News

New project tackles gaming addiction

WHILE gaming can be a fun way to spend a bit of time, for some it can cross over into addictive behaviour and a new six-week pilot program aimed at helping young people at risk gets underway at Merrylands Youth Centre (MYC) this week.

The MYC has joined forces with Cumberland Multicultural Community Services (CMCS) to offer the ‘Unplug and Play’ diversion program which was designed by Catholic Care’s Gambling Help counsellor for young people aged from 15 to 24 with a gaming addiction.
Earlier this year, the World Health Organisation classified ‘gaming disorder’ as a behavioural addiction, making it no different to alcohol and other drug addictions as a problem.
Just as with drugs or alcohol, signs of a gaming addiction can include becoming reliant on an activity such as gaming as a way to forget your problems or to relax; withdrawing from family and friends; feeling anxious, angry or depressed; and trying unsuccessfully to quit playing.
Unplug and Play will be held at the Merrylands Youth Centre from Thursday, October 24, from 4pm-6pm.
For more information call George or Seini at MYC, 9637 1535; Erick at CMCS, 9637 7600; or Jenna at Catholic Care, 8843 2530.