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Gaming disorder may affect the brain like drugs

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The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released the latest edition of the International Classification of Diseases 11 (ICD-11), and one of the officially recognised conditions was gaming disorder.

The organisation said that for the first time the WHO classifies gaming disorder as a measurable addictive behaviour disorder. They added that the disorder is similar to a gambling addiction and that it may affect the brain the same way drugs do.

The condition is quite serious, and treatment, after assessment by a professional, may consist of psychological therapies and/or medication. The WHO stresses, however, that the vast majority of gamers do not have a gaming disorder, but that a small demographic may develop the condition.

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