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February 7, 2026
Gaming as emotional escape? Experts warn lonely children face higher addiction risk
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Gaming addiction often signals deeper distress
Dr Anitha Chandra, Consultant – Psychiatry, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru says lonely or anxious children are more likely to turn to gaming to escape emotional pain.
“Games can feel safe because they offer control, rewards, and distraction from real-life stress. For some children, gaming becomes a place where they feel successful or accepted, especially if they struggle socially. When gaming turns into addiction, it often signals deeper mental health concerns like anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, or emotional neglect,” she says.
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When a child is choosing to say in the world of gaming instead of connecting with the real world, it means somewhere the emotional support is lacking. Dr Chandra says children may need emotional support, understanding, and healthy ways to cope if that’s happening.
A child with gaming addiction may find it difficult to cope with tough situations and struggle to make decisions. Children who spend too time on games may find themselves lonely, anxious, or emotionally dependent on virtual success.
Dr Anitha Chandra, Consultant – Psychiatry, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru says lonely or anxious children are more likely to turn to gaming to escape emotional pain.
“Games can feel safe because they offer control, rewards, and distraction from real-life stress. For some children, gaming becomes a place where they feel successful or accepted, especially if they struggle socially. When gaming turns into addiction, it often signals deeper mental health concerns like anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, or emotional neglect,” she says.
ALSO READ
Should children be kept off social media? Psychiatrist warns of hidden dangers of screen addiction on young minds
When a child is choosing to say in the world of gaming instead of connecting with the real world, it means somewhere the emotional support is lacking. Dr Chandra says children may need emotional support, understanding, and healthy ways to cope if that’s happening.
A child with gaming addiction may find it difficult to cope with tough situations and struggle to make decisions. Children who spend too time on games may find themselves lonely, anxious, or emotionally dependent on virtual success.
