Virtual Addiction to Video Games: Debut of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder- Case Report and Short Review of the Literature

Introduction: Addiction is a complex condition that can be caused by substance abuse or psychological disorders related to behaviors such as gambling, food, sex, or internet gaming. A person with addiction may experience problems in inhibiting impulsivity and delaying gratification.The term “internet addiction” was first used in 1995, and it can cause a loss of control, social isolation, problems in relationships and career. Internet Gaming Disorder is characterized by a repetitive and prolonged engagement in gaming that leads to a variety of cognitive and behavioral symptoms, including social withdrawal, sleep disturbances, and obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors. The physiological basis of addiction is related to the reward system in the brain, which releases dopamine in response to positive experiences. Individuals with addiction usually have problems with impulsivity and gratification, which are associated with changes in the frontal cortex. The epidemiology of internet addiction is still unclear, but it is associated with a range of personality traits.

Materials and methods: we studied PubMed database to find articles related to the subject of video game addiction in relation to obsessive-compulsive disorder, for the period 2013 - 2023. We have found a number of 17 studies, the search key being “video-games addiction - obsessive - compulsive disorders”. Also, we chose to present a case of 23-year-old male presented with psychomotor agitation, anxiety, lack of sleep, and gaming addiction (17hours/ day) in the emergency psychiatric service. The patient had no psychiatric history or chronic illnesses.

Results: The case highlights the impact of internet gaming addiction, particularly during the pandemic. The patient experienced symptoms of obsessive thoughts, social retraction, and psychotic symptoms, which are commonly associated with gaming addiction. Treatment with antipsychotic medication was effective in reducing symptoms. Further research is needed to understand the neurobiological mechanisms and risk factors associated with internet gaming addiction.

Conclussion: Addiction can stem from both substance abuse and psychological disorders, making it a complex issue. Internet gaming disorder is a specific form of addiction that involves prolonged and excessive gaming behavior. Despite ongoing debates about diagnostic criteria and a lack of population-based studies, it is clear that internet usage has dramatically increased. The case report presented in this context demonstrates the connection between addiction and mental illness, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that includes addressing underlying mental health concerns.