Video game addiction is a complicated disorder. It is extremely difficult to draw the line between a simple pastime that many people enjoy and a true addiction. Typically, people suffering from any addiction need more of the substance over time to reach the same level of satisfaction. They neglect their own well-being and hygiene in pursuit of the substance, and they suffer from withdrawal symptoms such as depression, anxiety and antisocial behavior.
If you or a loved one exhibits the following characteristics, you may be suffering from video game addiction:
- Increased time spent playing
- Constantly thinking about gaming, even during other activities
- Using the game to avoid facing real life problems, anxiety or depression
- Lying to cover up the amount of time spent gaming
- Irritability when trying to cut down on gaming
Recognizing Video Game Addiction
If the patient suffers from depression, is expelled from school or fired from a job and ignores personal hygiene and eating in favor of playing the game, many doctors would consider that the person is suffering from video game addiction and should investigate rehab options. Unfortunately, Assurant Health Video Game Addiction Coverage is nearly nonexistent.
Insurance Coverage
While your particular policy may include coverage depending on the policy, Assurant Health Video Game Addiction Coverage is likely to be minimal at best. However, in some states, the general policy is to cover treatment as outlined in The ASAM Criteria Treatment Criteria for Addictive, Substance-Related, and Co-Occurring Conditions. Policies that pay for either in-patient or out-patient treatment usually begin coverage at the point where recovery is unlikely if the patient does not receive interventional treatment. Generally, the patient’s physician must certify that the patient is incapable of performing basic day to day activities, lives in an unstable environment or is at risk of harming him or herself before coverage can be assured.
As with most insurance, actual coverage varies by policy, so you should always check your specific plan documents before committing to a course of treatment in a non-life threatening situation. It’s also a good idea to have an open and frank discussion with your physician about your insurance coverage. In no case is Assurant Health Video Game Addiction Coverage automatically provided, so always work with your physician and the company for preapproval of any treatment plan so you know what to expect.