Play Smart: A Guide to Balanced Gaming

At Druzari, we're passionate about the excitement and entertainment that online gaming offers. We also strongly believe in the importance of balanced play and player well-being. Gaming should always be a fun, enjoyable activity that fits positively into your life.

This page provides tips and resources to help you maintain a healthy relationship with gaming.

Tips for Healthy Gaming Habits

  • Set Time Limits: Decide beforehand how much time you want to spend gaming each day or week, and stick to it. Use timers or alarms if helpful.
  • Set Spending Limits (if applicable): If games involve optional purchases, decide on a budget and track your spending. Never spend more than you can comfortably afford.
  • Play for Fun, Not Just to Win: Remember that the primary goal is entertainment. Celebrate wins, but don't let losses lead to frustration or chasing losses.
  • Take Regular Breaks: Step away from the screen frequently. Stand up, stretch, rest your eyes, and hydrate. Short breaks can improve focus and reduce fatigue.
  • Balance Gaming with Other Activities: Ensure gaming doesn't take priority over responsibilities like work, studies, family time, social activities, exercise, and sleep.
  • Understand the Games: Be aware of game mechanics, especially any related to chance, rewards, or in-game purchases.
  • Don't Use Gaming to Escape Problems: While gaming can be a stress reliever, avoid using it solely to cope with difficult emotions or situations.

Recognizing Signs of Problematic Play

It's important to be self-aware. Consider if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following:

  • Spending significantly more time or money on gaming than intended.
  • Neglecting personal hygiene, work, school, or household responsibilities due to gaming.
  • Feeling restless, irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to play.
  • Lying to friends or family about gaming habits.
  • Continuing to game despite negative consequences (e.g., arguments, poor performance, financial issues).
  • Losing interest in previously enjoyed hobbies or social activities.
  • Experiencing physical symptoms like eye strain, headaches, or wrist pain from excessive play.
  • Thinking about gaming constantly when doing other activities.

If several of these signs resonate, it might be time to reassess gaming habits or seek support.

Helpful Resources (UK Focused)

If you're looking for more information, advice, or support regarding healthy gaming habits or concerns about problematic play, these UK-based organizations can help:

YGAM (The Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust)

Provides educational programmes and resources aimed at preventing gaming and gambling harms among young people and offers training for professionals.

Visit YGAM

Internet Matters

Offers comprehensive advice and resources for parents and carers to help children navigate the online world safely and smartly, including specific guidance on online gaming.

Visit Internet Matters

GamCare

Leading UK provider of free information, advice, and support for anyone harmed by gambling (which can sometimes overlap with or stem from gaming issues). Operates the National Gambling Helpline.

Visit GamCare

Remember, seeking information or support is a sign of strength. Healthy gaming is achievable and helps keep the fun alive!