H OLGA,
I quit gaming for almost a week now. :)
My sister introduced me to a iPhone App called "Elavate". Its a brain training app that uses game-like study methods.
I downloaded it, but than my no game policy kicked in. I want to check in with OLGA and see what your thoughts on it would be?
Thank you,
Paul
Hi Paul,
Congratulations on almost a week game-free!
I'm not familiar with that app but I imagine that if your no-game policy is on red alert, there is a good reason. The addict brain is very sneaky. Mine was often looking for a back-door method to get a fix, especially at the start. I'd suggest getting rid of the app.
Game-like? I would steer clear. My personal rule is if it is entertainment (or at least not a necessary task) and it's on a screen, it's dangerous.
It's your choice if you want to check it out and know for sure. You won't get banned or anything.
I just wanted to applaud the instinct to check in about an unknown source of games first. I think that shows how much you already value your recovery.
As far as if it is a game or not trust your gut.
We will be here for you either way!
Congratulations on your first week game-free!
My personal experience was that I found "brain training" and "educational" games just as addictive as other kinds. Once my "gotta keep getting points because that makes me feel better about myself" instinct kicked in, I couldn't stop. So I'd recommend staying away. You can live just fine without it, right?
"She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it)." --Lewis Carroll
Be very careful! This is my answer in one of my presentations. I am posting video for sake of time rather than typing what I've already said in the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Li_R_FZo0x8
Andrew P. Doan, MPH, MD, PhD
My Gaming Addiction Videos on YouTube: YouTube.com/@DrAndrewDoan
*The views expressed are of the author's and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of the U.S. Navy, DHA or Department of Defense.