Many doctors are concerned about the high use of computer games by children and young people. What mental and physical problems may arise from excessive use of these games? How could these problems be reduced?

Children appear to enjoy playing video games, and while there are undoubted benefits, various negative effects stem from

this

too. Let us consider the main issues, and

then

outline possible remedies. Perhaps the major physical problem is the sedentary

lifestyle

which these games encourage, meaning that youngsters may incline to obesity or inadequate development. Added to

this

is the strain on eyesight resulting from excessive use of screens and consoles, meaning that children may suffer symptoms of poor vision. There are

also

concerns about impairment of reflexes due to the repetitive nature of the hand muscles when playing these games, and about the poor diet of convenience food which often accompanies

this

lifestyle

. The most alarming psychological impact of

such

activities is possibly the risk of addiction, meaning that children become obsessed with the games and are unable to socialise with family or peers.

This

undermines their interpersonal skills and makes them

underperform

both academically and socially. Turning to possible solutions, perhaps the immediate step would be to promote a more active

lifestyle

through exercise regimes or sports programmes which would help to detoxify the lifestyles of children affected.

This

could be done through sponsorship of sports, or

participation

Suggestion

participate

in competitive events

such

as races or matches, hopefully ameliorating the physical effects of excessive games use. Potential remedies for the danger of mental addiction may be,

firstly

, an initiative to raise awareness of the risks of the situation,

for example

through health warnings on

games packaging

Suggestion

the game's packaging

game's packaging

game packaging

or through high-profile spokespersons spreading

such

a message.

For example

, if sports champions or figureheads speak out about these dangers, the message may well get through to children. To sum up, the risks posed by excessive gaming are connected to an unhealthy

lifestyle

and the possibility of dependency on the activity. Possible answers might involve stronger education about the dangers and the health benefits of more active pursuits.