Yoga may help manage Internet gaming disorder, finds study

While internet gaming remains popular among adolescents, excessive use can lead to Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). A new study by researchers from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) and the Central University of Rajasthan has found that yoga can be beneficial in managing IGD.

IGD has been associated with negative health outcomes, including increased stress, obesity, decreased academic performance and mental health issues. To address this, researchers developed a yoga module, which included physical postures, breathing exercises, pranayama and meditation.

The study published in the journal, Advances in Integrative Medicine, claimed that the strength of the module was developed in consultation with yoga experts and a psychiatrist. The study suggests that the yoga module is feasible and easy to practice among adolescents with IGD.

“To gain maximum benefits, we recommend that this module be practised at least three times a week (40 minute each session) under the supervision of a yoga expert,” the study co-authored by Manoj Sharma from the Department of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS, said.

The American Psychiatric Association has recognised IGD as a condition in need of further research. It is marked by excessive and prolonged use of Internet games, causing significant impairment or distress. More recently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has included ‘gaming disorder’ as a mental health condition.

Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to IGD due to their developmental stage and the immersive and socially interactive nature of Internet games can be enticing for adolescents, leading to excessive gaming behaviours that may result in neglect of real-life activities and responsibilities, the study said.

The researchers backed the claims stating that though various therapeutic interventions like family therapies and psychotherapy have been explored for IGD, these have shown short-term efficacy in reducing IGD symptoms and comorbid depression.

“Yoga, an ancient mind-body practice, has shown promise in managing various mental health disorders. Yoga includes yogic physical postures, breathing techniques, relaxation techniques and meditation. Unlike traditional interventions that often target isolated aspects of IGD, yoga’s holistic approach addresses the interplay between cognitive, emotional, and physiological factors,” the research said.

India