How do you deal with someone's addiction...?

Question

My soon to be ex was seriously addicted to video games and it became a very large problem between us. It got to the point where if he was awake and not at work, he was playing a game and if I took it away or told him he couldn't play, he'd either go to bed or sit on the couch and get depressed. After spending two years trying to get him to not only admit his addiction but to try and combat it and sacrifice some of his game time for some us time, I gave up. It wasn't the only reason that we ended but it was part of it. My question is this. Has anyone ever been in a similar situation? How common is video game addiction and how can you contend with it?

Answer 1

yes with little kids. get it.

Answer 2

First, anything and everything can become an addiction.  

Next, you cant help anyone unless they want your help.

Beyond that...  almost all addictions are tied to depression.  Its a way of escapism, a way of not dealing with other things, a way of 'filling in holes' from other areas of life that arent being filled appropriatly.

If they want help, they need a support group, a psychologist or addiction counselor, the support of those around them (and when I say support, dont just remind him...  you have to act like its an alcoholic drying out...   its not called an addiction because its something they just like but can lay down easily...   its an addiction because you cant lay it down), and anti depressants can go a long way in helping.

Answer 3

If he doesn't get help, don't deal just get out.  

Answer 4

Video games are not his main problem. Any thing weather it be drugs, booze, cars , s*x or any number of other things that overtake your entire life are not the real problem. They are just an escape from real life.  People will indulge in such things to get away from dealing with life in real time. When you married him, did you love him or were they just words to you. Love means making sacrifices in life and giving up some of our selfish desires. Anyone can love when the sun is shinning bright but it takes an adult to love when it is tough to do so. If he does the rest of life, work, pay bills, tell you that he loves you then you have more than you realize. Is everything that you do in life I mean everything done on time and perfectly. Living with another human being is one of the hardest things that we as humans do and it also is the most rewarding. Take some serious time and think through what you are doing.

Answer 5

Huge problem now and especially in the future. Until the addicted person is ready, not much you can do because they are not willing to give it up as they do not see what the addiction is costing them (not necessarily in dollars). You will sacafrice your life if you just contend with it.

Answer 6

You can't fix your ex.  And since he's going to be your ex, this issue should no longer affect you.

If your ex wants help with his issue, there are many resources for help out in the world... he could talk with his doctor for a referral or advice.  

You can't change anyone but yourself.

Answer 7

That's a "new one on me", but, whats the difference in that and football, or other sports/activities that dominate all  free time!