So for a bit of background, I'm 29 and have, like many of you, been gaming since I can remember back on the Sega Mega drive.
I've graduated university and have had several jobs, without any in particular stimulating me as much as gaming does. I've even worked on the opposite side of the world, where I only used a PlayStation once over the course of a year. That time was definitely the best and most productive year of my life, where I completely grew as a person and met some amazing people. I long for the day that I can go back to feeling this way.
I live with my girlfriend of 2 years and she is amazing. She's accepted that I've gamed and never had much of a problem until recently, where my work situation has changed and I'm not doing enough to resolve it. I would be the most stupid guy on earth if I lost this girl due to a few pixels on a screen, so I knew I had to do something about it.
I found this community by Googling "do I have a gaming addiction?" The article suggested 9 signs of being an addict and I'm ashamed to say I ticked every box.
I've lost interest in things I used to enjoy (gym, playing sports etc) and have probably gained 10KGs over the past 3 years. I've used gaming as a way to relieve me from negatives moods and an escape from my mental health problems (anxiety and a lack of motivation).
The two that resonated with me the most are the lying about my gaming and the fact that I've turned down job opportunities so that I've been able to maximise my free time to gaming. I recently lost my job in June due to being unable to relocate at the current time and I'll admit I've been playing on average 10 hours per day instead of being proactive in my next job search. I've also continually lied to my gf who I live with about what I've been doing with my day, claiming to have spent the whole day applying, yet arguing with her when she wants to see proof. I've failed with 2 interviews within the past 2 months and I know that I could have been better prepared if I didn't spend as much time on the PlayStation.
Last week I finally admitted to myself and those close to me that I had a problem and I haven't switched the PlayStation on for 10 days now. I've also gone cold turkey on watching gaming related content and on games on my phone. I do feel that I'm in a better place, I'm slowly becoming more productive with my time and enjoying spending time with my gf more.
I'm going to need help and motivation from more than just her and myself, so I'm looking forward to interacting with you all who are in a similar situation. If you can resonate with my situation or just want to chat about your own journey, I'll be more than happy to offer some help.
Thanks guys.