How do you support your teen when gaming becomes a coping mechanism?

What’s really going on behind the screen?

Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

Parenting a teenager in today’s digital age comes with its own set of challenges. When you add family dynamics involving behavioral health issues, like a parent’s struggle with addiction, the complexities multiply. If you’ve noticed your teen diving deep into the world of gaming, you might be wondering what’s driving this behavior and how you can help.

The Virtual Escape: Why Gaming Becomes a Sanctuary

When Reality Feels Overwhelming

For many teens, gaming isn’t just a hobby — it’s a refuge. It offers a controlled environment where they can succeed, make decisions, and connect with others without the unpredictability of real life. When home feels unstable due to a parent’s repeated rehab visits or ongoing struggles, the virtual world can seem like a safer, more manageable place.

I remember working with a young man who spent every free moment immersed in online games. To his parents, it seemed like he was simply addicted to the screen. But as we delved deeper, it became clear that gaming was his way of coping with the anxiety and uncertainty at home. The game provided clear rules and achievable goals —…