What Is Internet/Gaming Addiction?
Internet and gaming addiction encompasses compulsive, problematic use of the internet, social media, video games, or other digital technologies that leads to significant impairment in daily functioning. The World Health Organization recognized gaming disorder as a formal diagnosis in the ICD-11, acknowledging the growing body of evidence that excessive digital engagement can produce addiction-like neurological changes including dopamine dysregulation, tolerance, and withdrawal.
At Trust SoCal, we treat internet and gaming addiction using the same evidence-based approaches that have proven effective for substance use disorders. Our clinical team understands that digital addiction often masks underlying issues—depression, anxiety, social phobia, ADHD, or trauma—that must be addressed for recovery to succeed. Our JCAHO-accredited programs in Fountain Valley, California, provide structured environments where clients can disconnect from problematic digital behaviors while developing healthier coping strategies and rebuilding real-world relationships and skills.