Video gaming is growing in popularity, but some people take it to the extreme. They can become video game addicts.

According to videogameaddiction.org, video game addiction is a problem formed when people spend an unhealthy amount of time on video games, or computers. It affects people ranging in age from kids to adults.

Pre-teens to teens are at the highest risk for video game addiction.

Gaming is becoming more complex and compelling to more and more people. Fifteen percent of people meet the criteria for video game addiction, according to videogameaddiction.org.

Symptoms of video game addiction include: neglect of friends, family and personal hygiene; spending tons of time on computer or console; and lying to friends and/or family.

If people know someone who is showing those symptoms, they should encourage the gamer to find help.

I believe that there should be more awareness of video game addiction, and that people need to help others who are addicted to video games or computer games.

Jacob Vallier