As hard-core video game playing becomes a mainstream pastime, medical science is discovering some disturbing side affects. Video game playing is now being looked at and treated as an addiction by an emerging field. Keith Bakker, director of Smith & Jones Addiction Consultants, stated “Video games may look innocent, but they can be as addictive as gambling or drugs, and just as hard to kick.” His agency has created the first detoxification center for videogame addicts. The center, located in the Netherlands, plans to use a 4-8 week program to help gamers beat their addictions.

As with other dependencies, videogame addicts evidence certain symptoms when going through withdrawal. Bakker has treated some 20 videogames addicts and has observed reactions such as sweats and shaking. Because scientific research into the effects of long-term habitual videogame playing is just beginning, much of this is uncharted territory. And so the experts are still arguing over the nature of the “disease.” Meanwhile, troubled gamers are already seeking help via Mr. Bakker’s agency.