewallstreetjournal5675]

it's like any other addiction. You shouldn't suggest to an alcohol or a gambling addict that they practice moderation. There different then you or me in relation to these things.

[@xkai7546]

***** man seriously -_-.... video games are a dorm of entertainment. It really depends what crap you're playing. If it's one of those mobile games that prod you, or some lame piece of shit with repetitive actions like most RPGs and Puzzlers (I said most) then no wonder you're getting 'weaker'. These are like bags of chips. Stop playing these shit as the artificially expand the experience and start playing hand made well crafted experiences like Limbo, Halo: Master Chief Collection, Grim Fandango. Play Europa Universalis III. You have 365 days in a year. And stop listening to the same music, ask people to recommend you things and stop following companies like a slave. Right now I play 1 hour a day. It's just like food, you eat shit with additives like chips fire example you easy plenty and feel like shit, whereas eating bananas and greens don't make you eat much and you feel great. The problem is what kinds of games you play. I freaking hate when people demonise video games. Play the unfinished Swan or something for shits sake. >:-( stop the dragon quests, call of duties and all that stuff (they're not bad) and pickup fire emblem fates and xcom. Broaden your horizons. Also apply these to everything and always look for new things to do and stop blaming video games. It's advertisement working it's magic and poor consumer choices. Well that's my synopsis and it pains me most people won't even think about that.

[@AGM-ts5bb]

All those who quit: That's REAL strength! All those who are trying: Be strong. Behind you 100%!👍👍

[@GameQuitters]

well said! -Cam

[@namlasyruhdwohc6340]

need to be strong

[@jarnodatema]

A. GM I have the exact opposite , every time I play video games I get a panic attack and my brother has to take over. My parents and my siblings tried to have me play games but i always ran off. So i always felt like a outcast.

[@InfinitySkyMusicYT]

I'm trying, I will get there.

[@tannerbronson118]

I just quit today. Hoping my future self will thank me

[@ShockwavesFTW]

This video honestly made me tear up. I was in your shoes at a certain point in my life and I knew I needed to quit. I managed to bring down my gaming early in high school as I made friends and didn't have as big of a hole to fill as I did. But as I lost more and more friends through normal aspects of life (graduation, drifting, going different paths), I filled that void with online FPS's and MMO's. Luckily, I fell in love with an amazing girl and quit practically cold turkey for a little over a year or so. I noticed so much improvement in my life, I was finally being the person I wanted to be. But, I got too comfortable and started playing online MMO's again. Our relationship ended shortly after. I'm not saying it was solely because of my addiction to gaming I recently got back into, but it definitely played a role. Now I'm junior and college and want to break free from this. The reasons you listed as to why we play were spot on and I'm sure that many people are partially aware of them. But they really resonated with me and were completely accurate. I had a game plan for how I was going to do it but I kept making excuses. Thanks to this video, I'm going to stick with the plan. I just wanted to say thanks for this video. People have no idea how much a lack of self control with video gaming can harm a person's life. It's an actual addiction. It isn't a joke and it's not "just a video game". If anyone is reading this, there's one crucial point that isn't mentioned in this video. If you're a video game addict and you decide to quit, you're taking a HUGE part of your daily routine and life away from you. That isn't a bad thing, it just means you're going to have a lot more time on your hands, making it easier to 'relapse'. Before you quit cold turkey, make sure you can't come back to the video game. Sell your consoles, delete your accounts, do what needs to be done, play your final games so you can have closure. But even before that is done, plan out what you want to do with your life. What are your dreams? What interests you? Is it love? Adventure? Friends? Set new goals and make sure to fill the void video games left. It's fucking hard, trust me I know. Video games make everything so easy. Achievement is measurable, friends are easy to make, and progress is clearly seen. Life isn't that simple, unfortunately. But it can be as you get better at it. If anyone managed to get this far, thank you for reading. You *can* do it. And even if you fall, you can stand back up. Thanks to the video maker and to Cam. You're helping a lot of people and doing amazing things just by making this issue more public.

[@GameQuitters]

***** Hey Omer! Cam here. Thanks for watching and leaving your thoughtful response. The talk was shared in September 2013 so one thing I wanted to share was that you're right it's missing some crucial points. I've been trying to address these in my videos on this channel since then and I think you'll get a lot of value from them. There's a lot more to this gaming problem than just the needs gaming fulfills. It's also about your identity, your social circle, and how your brain interacts with gaming. All of your advice is spot on. Thanks for sharing and hope to see you around on the forums and other places our community interacts! :)

[@ShockwavesFTW]

Game Quitters I had no clue you had all those videos on your channel while posting that comment, it seems like you were way ahead of me all along! I subscribed either way. :)

[@GameQuitters]

***** It took me awhile to get going but now I'm full steam ahead with videos and other content to help all of us out! Excited to have you as part of our community. :)

[@mrager1719]

***** I'm right there with you man.. It's funny.. I always tell my friends and family "Some people are addicted to drugs and alcohol, I'm addicted to video games". I don't think they realize how real the struggle it is.. Good job on quitting. I made the mistake of getting into LoL and back into CS when I graduated from college. Was able to quit for a few months, but currently going through a relapse.. Think I have the motivation to quit again. Thanks guys.

[@GameQuitters]

Matthew Rager Hey Matthew! Cam here. Thanks for watching and sharing your story. Relapse happens and I even relapsed once for 5 months before I quit again. The key is to recognize what's happening and learn from your relapse to help you be successful in the future. I have a video on relapse, check it out for more on that. It'll help you a lot. Happy you're a part of our community. :)

[@Ch3ls3yxxSubs]

The hardest thing about a video game addiction is that no one takes it seriously, therefore its really hard to find support. I told one of my closest friend that I was addicted to video games and she replied " but its not really an addiction" even though she knew i was playing 14 hours a day 5 days a week.

[@GameQuitters]

Ch3ls3yxxSubs Hey! Cam here. Thanks for sharing your story. I definitely know it can be hard to find people to take it seriously, but there are other options for you (linked below). I answered "why" I believe this isn't taking as seriously as other things in a post on reddit. Check it out here: www.reddit.com/r/StopGaming/comments/2vmjfn/1400_days_ama/cojnnst Resources: 1) There's a great community on reddit called StopGaming where you can find likeminded people. reddit.com/r/stopgaming 2) For support check out the videos I've created on this YT channel. They will help you out. Hope that helps!

[@adamyoung6797]

Those are rookie numbers.

[@ArtemRomanov]

Some people arent taking others illneneses like depression seriously. Just search for people who struggle like you.

[@Tanzerdragoon]

It doesn't matter if those numbers are "rookie." 14 hours times 5 days, that's 70 hours. That's more than full time work with a job, now if she actually worked full time, (and I don't know what the minimum wage is where she is at), let's say for example, $10, she could have made $700 a week, not including overtime pay. That's money to buy tickets to a concert, or explore a new city or investing; whatever.

[@jlee5490]

You don't need a friend to validate that you have a problem, if you believe it you need to work on stopping yourself. Good luck hope you're better

[@GameQuitters]

100,000 views! Wow! Thank you everyone for supporting my talk. It's so cool to see how many people it's managed to help over the years. Very grateful for each of you. - Cam

[@miloudivyne]

How have you been so far?

[@justice2912]

Starting my journey now. I dont know if ill do it but I want to

[@oscaride283]

@@justice2912 how is it going??

[@samay3156]

It 667k now :)

[@xaver6154]

Only to Get this Right. Playing Videogames is not bad, but being Addicted to them is Bad ?

[@chad8519]

I've been struggling with this for a long time and I want to break this cycle. I have developed no/little social skills and I'm paying the price at the age of 29. Sure I'm a skillful gamer but a noob in real life. Recently I've sold my consoles and began to take walks outside or going to the gym. I've managed to greet strangers in my small way and I hope it can become conversations and eventually establishing friendships. To those who are struggling, please don't give up because myself and many others are trying to change it. Don't give up!

[@CamAdair]

Hey Chad! Thanks for commenting! Check out kingpinlifestyle dot com slash lemanmanhattan. I have a ton of resources on that page for a situation like yours. Happy to help in any way possible.

[@tokyomag]

Chad P i know this is 9 months ago, but i am in a similar situation as you having recently turned 29. i am looking at avenues to correct my self destructing behavior. keep your head up man

[@CamAdair]

chris farrenkopf Thanks for commenting and reaching out via email. We're all in this together :)

[@yellow6100]

Continue making small progress -it will add up. Talk a bit ,then a bit more. Read about dating online and you will improve the skills you need. I have done it.

[@evildad5264]

Skillful gamer? Great turn that into our job. Gaming is not a drug it’s a distraction. If you make money off of it, people can’t whine that your wasting your life.

[@GameQuitters]

Hey everyone! It's Cam here. Thanks for checking out the TEDx talk, I really hope you've enjoyed it. I've decided to launch a KZbin channel to answer reader questions and share more insight into the gaming problem and how you can overcome it in yourself. Feel free to come leave a comment and I'll answer it in a video. :)

[@YohanBlake-hy7gb]

Game Quitters I’m homeschooled and I’ve been on my phone a lot, any tips?

[@serenemountain6769]

@@YohanBlake-hy7gb Have Goals, Replace your Addictions with Shores ! Help a Family Member! Help a Friend ! Search for a fulfilling Hobby! Make a list of Everything you consider to be a Time Waster ! Make another List of what you can consider productive to you and to your families benefit!

[@cgarciasanchez5759]

nobody saked you

[@rabbitxonxtoast]

Game Quitters what if the person doesn’t think their gaming is a problem? My SO today verbally said how they valued being reliable to their guild over me. They didn’t think there was anything wrong with this behavior.

[@serenemountain6769]

@@rabbitxonxtoast The only thing you can say to these people, is Can you last a month without playing a Game ? When people have any kind of addiction they cannot be a month without their drug! if anyone does not think about it , that's because he she it has sealed their fate, and it is time to move on .

[@oyinsi6285]

I had a video game addiction but I stopped by doing heroin

[@GameQuitters]

joke was made already. better luck next time

[@oyinsi6285]

really?

[@bcount1]

lol

[@XTheWickedShadowX]

Should've tried Xanax, then it wouldn't be called an addiction lol

[@andromeda7355]

Smart

[@BeatboxAllstars]

"THEY NEED INTERACTION, NOT ENTERTAINMENT"

[@cgarciasanchez5759]

and why are you appeling for attention? why cannot you let people be happy doing the things they want? why?

[@dorian7259]

Can’t have too much?

[@mayankbehl2511]

ESH DO beatbox watch GBB

[@youdontknowme9184]

Ok karen

[@virakchhay8108]

I have interaction ! But still I addicted to game 💀💀💀 !

[@Bewmbshakalaka]

I've been addicted to video games for about 6 years now. Team Fortress 2, Dota, running this channel... It takes a huge chunk out of my life. The reason I do all these is because at school I'm treated like I'm invisible, my teachers are jerks, and I'm depressed. Like you mentioned in the talk, online you are judged on how you play and how you interract with the community. I have made over 300 friends playing online who like me only for who I am, and not for some embarrasing happening or a bully. It's a place where I can be me with no judges. But becuase of this I am failing my schoolwork and and getting more depressed. I don't know why, but my addiction feels more like something glued me to my chair infront of my computer. Great talk. Thank you.

[@CamAdair]

Hey Jack! Thanks for commenting and sharing your story! This takes courage! What I would encourage you to do is to notice how much your gaming comes down to wanting to feel accepted in a community of people who get you. This is OK. So why then does it affect your schoolwork? Just like you take pride (ie: do a quality job) in your KZbin channel, you can do the same for your schoolwork. What do you feel the difference is with your channel vs. your schoolwork?

[@Mistallious]

I'm still actively struggling with my video game addiction, but I may be able to offer you a bit of advice. First things first, you need to get rid of your depression. Do not use medication, that will either cause an addiction to that medication or give you bad side effects. Tackle your depression at its source: your memories and emotions. You can start at your school counselor, it's free and they are obligated to keep your information private. Once you become a positively-thinking individual your decisions will become much easier and overall your mental health will improve. Secondly, figure out why you struggle with making friends at school, and then simply work on improving it. Do you lack conversational skills? Are you an attractive person? Do you have low-self esteem? These things can be improved upon if you seek out how to improve them. We're lucky to live in the information age where we can find the answer to any question we have. You're probably really good and persistent at the video games you play, and that's one of the reasons why your online friends respect you. It took time for you to get good and build that friend-base. The same thing can be done in real-life; it takes time and active improvement. Consider life as your "favorite" video game, and try to be the best at it.

[@CamAdair]

C K Thanks for adding your input C K! This is one of my favorite parts of any community is our ability to come together to help others!

[@Bewmbshakalaka]

Cam Adair Homework pretty much.

[@CamAdair]

Jack The Demo Guy So what I would suggest is that if homework is tough, try to find a different place to do it. Sometimes when I need to do something that is tough I take it with me to a coffee shop (Starbucks) where I won't be distracted by games or TV at home. Work on it for 2 hours and you'll make a lot of progress!

[@zyzzsdisciples6707]

I can't comprehend why people cannot understand how quitting an activity I've been doing everyday for 10+ years is a massive undertaking

[@alrahfree5797]

exactly, it's never supposed to be easy

[@bhollow711]

Yeah man, i've been playing video games for well over 25 years, deeply ingrained. It won't be easy, but it is a noble undertaking.

[@zyzzsdisciples6707]

@@bhollow711 Remember that you’re doing the right thing. That’s all that matters.

[@bizznick444joe7]

@@bhollow711 Dude I was also addicted for that many years. For me it's not a matter of quitting anymore, it's trying to find a drive to do something else now. I don't feel any desire to play anymore but I also don't have the desire to live anymore. It's sad really.

[@prototypex674]

@@bizznick444joe7 Believe me I know. I was addicted for 15 years of my life and basically had no purpose in but getting back home from school to play video games. My parents were very strict growing up so eventually they didn’t let me play any longer than 2 hours a day. I would not be able to control my addiction so I would hide the fact that I’m playing video games by staying in my room and pretending to do something else (every single day it would be the same thing on repeat). I would never play online with friends anymore because then my parents would instantly find out what I was doing (having to communicate over mic to play together). Over the years it grew into social anxiety, guilt and self-hatred from continuing to play despite my families’ wishes against it. It was for my own good to quit but I chose to continue. When you’ve been addicted to video games for so long and you suddenly quit it might feel like you’re behind in life or you tell yourself that “I can’t rewind time” but I assure you it will get better. Sooner or later you will get used to the challenges of everyday life and you’ll start appreciating even the smallest of things. Ever since I’ve quit gaming I’ve become more happy and I now have many new interests that I either didn’t have before or couldn’t explore deeper because the lack of time being addicted to video games. I started to love nature, love mountain biking, appreciate cultures around the world, listening to music (there’s honestly too much out there). I promise you will find a purpose in life just search hard for it and you’ll find true happiness 😃 Don’t ever tell yourself that you’ve “lost the desire to live”. There is so much beauty in life out there and I promise you will find it. Try to get rid of bad habits when you see them in yourself. All the little things that you get better at will add up and you will start to feel very good and proud of yourself. You’ve quit a video game addiction and it takes a lot of courage and willpower to do that. Keep your head up and stay strong brother 💪

[@Dev-fj9xy]

Video game addiction sucks

[@GameQuitters]

Hoorah!

[@marksantienz3434]

+Game Quitters o shi* u are the guy on that video woahhh

[@GameQuitters]

hey hey :)

[@KiloOneK1]

i have both ,my life stopped for 3 years now , no school/social/job and i got RSI... all those years i haven't been able to be a whole month without watching porn... the best i got was 20ish days, gamming i can control more cus my hands are hurt i can't rlly play anyway....

[@Crispy_pata]

Yep!

[@Alijjose]

I uninstalled all the games on my computer and picked up a few books at chapters instead of buying skins for LoL. I'm tired of these feelings of regret, depression, disconnection and temporary escape. The worst part is that I was aware of these feelings since I would be bombarded by them constantly. Time for me to change myself..

[@GameQuitters]

Hey Romeo! Cam here. Thanks for commenting. Come join us on the forum (link in my channel), the extra support will help you a lot.

[@TheTechlogyGuy]

I've spend sooo much money on lol skins and today i hot permabaned so i fucking quit

[@GameQuitters]

This is a turning point for you. You've got this :)

[@chixenlegjo]

i play games to avoid books tho

[@sharutamonud7698]

problem is i just reinstall all of them the next day :(

[@drouphy4726]

Gamequitters seems like a cool guy, I like how he's replying to ever comment and helping people.

[@GameQuitters]

+Andrew Thomson Thanks Andrew!

[@GameQuitters]

+manny m lol

[@jabbathehot8418]

Cut it off! Save your xbox!

[@blackfire1471]

@@GameQuitters it seems you're cool person from comments I read, nice to meet ya bud, finally someone nice to people.

[@pedrozz8750]

I was addicted to video games since I can remember , Took me 2 years to try and get out of it . since i quit i lost 25kg , traveled and lived abroad in 3 countries and keep evolving as a person , I hope you all find your way , some people can manage but I know for me I had to cut off the thing i loved the most . You have to cut it out , otherwise its impossible , I'll always love gaming but I cannot have it in my life .

[@jujuraffe3732]

Great job! Keep going! I’m trying to quit but its been difficult

[@jupitereuropa-e3w]

When your addicted once you'll never be able again to enjoy video games in moderate quantities.

[@gracielamontenegro1333]

@@jupitereuropa-e3w that's true...

[@philpapa3783]

This!!!! "I'll always love gaming but I cannot have it in my life ." Sad but true!

[@carrotpotato0]

Well said, special the last paragraph "but I cannot have it in my life" If you want to have daily routines that involve social activities and even something so basic as having your stuff and Damm life organized, one can't abuse gaming as usual other ways it consumes you and you end up bad. I myself have a big problem right now and the only thing that helps is 1. Having daily minimum basics that you can archive or isn't that hard to archive (example task A, 8 min, Task B 20 min, Task C 15 min) 2. (when stuck in a loop) Heavy Rock + build up frustration of being stuck in a loop = helps shut down mind and break out of the loop 3. Going out as a common daily routine, 10-15 min, take some sun

[@RabaalXer0]

One of the biggest things I've noticed with my video game compulsion (I hesitate to use the term addiction) is the loss of presence in my every day life. I've played video games since I was a small child but it didn't become a compulsion until around ten years ago. Originally it began as a coping mechanism and pure escapism since I had just been forcibly uprooted and moved to a place where I knew nobody. Video games gave me a sense of presence and agency in my life, where the real world did not. Over the two years I lived in that place it was not uncommon for me to spend 10 to 16 hours a day playing video games. This is behavior pattern followed me as I moved back to my home town. I would work, then come home and spend the rest of my time playing video games. This behavior became further compounded when I loss my job due to an injury and no longer had a reason to leave the house. I would spend all day, from the moment I woke to the moment I fell asleep, playing video games. It has progressed to the point where (pardon the crassness) I can't even sit on the toilet without playing a game on my phone because I feel like it's a waste of time. Any time I get into a stressful situation I immediately want to retreat to a virtual world and escape the situation. Any time I become remotely bored I feel the strong compulsion to run to a game. This compulsion hasn't cost me anything truthfully. I lead a full life. I'm a loving husband and attentive father, but, even while spending time with my daughter, i'm thinking about video games, Googleing video games, watching videos about video games. Looking back, this loss of presence in my life has felt like it has robbed me of the most important of human currencies, time. Through my lack of presence in my life I feel that the last ten years of my life have disappeared in a blink because I just wasn't there.

[@CamAdair]

Hey! Thanks for the comment. I definitely understand your hesitation to use the word addiction. I've absolutely experienced the same level of "loss of presence" that you are experiencing. It's actually one of the main reasons why I still avoid playing games - even though I'm at a point in my path that I could play without being "addicted". I just don't feel like it encourages me to be present. What I would encourage you to do is to focus on activities that will help you experience that presence. Meditation for example would be fantastic. If the compulsion to play games comes in the form you've mentioned, experiencing situations where you have to sit through that compulsion to run and avoid would have tremendous benefit. It's like if you have a fear, instead of focusing on trying to get rid of the fear, you can focus on being more courageous, so that regardless of whether you feel fear or not, you move forward. I'd also encourage you to let go of the time you've spent playing games and focus instead on closing this chapter in your life because you have a true desire to move on. Games provided certain components to your life and they were both good and bad, but ultimately, you want to move on and sometimes that can be enough to do it. Regret is a difficult emotion to move on from, so instead appreciate the time you had to play games and commit to closing that chapter so you can start a new one. Anyways, happy to help any way I can. Hope you're having a great day!

[@kkyyee]

I'm with you there. Hope you manage to quit someday

[@이서진-i1y]

I completely feel you bro

[@emad055]

how do you feel now ? how is your life?

[@iTzAlwxyss]

Did u quit

[@Harcorwrestler]

“You’re not playing the video game, the video game is playing you”

[@sheesh8051]

My dad made me quit gaming for six months -_-

[@sheesh8051]

I’m still going to play games after 6 months lol

[@AtomAndRose]

@@sheesh8051 How's it going with that?

[@sheesh8051]

@@AtomAndRose ;(

[@sheesh8051]

@@AtomAndRose i’ve lost interest in video games

[@s0ldi3r73]

Lol I legit just looked that up word by word “how to quit video games”😂

[@KiahEnriquez-f3m]

I’m a therapist working to understand a client more and this was wonderful insight. Thank you for helping others learn through your experience.

[@Diptangshu813]

Playing Skyrim 14 hours a day. It's got to a point where I can't really do anything else, even playing another game for that matter.

[@lunaleia952]

Feels like im 10 years behind everyone else at my age because i've spent my whole youth playing video games..

[@ownage2165]

The best thing i’ve done to stop is Gym. i started lifting weights and saw progress just like video games and started getting into bodybuilding/powerlifting. 10x better then video games. when you get home from work or school, don’t sit down. Make yourself a pre workout meal, i like to make peanutbutter sandwich with banana and a bit of cinnamon. Play some Mad Tunes, Pump yourself up and Hit the gym. Even better if you have a gym buddy. i love the competition ❤️

[@GameQuitters]

Hey it's Cam, yes the gym is a great replacement.

[@ps2progamer814]

so you are a gym addict now?

[@ownage2165]

​@@ps2progamer814 yeh bro, u mirin these gainz?

[@derinok9833]

So u practically u moved from one kind of addiction to another.

[@hil449]

@@derinok9833 you are clearly a game addict trying to cope. Nppe youre wrong. You cannot spend 14 hours a the gym. After like 3hrs your body literally cant take anymore. Its phisically impossible to waste your life away at the gym like you can do with games. So even if it turns out to be an addiction its a healthy one

[@underoath257]

I'm really struggling with my video game addiction during this quarantine. I was kinda beating it back then when I broke up with my gf a few months ago by traveling more. But damn, this quarantine got the worst of me again. I play 5-8hrs a day during this pandemic! I'm 28 years old, have a supervisory job, earning well, and I'm with my family so I'm in much better situation than others, but damn, I feel horrible about it. I should be doing more productive things.

[@wuzhen10]

Same thing here! I've been addicted to video game since the quarantine. Now I think is the time to quit cold turkey. That led me to this video. Hopefully, we could all git it over with.

[@aorusaki]

Mad respect my dude. This applies so well. DON'T BE AFRAID TO SEEK OUT HELP. Even just googling or going to youtube.

[@GamingTaylor]

It's pretty silly to group all gamers as people who suffer from addiction. There's a clear difference between someone who plays video games a few hours a day compared to someone who plays 16 hours a day. I mean if the only thing on your mind from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed is a video game... there's something wrong... especially if you are just playing 1 game over and over...(speedrunners i'm calling you out) That being said, some gamers use their addiction to earn income. (like youtube, twitch, competitions, etc.) The problem is that only a handful of people ever "make it" in these very niche fields.

[@GameQuitters]

That's why I didn't group all gamers together and explicitly said that a lot of gamers play and are completely fine. But some aren't and need help. That's all. Agree with everything you said. :) -Cam

[@dannydanni402]

Games are bad for them too,but they have an incresed motivation,actual real friends and fans,money and so on,its like a job,when playing just for fun its different,doing it for money for example its achieving in a way.But still real world its the one that give you the greatest achievements and to really live,not just an illusion.

[@GamingTaylor]

That really depends on what you do for a living... millions of people do repetitive tasks working at warehouses or assembly plants for 40-60hours a week... Not really the best quality of life, and not rewarding either.

[@1mikhaelone]

and you sir, work for Blizzard or something? :D

[@RedAlert3Uprising]

You know you have to uninstall a game when you spend most of your day playing it.

[@smileandlaughs]

I know this problem. I've gone through this myself. The key is finding a passion that you can occupy your time with rather than video games. It can be something simple like going to the gym or learning to draw. If you can find a skill that you can use in the workplace that would be even better cause you'll get so absorbed in it that you'll forget about playing video games and you will reap the benefits of that skill in real world rewards.

[@countryroadstakemehome]

Just uninstalled League of legends, Fortnite and all my other games in one go. As much as I love playing them, it's taking away from me being able to learn guitar, play darts and get outside more. Hey, we might be back for some games down the track. But i'm happy cleansing that dopamine rewards system with some fresh exciting new activities in life.. and maybe a job lol.

[@Edwardikkk]

Hey! How is your progress?

[@arina4030]

nice happy gilmore pfp

[@orange_I_am]

Today I quit cold turkey after putting 3 years of 6 hours or more into gaming daily. It is an overwhelming feeling to know that such a huge part of my life is going to change. There is however no logical reason to keep playing. I am going to focus on becoming a pro concept artist, and will put all my newly liberated time into that. To whoever may be thinking about quitting, good luck, and make sure that you can look fondly upon the rest of your life, rather than a blur of sitting in front of your PC.

[@daniellap8939]

How did it go?

[@orange_I_am]

@@daniellap8939 eh not great. Got dumped and playing games helped with avoiding thoughts around that. Uninstalled everything again a month ago though, so hopefully going to manage this time.

[@dream9840]

@@orange_I_am relapse is a totally normal and expected part of any addiction, don't beat yourself up is the key. stand up and try again! hope it's going better now

[@camilleward9157]

I like how this message doesn’t come from a place of judgement, but from a place of compassion. People listen more when you make your ‘mess’ your message. I love this. Thank you for sharing.

[@graceshader4102]

My husband of 5 years has played video games without moderation his whole life. He had to quit cold turkey bc his obsession ruined many parts of our lives. But he still has the itch and now he becomes obsessive about any hobby he picks up. We’ve tried many different solutions and nothing seems to work. He hates his mind, and everyone just says “use moderation” but they don’t understand the addictive nature of the brain. I wish there were more help out there for this, I see him suffer and it’s like an invisible withdraw symptom, and he can’t find relief. He’s doing his best, but man it’s the hardest thing we’ve been through. 😢

[@tobehski]

You are a great and loving Wife, thank yo for supporting and preserving with your husband, dont give up! Gob bless you.

[@JoyJoyJ0yJoyJ0y]

I divorced my ex because of his video gaming addiction. 12+ hours per day of PC gaming

[@ripperishere7758]

He is lucky to have you, anyone would be lucky to have you.

[@jess-qe8qh]

I hope you and your husband are doing better, your husband is lucky to have a partner by his side while going through this process. It takes time but as long as he’s trying his best and has a motivating partner you both will get through this❤️

[@ohwow4377]

I’m addicted to The Sims. It’s literally a second life!!! I really need to stop.

[@GameQuitters]

yes quitting will help a lot. we have a ton of videos to help you. -Cam

[@ohwow4377]

Game Quitters Thanks. :)

[@zposhful]

Atleast get addicted to a better game

[@massimomenato]

@@zposhful Imagine being addicted to cooking mama

[@zposhful]

@@massimomenato lol wut?

[@plasebox]

the 1st time I see a genuine sincere ted talk

[@Marking_The_Way]

Dude definitely seemed genuine.

[@jonnies]

I'm a former videogaming addict. I came to realise that an average of 3-4 hours of videogaming each day (despite being fun) was becoming a total drag on my life. My way of overcoming the addiction was to quit gaming cold turkey. It was hard, but it paid off. I've relapsed a couple of times for a month or so, but in the 2+ years since quitting all areas in my life have improved drastically - be it my fitness, ability to get chicks, sexual virility, work and study ethic, engagement in the arts, social confidence, etc. Trust me, quitting is worth every moment. Don't reduce your gaming hours - be brave and simply quit altogether. It's the only way to truly keep the temptation at bay.

[@CamAdair]

Hey Jonnies! Thanks for commenting. It's so cool to hear how your life has improved since you moved on from gaming. I totally agree with you, I've seen a similar result. :) Happy to hear you're doing well, appreciate your comment.

[@23dlc]

I agree man, I love games but I feel like it's wasting my life when there are so much opportunities ahead. Also I think I should get my goals together first than games can come after

[@CamAdair]

23dlc Hey! Thanks for commenting! Setting new goals will help a lot! It's a crucial piece of all of this. It's not that games are good or bad, it's just about recognizing that you have different priorities now and there's nothing wrong with that. :)

[@jonnies]

23dlc If you're like me and the sort of person who gets easily sucked into games (i.e. goes into a gaming session intending to only play an hour or so but ends up playing all night long) then I'm afraid there's only one true option - you have to give up all gaming altogether. Even shitty 2d games on your phone. Having a straight rule against gaming is the only way you can destroy the temptation over time. But take joy because all areas of your life will gradually improve beyond recognition as you fill your gaming time with more productive and satisfying things.

[@23dlc]

Appreciate the feedback and your right, I'll play for about an hour and I will stay up all night and not get any sleep for work. Looking for new changes in my life

[@GameQuitters]

Merry Christmas everyone! Thanks to everyone who watched my TEDx talk this year. If you want to quit playing video games our community here to help. -Cam

[@amusix8386]

Hey Cam, I would just like to ask you a question. I play video games around 1 - 2 hours a day, I do all homework, I got 80% last year at school and I have around 5 in real life friends. However my parents believe I'm addicted. Any help would be fantastic thanks.

[@GameQuitters]

+Amusix Hey! If you're playing that much (around 7-14 hrs/week) and it's not having a NEGATIVE impact on your life, you should be fine. For criteria to evaluate yourself, look at the following: Pre-occupation. Do you spend a lot of time thinking about games even when you are not playing, or planning when you can play next? Withdrawal. Do you feel restless, irritable, moody, angry, anxious or sad when attempting to cut down or stop gaming, or when you are unable to play. Tolerance. Do you feel the need to play for increasing amounts of time, play more exciting games, or use more powerful equipment to get the same amount of excitement you used to get? Reduce/stop. Do you feel that you should play less, but are unable to cut back on the amount of time you spend playing games? Give up other activities. Do you lose interest in or reduce participation in other recreational activities (hobbies, meetings with friends) due to gaming? Continue despite problems. Do you continue to play games even though you are aware of negative consequences, such as not getting enough sleep, being late to school/work, spending too much money, having arguments with others, or neglecting important duties? Deceive/cover up. Do you lie to family, friends or others about how much you game, or try to keep your family or friends from knowing how much you game? Escape adverse moods. Do you game to escape from or forget about personal problems, or to relieve uncomfortable feelings such as guilt, anxiety, helplessness or depression? Risk/lose relationships/opportunities. Do you risk or lose significant relationships, or job, educational or career opportunities because of gaming?

[@amusix8386]

Game Quitters Thanks! I've been really thinking about it. However in december I started doing atheletic training twice a week, and one of the reasons why I chose to that is to spend more time outside like they intended.

[@GameQuitters]

+Amusix That's awesome. It's not that gaming is BAD, but there are a lot of other things you can do that will be more fulfilling over the long-term imo.

[@amusix8386]

Game Quitters Yeah, I've realized!

[@xxshane94xx]

I was addicted to videogames for 14/15 years due to a unstable family and being bullied nonestop... Just this year I noticed it was hazardous to my health I eventually ditched the family a year ago my sight was going really downhill I felt numbness from normal situations feeling of fatigue not wanting to speak or associate with anyone including my fiancé... the past few current weeks I've been staying away I feel reborn no stress no drama to hide away from... I feel like the old me again if you enjoy games please do it in moderation I learned that this has very negative effects on your personality and health

[@rahulvidhate23]

Deleting all my video games and planning to give all my time to studies and football. Wish me luck!

[@anoniemanoniempje4031]

How did go after 3 years? I hope you doing great and achieved your goals in life

[@rahulvidhate23]

@@anoniemanoniempje4031 Hey! I am in good shape, have a decent job and I got accepted in one of the best business schools in Germany for my masters course. So I'd say it is going pretty well 🙂

[@Cass_Ihr]

Video game addictions are mentally unstable and can really hurt a person emotionally especially when they are introverts. I known from past experience even though I'm only 14. I got addicted to Minecraft (don't judge) when I was 11, and I felt the game was a dream. I played non-stop for maybe just 3-5 hours every day. Now that may not seem like much especially to those who play 10+ hours per day, but I was heartbroken when I lost interest in the game 3 years later. I was very shaky, uncertain with decisions, and overall just broken mentally. I'm still recovering from my decision, but I've been getting better slowly but surely. So if you're a person who has been sucked into the video game community, I wish the best of luck to you. My personal recommendation is to get involved in activities outside video games, and you'll eventually just start getting the confidence to just quit video games overall.

[@GameQuitters]

Jim Norman Hey Jim. Cam here. Thanks for sharing. I definitely agree with your advice, it's spot on. Let me know if I can help at all. :)

[@simonandersson2015]

+Jim Norman Good advice from a 14 year old. Thanks :)

[@AussieRaver1996]

+Jim Norman Nice read! Your personal recommendation: "...get involved in activities outside video games..." was exactly what I did to overcome my 90+ hours/week game addiction. I never feel the NEED to play anymore for over 3 years.

[@GameQuitters]

+Jordan L. Sup Jordan! :)

[@Kiwinnit]

goodluck man, I had a similar thing. I built a youtube channel (not this one) while playing minecraft to 10k subs, although in real life I lost social skills. I empathise

[@peliparado94]

I think, as in any other discussion about addiction, it is very important to know when you're crossing the line between high consumption and addiction, or wether you should see it more like a spectrum rather a line. In my case, I've been in love with video games ever since I was 5, now I'm 24 and still play them on a daily basis, and probably have never gone more than a few days straight without playing them. I went through school with good grades most of the time (though while feeling I could always do better), have been talented and various different things such as writing, playing music, arts, etc, but never fully developing any of those talents. I completed a major in college and am about to complete a second one, I have a loving girlfriend, etc. I play about an hour every day when In studying, and more when I've got the chance, although there are periods in my life where i've played, 2, 3, 5, 10 hours a day without even realizing it. I know I coould've achieved a lot more in my life if i had dedicated all those thousands of hours to something, but at the same time, I gotten a lot of joy out of video games, I see them as a form of art and I just feel happy while playing them. However, I get depressed when I realize all the things I could've done with all that time, and end up in a sort of cycle. While I don't consider my life in any way destroyed, I do know I could achieve much more, and while I know I could achieve much more, I enjoy my time in gaming greatly. Where should the line be drawn?

[@Shenaz6]

Hey Cam, I uninstalled everything from my computer today. All 2000 hours of work removed in an instant. It was tough to do it, but truthfully now I feel free. I could never have imagined it would have such an effect, but in any case, thank you for sharing your story.

[@GameQuitters]

+CtrlAltDown Congratulations! I'm very proud of you :)

[@tubular7752]

Sell/throw away graphics card. Sell/change passwords to all your gaming accounts. Steam, origin, GOG, uplay, epic, etc. Sell/change password to something you don't know, change email addresses associated with the account to an email address you don't have access to. You can't be lenient with this stuff

[@angriestjoker]

A really nice talk. I played video games all my life and I've been able to enjoy it healthily for the most part, however there are times where it does get a little too much or when I should be focusing on other things. So I'll definitely be trying to adjust my gaming to manage it in moderation a bit more. This speech was very eye opening, well done!

[@Longspout15]

It’s honestly mind blowing how many people out there struggle with it like me. I thought I was the only one! I’ve let it control my life for so long and now I want my life back. I’m going to try new things (healthy things!) to replace video games and I guess I just have to be strong

[@austinevans-belinsky7827]

I am 14 going into grade 10 and a huuuuuuugggge gamer. I play up to 8 hours a day on different games. Here is my story: it started in grade 4 I moved halfway across the country and couldn't make any friends. My life all of a sudden sucked, then I found "Minecraft" and all my worries seemed to go away. Around grade 5 my parents realized that I played way too much so they set a time limit of 1 hour, I freaked out and fought them a lot. After about a month of fighting I realized that they were never gonna change this "limit" so I found ways around it, like the public library which has computers, my friends, sneaking and playing at midnight, etc. I kept doing this until about grade 8 when I started feeling very depressed and anxious. So the computer became a even bigger escape for me. The feelings became worse, so I fought even worse with my parents, a took a downward spiral. Then one day I got put into foster care because of the fighting. I am determined to fix this issue. THANKyou!

[@GameQuitters]

Hey, Cam here. Thanks for sharing. This can be a turning point for you. :)

[@focus7706]

Playing in moderation is impossible. If you play immersive games, they take a toll on your brain’s ability to focus. The high dopamine release makes regular things look boring and hard.

[@jlee5490]

I played less than 5 hours a day but video games were considered an addiction for me. I used it to ignore my significant other and ruined the relationship, and it killed my desire to go outside and do activities like I normally would. It also made me extremely irritable the next day after playing and felt emotionally unstable all the time. I stopped my senior year in college and got straight A's that year - never felt more motivated and focused in my life. Then I met a wonderful woman and we still date 4 years later because she was attracted to my ambition and sense of joy. I'm so glad I stopped, and I do fall back sometimes but going months without it will drastically change your motivation and outlook on life. It does help to have activities, a job, or studies you make your primary focus. Great speech and good luck to everyone changing their lives.

[@gariksgarage]

Im 14 and i played csgo dota and minecraft everyday for hours upon hours i just couldnt stop but im a fan of motorcycles so i sold my custom built pc for 750 and buying a motorcycle soon i feel free already

[@GameQuitters]

Way to go!

[@leopoldo3884]

BlueRain good for you i wish the best

[@antimageantimage3424]

BlueRain hey I play dota

[@sonofjesus1464]

DO IT SIS :D

[@subarutransmittedinfection1036]

Or a miata😂

[@voidandnon-2530]

This is the most accurate video on gaming addiction that I've seen.

[@rachelkarengreen99]

Thanks for the talk, Cam. I've been struggling with it for over 9 years now and it's screwed me over hard. I'm still working on quitting for good and doing what I always wanted to do with my life.

[@CamAdair]

Hey! Thanks for commenting! You can do it! I believe in you. :) Join us on reddit.com/r/stopgaming for a support community. There are many many others who have been able to quit as well, you're definitely able to. :)

[@Ultimate_Utopian]

What do you always wanted to do in your life?

[@lil_liamalbert]

There are so many things I want to do with my life... many of those include mastering guitar, chess, wrestling, and many other activities that I, unfortunately, could not have already done because of video games. I watched this video because I typically spend anywhere from 3 to 5 hours every single day playing video games, and I am getting to the point where I am realizing "Hey, I'm 15 years old. I have three years left of my childhood where I actually have time to get good at things." As of right now, I am currently punished for all video games and I want to take this time to learn how to not need them.

[@strictlyfunny1226]

I want stop playing it, but video games make me excited and my mom and dad had to take away my devices, every time I would get back on the games. I’m in the middle of trying to quit every time I try I become depressed, that’s why I’m trying to work on it.

[@spacewargamer4181]

You want advise?

[@Restless_Vibes27]

basically im gaming to numb my loneliness and depression and when i do well in a game or get a win it gives me self esteem and gives me this temporary mood boost and then that makes me keep playing even more to help me forget about everything and to get away

[@GameQuitters]

thanks for sharing. wishing you the best on your journey Nick.

[@Restless_Vibes27]

and ever since Fortnite came out im even worse now

[@ryanf.w3644]

I used to be a big gamer, I played for 10-16 hours playing video games in my Xbox. I'm 14 and recently diagnosed with depression and anxiety, I now have no interest in video games, but since my friends are nerds it's hard to build up a conversation with them because all they talk about is video games. I don't know if I just mentally loss interest, or if I'm just growing out of them.

[@GameQuitters]

Hey Ryan, it's good to be growing out of them now. You have a lot of other things you can do instead. Try to find some new hobbies and invite your friends to join you. You can always make some new friends too.

[@wendyg8162]

Nothing wrong with the science behind the games ... maybe try talking about that. As a parent I am glad you are seeing that likely the anxiety and depression are what is behind your wanting to game. I hope you work things out you sound like a pretty smart kid

[@rizon72]

I'd say you lost interest. Video games is something people should do for fun, but not 10-16 hours a day.

[@cgarciasanchez5759]

@@GameQuitters like eat stones

[@cgarciasanchez5759]

@@rizon72 yeah! finaly someone with a brain!!!

[@alex-rx9ci]

For me, I just become competitively obsessed. Once I start playing a game, my desire to win just completely takes over, and my brain tells me that I must absolutely improve to be the best. It’s really sad because I want to be able to play in moderation, but my brain won’t allow it.

[@bitcoinhorizon]

me and you brother. the competative aspect really gets to me which is why I do my best to stay clear of them

[@unsinkablewarship16]

The video game addiction is so real! I didn't realize how bad i was addicted til i'm at the point of losing a really great relationship. I either have to chose video games or her and i want her but how do i quit my video game addiction? I've tried so many times and so many ways but thanks to you cam and your videos of how to quit has really helped! It has related to me with my every day life for the past year and now i realize i can do more than just play my Xbox one all day. I now am trying your ways of quitting the addiction and will try my hardest to stay away from the video gaming world. Thanks Cam with your video help :) and i will continue to follow you along the way.

[@GameQuitters]

Hey Brendon. Thanks for sharing. Come check out the community on my channel. There a lot of videos and extra support for you. You can overcome this! -Cam

[@mitchellroot9738]

Hey Cam, so I stumbled onto your website and this video last night and it all made sense to me. The biggest things for me are that when I play video games, I feel like I'm wasting time and like you said in the article, games make you stagnant in development. As of yesterday, I was playing anywhere from 3-12 hours a day and I'm going to quit cold turkey. Those 4 points you mentioned are legit, I think the problem is more so competitive online gaming for me. I enjoy the challenge, and the social aspect of it. Instead I could challenge myself with sports or socialize with people face-to-face. Thank you so much for the article and video. I think they are going to change my life. To give you an idea of how inspired you made me to quit, I've never even commented on a youtube video before. Keep up the good work inspiring people to quit!

[@Marking_The_Way]

I played video-games for over 20 years. Now I'm 4 years sober. One reason I played was because "what else is there to do"? I knew I could hypothetically do anything, but where to begin? How much effort would it take? It was overwhelming. Gaming was an easy option and super-rewarding. If you're reading this, I've been there and would love to help out anyone looking to break free 🙂

[@alexnegz]

honestly I don't have a problem with someone liking video games as long as they also have their grasp on reality because you can be a gamer and have a job at the same time and that's not a problem I've had countless girls come up to me and tell me that their man is playing a video game and they're tired of it so I always ask him does he have a job does he pay his bills and if they responded with yes then I would just tell them what is the problem I mean if I were a girl and I had a boyfriend I would rather have my boyfriend be at home playing video games then be at a club talking to some other girl plus I'd rather have someone be a video game addict than be a drug addict or an alcoholic but that's just my opinion

[@GameQuitters]

+Alexis Negron Hi Alexis. I support that. If someone is able to game and be healthy, that's fine by me. :)

[@EP-pg3xs]

I would just limit your hours a day. Like 1-2 hours a day and that's it. If it's just a match based game it's easy. Mmorpgs are no longer popular most people play match based games that last 20m a match or less.

[@barcode_artist]

What you describe is what people mostly calling a hobby. If someone doing something only for fun (etc.) and can easily done it in moderation (if you need to focus on real stuff - just don't absorb in your hobby) that's basically a hobby. Someone going on cycling for a hour a day, or playing soccer (football in eu) from time to time. That's just fun. But I even know people who do that kind of activities and already in their 30s have couple surgery on theirs knees because from time to time tend to drift over from real problems to playing soccer with friends/alone or cycle a bit longer everyday. But I find that kind of addiction more easily to break that video games, because VG more accessible and you basically occupied your mind - while, for example, when cycle you procced some emotions and problems.

[@CPS42069]

@@barcode_artist Yeah agree. This also not only limit to gaming but anything else really.

[@maddispear4421]

My dad's ADDICTED and it's making me depressed. he never stops. He doesn't hang out with me anymore and doesn't answer when I talk to him cause of his headphones. He plays constantly

[@GameQuitters]

Sorry to hear that. We have a ton of resources that can help on our channel -Cam

[@ujjwalsilwal1175]

what a cool dad if i were u i would play along with them

[@salmoresa7847]

One of the biggest factors I decided for myself in order to start quitting was that I was able to get my head around the idea of what it was like before I played video games, I didn't have any obligations what so ever to play them and I knew that playing these games weren't going to benefit me in the long-term much like an education would.

[@GameQuitters]

Salmoresa Hey! Cam here. Thanks for commenting. I'm happy to hear you were able to take this step, it's a really important one that you'll look back on in a few years and be so happy you made it. :)

[@GameQuitters]

@ CJ Mick - Hey! I can't reply directly (your G+ privacy settings) but happy to hear you don't have a problem with moderation. Thanks for watching also. For your friend, definitely the best thing you can do is help him get out of the house (skating is perfect) so he's less tempted to play. Maybe come up with some new goals for skating you can do together. I always found new goals helped me a lot.

[@annn2989]

Thank you so much for bringing the harm of video game up, and share your experience! Gaming addiction is pandemic

[@OrhanOctavian]

how does eating a cold turkey make you stop playing videogames?

[@GameQuitters]

haha

[@danv9427]

Game Quitters How old were you when you quit video game?

[@GameQuitters]

Around 20, then I relapsed at 22 and quit forever!

[@MafiosoDon21]

Game Quitters but I quit video game are so fucking fun bro.. I mean "addiction"? Really ? Naw games are totally fun asf

[@OxuStudio2]

@@GameQuitters Funny, I'm 22 and also considering it currently

[@Ranchcreekrecovery]

Very inspiring talk about recovering from video game addiction... hopefully, it's not just substance abuse that gets widely addressed soon.

[@GameQuitters]

Ranch Creek Recovery Hi! Cam here. Thanks for sharing your feedback. I'd love to come by the center sometime. I'll be back in California this fall. @camerondare on Twitter.

[@tigerex777]

I stopped playing games about 5 months ago and I never looked back. I never felt so free and happy. I don't miss it at all and when I sometimes by accident see kids playing games on youtube I feel this feeling of asphyxiation. Now I spend time studying, reading the Bible, working full time, taking photographs, learning to play the piano again and exercising; it's awesome.

[@CamAdair]

Hey Daniel, thanks for commenting! I'm happy to hear you've been able to move on from gaming and turn it into a positive step forward in your life. Thanks for sharing your story for others, it will inspire them!

[@dutchpuke1633]

I wasnt addicted but i was way to much into gaming, its just wasting time folks! i didnt quit gaming but you should definitly regulate it. This is precious time your using wich you could be spending in going to the gym or studying.

[@delirium2k9]

Gaming took so much out of my life if I could go back in time I would never have picked up that ps3 controller

[@Whoismicahh]

Same

[@tuffdude7795]

Did you have fun doing it? Then it's not a waste of time if so. If it negatively affected your life than I can understand looking back in disgust.

[@serenemountain6769]

@@tuffdude7795 Imagine your self loosing a girl friend, or the time that you wasted by not relating to your family and suddenly, they began to die of old age one by one ! and you sadly regret all that wasted time, that we were not there for them ! Or Parents that are addicted, that give more importance to games, then to raise their own children ! ...

[@tuffdude7795]

@@serenemountain6769 I clearly said if it negatively affected your life. In that case you said then it did.

[@tuffdude7795]

@@serenemountain6769 You can have a healthy amount of time for personal hobbies and family.

[@sammariofan]

Fascinated by how light is being put on this concept. Throughout my teenage years, I was addicted to games as well. But I grew from them, what he discusses above^ (making friends, having a sense of competence, escaping). I managed to change my perspective on games and transferred everything I learned in them to real life. I am now doing what I love and I enjoy what I truely believe is helping me grow. However, I didn't make games obsolete, they are what helped me get out, how could I leave them? I play in moderation. They are good for you, just depends what you play and how much of it. Transfer everything you learn to new stages of your life and keep growing

[@GameQuitters]

Samescape Hey! Cam here. Thanks for watching. Really happy to hear you were able to transition out of it and continue to play in moderation. I definitely support this as an option. I personally just moved on to new things and don't have the same interest in games as I did before but it's just important for each of us to make that decision for ourselves. Thanks for sharing!

[@bennoreuter4393]

"I am now doing what I love and I enjoy what I truely believe is helping me grow." *Rolleyes*

[@thedude4974]

I have game addiction for about 17 years. And now I quit it. There is no one can help you to escape it , but yourself. Don't tell yourself You will take it little by little. If u want to stop it, you have to challenge your will. You have to find something els to do. For me , I choose reading novel instead of playing game for my first week quitting. And the next week I choose watching tv to quit reading novels. Then I know I am strong enough to quit all the distractions and able to target on my goals. Be strong, every day u wake up , u look in the mirror and tell yourself you did the best you can , and you are proud of yourself.everytime you want to play a little, think about how hard you be fighting it. and you almost there, hold on. Wish you all find ur way to escape the addiction.

[@GameQuitters]

+THE DUDE Hey. Cam here. Thanks for commenting and sharing your story. I definitely agree with you. :)

[@OMahony2]

spot on my friend.....I'm forwarding this excellent vid to somebody who neeeeeeds it.....

[@fistqueen2670]

I do it for the social aspect. Im forced into moderation but i believe that it is causing more problems due to me being constantly thinking about it. I do have friends irl, but unless its in school, I usually am not leaving the house and therefore only see them online. Not only that, its just that you can make friends who will only judge you on your personality due to anonymity. So therefore like many, my personality online is vastly different than in real life. Due to me being 14, I am unable to drive and I don’t have options to leave the house so video games are basically all i enjoy doing after I have been bored of other mediocre activities. There are other things I can do, its just they don’t last for long, such as practicing my instrument, exercising, reading, fishing (occasionally), but if not playing games on my computer, I end up just watching movies.

[@kokoimesch]

when u imagine those guys were bullied etc in school and now they are able to make a speech to an audiance .. maybe some ppl have to fall deep down, to rise much stronger than they could without this failing experience.. maybe not.. dont know

[@PapermilkGaming]

Really liked how you mentioned studying ins't always a problem solver. I've been told many times myself to study more and I will forget gaming but most studying and report writing is done on computers so it's really easy to get side tracked.

[@CamAdair]

Hey! Thanks for commenting. I'm glad you enjoyed that part. I think for me it's been frustrating when people are offering advice that doesn't work. It simply makes you more frustrated! :)

[@redrexix8106]

For anyone listening, please help. I am so absorbed in my gaming addiction that it's affecting my grades and relationship with my family. My behaviour is worsening and I can't quit. To my family... I am so sorry.

[@dwex8596]

Video games were designed to be addictive its not your fault or anybody elses fault.

[@masterglitch0]

hey man, 5 months in how are you doing?

[@hussienalonto]

I'm a college student and rarely go to school because of this gaming addiction and it's affecting my grades. I will try my very best to stop this addiction

[@GameQuitters]

You've got this Hussien! Come join our community. -Cam

[@taxchat]

thank you for sharing this.

[@Marking_The_Way]

Agreed! I wish more people would speak up about this. This impacted my life and I didn't feel like I had any good resources when getting sober.

[@CamAdair]

Hey Les Paul! Great to connect with you more. Thank you for your kind words - they really do mean a lot to me. To be honest when I first wrote the article I didn't think it would lead to this. I just wanted to provide an answer for people and then move on to other things. But so many emails from people like you changed all of that, so here we are! I really appreciate all of your kind words and helping spread the message. This is bigger than us, it's about the community! Have a great day!

[@DimitriBoyarski]

I love my video game addiction! Exploring awesome digital realities still rocks my boat more than most things in life. Only challenge was to keep games from taking up ALL of my free time.

[@GameQuitters]

Hi Dimitri, as long as it's not having a negative impact for you, it's all good in my books. -Cam

[@DimitriBoyarski]

Game Quitters only positive bruh! my fav space games developed a keen interest in astronomy and related sciences. Following Cid Mayer's Civilization addiction phase I went on to read countless history books. I dreamt of building my own games and learned 5 programming languages to do so. Some of my thinking and problem solving skills are far FAR better than they would have been if it wasn't for countless hours playing strategy games on insane difficulty levels. I'm even far fitter than I would have been if it wasn't for Nintendo Wii and Wii fit games. Some of my best friends are ones I met in games online ............. to name a few. Screw all the bad mojo associated with gaming, I am happy with the way I turned out and I have games to thank for that far more than shitty state education or parents who were always too busy in their struggle to make bread. Gamer 4 life!

[@satwadude3371]

How old are you?

[@masonlash275]

I used to be a kid that loved baseball basketball and football then i got an xbox and my life changed for the worse this turned into pc gaming every day for 12 hours and going days without showering i quit all of my sports i need help man i just uninstalled league of legends and am going to try to sell my computer am i going in the right direction?

[@padrinozerocool]

Sid meiers civilization games is complex and not the addicitive type :)

[@katio_o4141]

Since we're sharing our experiences: I've been in this loop hole twice this being my second time. I had a video game addiction back in 8th grade. Along with this addiction I constantly would be caught up with the soccer tournaments. I did all of this during, after and off school time. This caused my grades in science, math and history to drop. I got out of advanced science, completely missed out on my history ap class, and failed an important math exam that determined if I passed or failed the course. I realized I had wasted half of my school yr. I put the video games down and retook my math exam as a summer course leading me to score 20 points higher. That's when I decides to eliminate any video games and social media completely. Fast forward to present day. I'm 18 almost finished with my first semester at college. My addiction is back and now I'm failing science and math. Which makes it worse to add I want to major in civil engineering. With my addiction I don't see success just pure failure and restless nights. I will have to retake my courses next semester. My pocket will suffer paying for the same classes all over again. However I will start this journey of quitting in high hopes I get back on track. I will come back to let you know how it goes. It'll be tough but if I don't take action I'll be a walking zombie everywhere.

[@maticgovno6624]

how it went?

[@Sana-pu9hd]

this video made me cry a bit, because i am at the top of the addiction and i am now finding ways to stop it, im trying to put my head down in school and focus and i must say Games has affected my whole life there are good moments were it helps you but you should not be obsessed with it im starting to slowly take away my game time every day to have a better life.

[@MikeFeldmeierMD]

Absolutely, there are a lot of positives of gaming. But gaming shouldn't be more important than doing what you want to do in life. Good luck in school Joe.

[@spacewargamer4181]

@@MikeFeldmeierMD +1️⃣👍

[@Sana-pu9hd]

@@MikeFeldmeierMD thanks for your luck. I am doing good now in school, I only play on weekends and my favourite games are rocket league and Valorant. I beat the Addiction...

[@MikeFeldmeierMD]

@@Sana-pu9hd way to go. Pay attention to those around you in the future. It can feel bad enough when games block productivity/focus in school/work. It feels 10x worse when it hurts your loved ones. Glad that you found balance.

[@Waltzyy]

For some reason video games helped me get higher grades on school and helping me with my english.I started on 2011 or 2012 (i cant remember)and back then i was awful at english and now i think I'm average (i live in the Philippines and i am asian)and it also made me friendly and made me much friendlier and made me new friends

[@GameQuitters]

happy it helped you

[@serenemountain6769]

that's an exception, but mostly it does the opposite...

[@SarangiNepali]

I am about to cry...so effective :'(

[@chillgamer8376]

Reading the comments I realised alot of people play over 10 hours a day wow. I love video games but i only play 2 hours a day and sometimes dont play at all. I dont think I'm addicted I just like playing games I see it like reading a book it's just my thing

[@cgarciasanchez5759]

we need more people like you bro

[@bigbay1159]

Hobbies should stay hobbies and yeah sometimes we spend more time than we should on side hobbies but again that's still fine. But wasting ( yes wasting) that much time on most anything is never good

[@cristian_803]

I think videogames are designed to hack your will to become better at something. That's what makes them so engaging and dangerous

[@mikeswitzer985]

About 3 years ago after I added up all of my WoW, league of legends, and tf2 play time and it was nearly 2 years of my life gone (nearly 5 hours a day) I quit games totally (over the course of 10 years but still was too damn much). Best decision I ever made and more people should think about doing it as well. I started playing piano, jogging, and got really into drawing again. It will take at least a month to change your daily routine but if you really want to quit you can just like any other addiction.

[@GameQuitters]

Hi Mike, glad to hear you're doing better. -Cam

[@aboba8656]

1. Temporary escape 2. They are social 3. They are a challenge 4. Constant measurable growth Are you bored? You play games

[@Marking_The_Way]

In addition, a great temporary solution if you feel overwhelmed and lost. Gaming can be so comforting, easy, rewarding, and simple.

[@BlizzPort]

Gaming is actually great for the nervous system and for your brain. It's also best at reducing stress hormones significantly, unless you rage ingame. Reduction of stress hormones equally increases the growth hormones, which are crucial for building muscles. It also benefits your mental health (again, unless you rage ingame). So as long as you take a 1h-2h exercise a day, eat healthy food, have a stable job/income, sleep 6-7h and hang out with your friends at least 3 times a week, you can play 8h a day if you want and it will actually benefit you. Just learn not to rage.

[@uploadingjess]

I could definitely relate to some things mentioned in this video. I'm not so much addicted to video games, but to entertainment in general. Mainly KZbin can make me waste entire days. I think it has to do with escaping temporarily from my own life, as well as being part of a community. Maybe I should just stop using KZbin entirely, but that's the problem: I really want to post videos myself. I love KZbin as a creative platform and to see people making a living out of it is just really inspiring to me. I want to do this! Yet, I remain a passive consumer. Is it because this entertainment is a quick and easy way of experiencing (some) happiness? I know that I don't want to spend my time like this.

[@CamAdair]

Hey! Thanks for commenting and sharing your story with us! I definitely think it could be a lot of fun and a productive means of fulfillment to create KZbin videos yourself. But that's the key, to step into creation mode vs. consumer mode. It's easy to get caught up in consuming because it's easier. What I recommend is to start with a project. What would it look like if you were to create a 5 part video series? Start there, and then see if you like it, continue on. As you start taking more action, you'll find your default will shift to creating instead of consuming. It's important that you've identified that you don't want to continue spending your time this way. This is a pain you can use as fuel for growth! So now you know what you don't want, but what DO you want? What's going to empower you? What makes you excited? These are the things you want to also identify so when you wake up in the morning and look at your dreams and desires, you will get that instant energy. Then it's about starting small and taking easy action. Write out ideas on a sticky note, shoot your first video, it can be of anything. It's less important about the content and more about taking action. This builds momentum and BAM, you're one step closer to living in alignment with your dreams. :)

[@uploadingjess]

Thank you so much for responding, I was really hoping you would :) I actually have started projects before, but never really finished anything that I feel confident enough about to share online. But maybe I should just do it anyway and work from there. I'm going to write down some small goals now and try and get there!

[@CamAdair]

uploadingjess Hey! I always respond! This is why I do what I do, I want to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Yes, you are correct, that's exactly what you should do. The reason, is because when your ideas are in your head it's hard to tweak them, but when you get them out and online, it's easier to think about what else you want to do. For example, with a video, you'll put it up and then be like, ok, maybe I should add an introduction video, or a subscribe button. Maybe I should tweak the description, or try this other style. It gives you something to play with! So PLAY! Also, a great book I recommend for you is: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown. You'll get a lot out of it, trust me. (And it's short, 130 pages.)

[@gabriellacarpenter6312]

Cam Adair I need help please please please help me go STOP being addicted to MINECRAFT and KZbin I really need some good advice!!!!!!! It effects me doing my chores and my homework and my mom and dad get mad at me for not listing when Im on It!!!!! Oh please can I have your Sir.

[@gabriellacarpenter6312]

I ment at the end Oh please can I have your help Sir.

[@StevenHarmonGames]

NOTE: This is my personal reaction to the video, I really enjoyed this talk and I don't want to offend anyone. P.S: Video Games are great, anyone who tells you otherwise hasn't played enough. Video Games are my life and I know I'm addicted to them, because without them I'm miserable, although I don't care: Video Games are the best thing that happened to me, and I couldn't picture life without them. I know that all my progress from time and energy in games isn't real, and can be erased in an instant and I'm fine with that. Video Games are the ultimate art form, and give you the opportunity to live life how you want to; I know this isn't the easiest thing for you to hear, but maybe some people don't want to quit playing games cold turkey. Games can be very helpful in many aspects! I'm also a game designer, so I enjoy making as well as binging until passing out playing games. Soaking 100s of hours into a single game can be a little off setting at first when you look at it, but when I'm on my deathbed in my old age I wont regret playing videogames for a 1/5th of my entire life, because I enjoyed that time. Thats what it comes down too, did you enjoy your time in games.

[@RyanAtkinsC]

As an adult, you may see it as time wasted when you could be improving your station in life. Maybe not. I can't see into the future.

[@CamAdair]

Hey Steven, thank you for the comment! Sorry for the delay in my response, I was out of town on a retreat. I'm glad you enjoyed the talk and happy to discuss it further. Video games are definitely great. In my experience, and what I tried to communicate in the video is that it's not about whether the games are great or not, but whether they align with your vision of your life and are also productively helping you towards fulfilling that vision. A key point I've identified through my research is that there's a difference between having fun and being happy. Although many play video games because they are fun, that doesn't automatically imply they are happy inside. An example would be people who have commented on the original article mentioning that they are depressed but continue to play. Now of course, if that isn't you then I have no problem with people playing games. For me it's all about helping people who DON'T want to play, and believe me, there's a very real community of these people who "want" to stop and "can't. The type of stimulation you get in games can be very exciting, but prolonged exposure to this can cause you to be in a situation where every other activity in lie is "boring". This isn't because you don't enjoy other activities, it's because the stimulation is so different. In your experience, I wouldn't recommend moving on from games because it's something you enjoy, but I would certainly recommend moving towards a place where you are happy internally with or without games. Basing happiness off an external medium is a recipe for disaster. You won't regret playing games for 1/5th of your life. But you will regret being miserable for the other 4/5ths. :) Best of luck man, let me know any way I can help out.

[@CamAdair]

Ryan Atkins I definitely agree. I've learned through the years to try and avoid being too attached to any one way, and instead to remain open to the possibility that my lifestyle and interests may change over time, and that is all ok. Thanks for your comment.

[@needadoseofdumbvaccine88]

@@CamAdair Thanks for your solid comment, from a 6-years-later high school kid. A good thing can be harmful when abused or addicted to. I have struggled a lot to come to the decision to quit gaming, it has taken up too much of my time to do other things that actually of essence in life.

[@wendyg8162]

My son is 17 and has decided to forgo college in favor of playing video games for a living. He admitted he started playing them when things were stressful at home, when he was sad, or angry or bored. Now he plays them during all his free time. Heck he sometimes plays during homework. He gets sick a lot and wants to play on days he supposed to be sick. He dosn't see any problems with it but he has changed and we are scared as his parents. We did get him in to therapy, but I think he lied through the whole thing, which he admitted to me he would do to get himself out of it.

[@GameQuitters]

Hi Wendy. Sorry to hear about this and thank you for being a caring parent. It's a really difficult situation to fix but there is hope. If you message me privately I can share a few ideas for you. cam at game quitters dot com

[@okbutwhatif9905]

I've realized i had video game addiction, the thing is, it isn't as extreme as to cheat my parents to play or about time one to two hours a day and more like three on the weekend but because of the way it interacted with me. I give up easily on things when i don't see any improvement plus with overwatch, a very competitive game the "skill" is something very seductive. Add that to the fact it helped me escape my poor grades (making them even worst because i wasn't doing my homework anymore). I really realised it a few days ago because i saw the impact it had on my mind. I was only thinking about the game and how to improve and i completely stopped me from sleeping because my mind was way too occuped by it. So now i'll try my best following your advices. Geez it feels good talking about it.

[@Akings]

Who needs treatment for video games addiction? I got 2 more lives and a lot of health potions to keep me going!....

[@GameQuitters]

***** Haha! :)

[@jimbach3159]

Lol

[@yudealuntungan7937]

Yeah game is not real bruh if you die u dont respawn

[@christianramos6734]

Live to play and play to live

[@Semaj0z]

@@yudealuntungan7937 r/woooosh

[@kissaninja9700]

I have played video games my whole life. No problems

[@GameQuitters]

+Kissa Ninja Hey! Thanks for watching. Glad you don't have a problem with it. Not everyone does, but some do. :)

[@kissaninja9700]

Yeah, I hate those who complain about how bad video games are. There was another Ted talks show where this guy told how some games try to cause addiction towards the game. SRY FOR MY ENGLISH. : D

[@GameQuitters]

+Kissa Ninja Well many of games are designed intentionally so you play them more and more. For example: www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/3085/behavioral_game_design.php

[@kissaninja9700]

yup, I think thats gonna be a big problem when some people dont have anything else to do.

[@XTheWickedShadowX]

Never had an issue either, but if it gives game companies more money than them it's a DISEASE regardless of how I feel. What do I know, my feelings and decisions are irrelevant! Im suddenly a psycho now! Whoopee!

[@patrickallenpimentel3062]

All the comments are too damn long to read!

[@CamAdair]

Hey Patrick! Haha try answering them all! :P

[@patrickallenpimentel3062]

But thank you, man. You really helped me.

[@patrickallenpimentel3062]

And i dont wanna share my life cause it's gonna long!! :D

[@CamAdair]

Patrick Allen Pimentel Thanks! I'm happy to hear that! Here to help anytime. :)

[@patrickallenpimentel3062]

The problem is... I'm still lazy..

[@aaronthoming8192]

I definitely feel for those who suffer with this as an addiction. You have to be honest with yourself if you really are balancing it with your life or making excuses. That said video games helped me through a particularly rough spot in my life where I needed some escape until I was strong enough to get up again but it easily couldve become the problem. Best of luck for anyone dealing with this.

[@GameQuitters]

thanks for watching -Cam

[@plutoonpluto]

the people laughing in the audience show how much stigma surrounds this addiction. no one takes it seriously and then everyone blames the victims for not having self control. sickening...

[@jean-francoiskener6036]

Like all adictions the reason is the same: short term pleasure in exchange of long term misery

[@CamAdair]

That's great! I think exercise is a key part of being able to move on from games. It gets us out of our funk sitting around being no-energy and gets our bodies moving.

[@mathclass2548]

The truth is that this didn’t help me at all

[@michxc]

basically, its over and its all up to the parents of future children. hope this helps

[@mathclass2548]

@@michxc nope not really lmao

[@Lilz853]

My brother is addicted to games for a few years. This year, he’s going to turn into 16, and the conflicts with my parents on playing video games is getting worse. My brother was used to be one of the smart kid in class and always got 100 in mathematics. But even since he started playing games, his academic results dropped, he’s becoming more aggressive and irritated, and whenever my parents told him to stop, he will be frustrated with that. This caused arguments between him and my parents happened everyday, and it always ended up with fights and disappointment. My brother couldn’t put down his obsession with video games. He was scolded by his teachers several times in handing in the homework late, not doing his work appropriately, or not listening to teachers’ instruction. My parents are becoming irritated as well, they literally roared at each other whenever my brother is having a quarrel with my parents. As a daughter and a sister in the us family, I have totally no idea what to do with this. His friends are also one of the reason making him being so addicted into games. His friends are not studying at all, and their mindsets are very childish, which has worsen my brother’s problem because a lot of time he didn’t understand how my parents think and thought that they are harming him. My brother’s life is nearly ruined by games and technologies, and he’s clearly lacking self-management skills. What can we do?

[@pavlekovacevic5787]

Delete all his games and sell all of his accounts.also one of your family members should take their time and do some other activities with him.i recommend hiking

[@alrahfree5797]

stop his connection with his friends

[@Funwinxpixee]

can totally relate to this. He did an excellent job by pinpointing the problems at our roots which leads to these 'problems'. Deal with the problems in reality and it can be done easily once we have the power to do so. Good luck to you guys!

[@GameQuitters]

Thank you! -Cam

[@sapoenano]

Am I the only one looking for a change, this gaming life sucks and its destroying my life. I know its quarantine but id I dont stop now I will never. Please tell me there are some people looking for change.

[@Akash-ke1ce]

I'm in the same situation.. Keep faith

[@spacewargamer4181]

The final request makes no sense, is you who needs to help yourself. I am not expert, but you can ask for advise.