After working with teenagers and young adults that are struggling with internet and gaming addiction for eleven years, ReSTART recognizes that internet and video game addiction does not happen in a vacuum and will always accompany other mental health struggles. Often these struggles include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma to name a few. Constantly ReSTART is confronted with the statement “yes my client wrestles with video game addiction, but they also have anxiety”. ReSTART has found that mental health struggles will always accompany tech addiction. When working on internet and video game addiction, it is crucial to address and work on those underlying issues WHILE working on their dependence on technology and gaming. If the focus of treatment is just on the anxiety and depression, or if the focus is just on their relationship with technology, a large piece of the puzzle is being overlooked and that will impact the client’s ability to have sustainable growth after treatment.
ReSTART is the premier program in the country when it comes to issues of internet and video game addiction. They are celebrating their 11th year as the pioneers of the industry, creating the model for treatment and supporting teenagers and young adults with this struggle while others in the field were viewing excessive gaming as simply a coping strategy, or even a healthy outlet. ReSTART was able to recognize the issue and provide help to a population that had nowhere to turn and was unable to get, not only the support, but the understanding and validation that was necessary for healing. ReSTART’s services include intensive programs for adolescents and young adults, as well as outpatient and life coaching services.
By focusing on the underlying issues alongside the lack of balance with technology, ReSTART is able to create and foster substantial growth in their clients. Yes, the gaming or tech use is a coping strategy of anxiety and depression, but it is also a cause of the anxiety and depression. These issues are intertwined and they impact each other. Treating these struggles concurrently allows the client to heal as a whole, without missing something that will continue to intensify symptoms of anxiety and depression.
about ReSTART
Headquartered in Fall City, Washington, reSTART is a leading advocate of healthy sustainable digital media use (internet, VR, and videogames) for people and the planet. ReSTART offers staffed residential care for youth (13-17) and life sharing retreats for adults (ages 18-30), along with independent living support.