Expansion pack

Game On or Game Over?
An Introduction to Video Game Addiction

Learn to identify signs, understand underlying mechanisms, assess impact, and develop prevention/intervention strategies. Equip yourself to address and support individuals struggling with video game addiction
Write your awesome label here.
COURSE OVERVIEW
This introductory course on video game addiction is crafted for individuals interested in understanding this modern challenge, without the need for a background in mental health. Participants will be guided through the fundamental concepts of video game addiction, including its causes, symptoms, and impact on individuals and society. The course provides an accessible overview of how video game addiction develops, its differences from other types of addiction, and basic strategies for managing and addressing it in everyday contexts. By the end of this course, attendees will have a solid foundation in recognizing video game addiction and be better prepared to support friends, family members, or others who might be struggling with this issue.

Learning Objectives

  • Identify the signs and symptoms of video game addiction, and be able to distinguish between moderate and problematic gaming behavior.
  • Evaluate the impact of video game addiction on personal and social well-being, including relationships, academic/work performance, and mental health.
  • Examine the psychological and physiological mechanisms behind video game addiction, including the role of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain.
  • Develop strategies for preventing or overcoming video game addiction, including setting healthy boundaries, practicing self-care, and seeking professional support if necessary.

 HG Institute is approved by the organizations listed below to provide accredited Continuing Education (CE) hours.

We encourage you to check with your credentialing body or state board to ensure our courses meet your specific licensing or renewal requirements. Acceptance may vary by jurisdiction.
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE?

This course is ideal for:

  • Mental health clinicians working with clients experiencing technology addiction
  • Psychologists and psychiatrists interested in digital mental health
  • Therapists and counselors seeking to expand their treatment capabilities
  • Healthcare professionals working with youth and young adults

Instructors

Dr. Alok Kanojia, MD, MPH

Dr. Alok Kanojia (Dr. K) is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and the founder of Healthy Gamer and HG Institute (HGI). Recognized globally as a leading voice in digital mental health and video game addiction, Dr. K blends clinical expertise with deep insight into the mental health needs of digital natives. His experience spans academic research, policy, and clinical care—ranging from Harvard’s residential addiction treatment programs to training over 600 peer support professionals in resilience practices. At HGI, Dr. K pioneers innovative, interdisciplinary solutions for the next generation of care.

Alexandra Waxer, LCSW-S

Alexandra Waxer is the Director of HG Institute (HGI), where she leads initiatives that bridge mental health, technology, and professional development. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor with expertise in adolescent mental health, Alexandra’s work focuses on suicide prevention, anxiety, and depression in digitally connected youth. At HGI, she designs continuing education and collaborative care models that unite clinicians, coaches, and peer supporters to meet the needs of a tech-driven generation. Outside of work, Alex reads a lot of fantasy and sci-fi and has an ever-growing collection of half-finished craft projects.