New Delhi, Nov 5 A behavioural addiction clinic offering assessment and treatment for concerns related to gaming, gambling and problematic digital media use has opened in the Delhi-NCR region, with a focus on providing psychiatric and psychological care based on individual needs.
The clinic, launched by Adayu, Fortis Healthcare’s psychiatry and de-addiction hospital, is located at its facility in Sector 38, Gurugram.
The clinic was inaugurated on October 27 and will offer psychiatric and psychological assessments, multidisciplinary treatment, individual and family therapy, wherever appropriate, and lifestyle guidance. It will operate from 9 am to 10 pm, Monday to Saturday.
The World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) recognises gaming disorder and gambling disorder as disorders due to addictive behaviours. However, concerns related to digital or social media use require individual assessment and should not automatically be classified as addiction.
According to the hospital, difficulty controlling certain behaviours and continuing them despite adverse consequences can affect an individual’s sleep, emotional well-being, relationships, education and work.
Dr Bishnu Panigrahi, Group Head, Medical Strategy and Operations, Fortis Healthcare, said behavioural addictions and related concerns require careful assessment and an understanding of their impact on an individual’s daily life.
“Care may involve mental health professionals working together and, where appropriate, supporting family members. Early identification and interventions suited to individual needs can help address difficulties before they become more disruptive,” he said.
Dr Samir Parikh, Chairperson, Fortis National Mental Health Programme and Adayu, said frequent gaming or digital media use should not automatically be considered an addiction.
“The concern arises when a person experiences difficulty controlling a behaviour and continues despite significant harm or disruption to daily life. A clinical assessment considers the individual’s circumstances and the effect on their functioning before determining the appropriate support,” he said.
He added that families can play an important role in recognising concerns and supporting treatment.
(PTI News)
