Switch Off Addiction, Power Up Life: Why Problem Online Gaming Deserves Our Attention Now

In today’s fast-paced digital world, gaming has become a central part of how young people connect, compete, and unwind. For many, it’s a fun hobby. But for others—especially children aged 12 to 16—it can turn into something much more serious: a silent, growing problem that impacts their education, relationships, and mental health.

Welcome to the world of Problem Online Gaming (POG) — an issue that can no longer be ignored.

 

Gaming Addiction Is Real — And It’s Closer Than You Think

“I just need five more minutes.”

Sound familiar? For some kids, those five minutes turn into five hours — every day. What starts as harmless fun can quickly spiral into dependency, with real-life consequences:

  • Declining school performance
  • Mood swings or aggression
  • Withdrawal from family and friends
  • Sleep disruption and poor health
  • Emotional detachment and anxiety

 

And while not every child who plays games excessively has an addiction, many are walking a fine line — and don’t even know it.

 

GameOver: A New Kind of Response to a Modern Problem

The GameOver project was created to address this challenge head-on — not by blaming games, but by empowering young people, families, and educators with the tools to recognize and prevent gaming from becoming a problem.

Whether you’re a teacher struggling to engage distracted students, a parent worried about late-night gaming sessions, or a youth worker supporting vulnerable teens, GameOver is here for you.

 

Our project focuses on three essential pillars:

  1. Awareness – Helping communities understand the risks of POG
  2. Early Detection – Introducing a practical tool for identifying early signs of gaming addiction
  3. Support & Strategy – Providing accessible resources for schools, families, and youth organizations

 

It’s Not About Quitting — It’s About Balance

GameOver isn’t an anti-gaming campaign. It’s a pro-balance, pro-wellbeing movement. Games can inspire, teach, and bring joy — when used responsibly. But when gaming begins to replace real-life connection, learning, and growth, it’s time to hit pause.

 

That’s why we say:

Pause the game. Play for life.

Switch Off Addiction. Power Up Life.

 

Ready to Join the Movement?

Whether you’re a concerned parent, a dedicated educator, or a student who wants to learn more — GameOver is your space to take back control, build digital resilience, and grow stronger together.

Още новини