Psychotherapy Counselling for Gaming Addiction – West Sussex
Psychotherapy counselling for gaming addiction is becoming more important across West Sussex as more people struggle to break free from excessive gaming habits. What starts as a way to relax or connect with others can quickly become overwhelming, affecting work, relationships, and mental wellbeing.
Understanding Gaming Addiction
Gaming addiction, also known as gaming disorder, is a recognised condition where someone feels unable to control their gaming habits. Even when it begins to cause harm, many find it hard to stop. Over time, it can interfere with daily routines, sleep, productivity, and emotional health.
For many, gaming is a form of escape. However, when used to avoid life’s pressures or painful emotions, it can develop into a damaging cycle that feels impossible to break without support.
Contact Us
The Workshop Little East Street,
Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9NP
Phone: (01403)217300
or (01293) 882210
Mobile: 07854602050
“I didn’t realise how much gaming had taken over my life. Therapy helped me take back control.”
— Josh, gaming addiction client at Eleos Counselling
“When I first came to Eleos, I was stuck. Gaming had become more than just a hobby — it was how I avoided everything. Stress, loneliness, even boredom. I’d tell myself ‘just one more game’, but hours would go by, and I’d feel worse than before.
In therapy, I finally had the space to be honest — without shame. We didn’t just talk about the gaming. We talked about why I needed the escape in the first place.
Week by week, things began to shift. I started recognising the patterns and finding new ways to cope. I reconnected with friends, started sleeping better, and even picked up some of the things I used to enjoy before gaming took over.
It’s still a work in progress. But now, I feel like I’m choosing my life — not escaping it.”
How do I book a session?
If you’re concerned that gaming is taking over your life—or affecting your relationships, work, or mental health—you can call or email Eleos Counselling using the details on our Contact Us page. All enquiries are treated with the utmost confidentiality.
Or, if you feel ready to take the first step, simply click the button below. You’ll be taken to our online diary, where you can book a private assessment session at a time that suits you.
We're here to walk with you
📞 Call us today: 07854602050
📧 Email us: info@eleoscounselling.com
Who Is Affected by Gaming Addiction?
Although anyone can develop a gaming problem, younger adults and teenagers are particularly at risk. Millennials—those born between 1981 and 1996—were among the first to grow up with online gaming, fast internet access, and mobile devices. As a result, they are more likely to face issues related to internet and gaming addiction.
Popular online games often include features such as:
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Daily login rewards
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Competitive rankings
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Endless quests
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In-game purchases and loot boxes
These features are designed to increase engagement. While they may enhance the gaming experience, they can also reinforce compulsive patterns of behaviour.
Why Does Gaming Become Addictive?
Unlike many offline hobbies, online games create a powerful mix of achievement, routine, and social connection. Gamers often feel a strong sense of belonging within online communities, making it difficult to log off.
When life feels stressful, lonely, or uncertain, gaming can seem like a welcome distraction. However, excessive gaming can lead to:
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Poor sleep
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Declining focus
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Reduced motivation
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Missed work or school deadlines
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Financial strain due to in-game spending
Setting boundaries and seeking help can prevent these issues from getting worse.
Signs You May Need Help
Psychotherapy counselling for gaming addiction in West Sussex can support those who identify with any of the following signs:
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Feeling anxious or irritated when unable to play
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Playing for hours without realising the time
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Ignoring responsibilities at home, school, or work
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Lying to others about how much time is spent gaming
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Using gaming to avoid emotions or real-life problems
If any of these behaviours feel familiar, speaking to a professional can help you regain clarity and control.
Why Does Gaming Become Addictive?
Unlike many offline hobbies, online games create a powerful mix of achievement, routine, and social connection. Gamers often feel a strong sense of belonging within online communities, making it difficult to log off.
When life feels stressful, lonely, or uncertain, gaming can seem like a welcome distraction. However, excessive gaming can lead to:
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Poor sleep
-
Declining focus
-
Reduced motivation
-
Missed work or school deadlines
-
Financial strain due to in-game spending
Setting boundaries and seeking help can prevent these issues from getting worse.
How Eleos Counselling in West Sussex Can Support You
At Eleos Counselling, we understand that gaming addiction isn’t about weakness or lack of discipline. It’s often linked to deeper emotional struggles such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or loneliness.
We offer psychotherapy counselling for gaming addiction that is:
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One-to-one and confidential
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Supportive and non-judgemental
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Tailored to your individual needs
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Focused on understanding what’s driving the behaviour
As proud members of Addiction Professionals, the UK’s leading body for those working with addiction, we are trained to support people struggling with compulsive behaviours, including internet and gaming addiction.
Our Approach to Recovery
Change takes time, but it is possible. With the right support, you can begin to:
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Build self-awareness and healthier coping strategies
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Improve sleep, focus, and motivation
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Reconnect with family, friends, and hobbies
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Set and maintain realistic boundaries around gaming
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Reduce stress and develop resilience
Together, we’ll explore your relationship with gaming, discover what lies beneath it, and help you move towards a life with more balance and freedom.
Why Choose Eleos Counselling?
Clients come to us because they want a space that is:
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Private, safe, and confidential
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Rooted in experience and understanding
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Free from judgement or shame
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Focused on real change and lasting results
We’ve worked with people from all walks of life—gamers, professionals, students, and parents—helping them reconnect with what truly matters. Therapy is not about taking away what you love, but helping you find a healthier way forward.
What the Media Is Saying
Across the UK, gaming addiction is making headlines. Reports have highlighted serious consequences, including financial losses, relationship breakdowns, and even links to gambling and substance misuse.
These stories reflect just how serious this issue can become when left untreated. Fortunately, more people are starting to speak out—and seek support.
Social Media and Online Communities
Online forums and platforms are full of gamers sharing their experiences of addiction. Some insist it’s just a hobby, while others admit it’s affected their life in painful ways.
These honest conversations are important. They help people feel less alone—and more empowered to take the first step toward recovery.
The Bigger Picture
Gaming addiction is about more than just time spent on a screen. It’s about what’s happening underneath—emotions, pressures, and unspoken struggles.
At Eleos Counselling, we help people understand what’s behind the behaviour. Through psychotherapy counselling for gaming addiction in West Sussex, you can start rebuilding your relationship with yourself—and life beyond the screen.
Contact Us
If gaming has taken over your life or someone you care about is struggling, we’re here to help.
Phone (landline): 01403 900079
Mobile: 07854 602050
Email: info@eleoscounselling.com
Address: Eleos Counselling, Little East Street, Billingshurst, RH14 9NP
Website: www.eleoscounselling.co.uk