Internet and gaming addiction in Konaev

Reviewed byNurlan Isayev, MDAddiction psychiatrist, experience 10 years · updated 8 Nov 2026

Key facts

Who provides care

a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and a psychologist; for children, with the involvement of parents

Where

outpatient appointments in Konaev, online by video call, and inpatient care for severe conditions

Duration

psychotherapy usually lasts 3–6 months, followed by maintenance sessions

Anonymity

confidential, with no registry entry, protected by medical confidentiality

When it is urgent

aggression, threats, suicidal thoughts, or refusal to eat and sleep — call 103 or 112

Outcome

control over time spent online and restored sleep, studies, work, and social life

What you should know

Definition. In ICD-11, gaming disorder has the code 6C51. The diagnosis is made if a person has lost control over gaming, gives it priority over other interests and responsibilities, and keeps playing despite negative consequences for at least 12 months. ICD-10 has no separate category for it; such conditions are classified as habit and impulse disorders. Problematic use of social media and the internet has not yet been defined as a separate diagnosis, but specialists approach it according to the same principles.

It is important to distinguish a hobby from a disorder. Spending a lot of time gaming is not an illness in itself: what matters is loss of control and harm to a person's life. Excessive gaming or endless scrolling is often a way of coping with anxiety, loneliness, depression, or difficulties at school or work. That is why at Narcology 24, help for internet and gaming addiction in Konaev begins with an assessment by a psychiatrist, who checks whether another disorder lies behind the behavior, and then a psychotherapist joins the process.

Signs of Internet and Gaming Addiction

• the person cannot limit their time gaming or on social media, even though they try
• gaming or the phone crowds out studies, work, sleep, meals, and meeting people
• when access is restricted, irritability, aggression, or anxiety appear
• gaming continues through the night, the sleep schedule is disrupted, and daytime drowsiness has appeared
• the person hides or downplays how much time they actually spend online
• significant spending on in-game purchases, loot boxes, and donations
• grades, work performance, and interest in offline activities have declined

If two or three points apply, it is worth seeing a doctor. Phone advice is free and confidential. If life is at risk, call 103 or 112.

Why Gaming and Internet Addiction Develops

Video games and social media are built on reinforcement mechanisms: rewards, levels, notifications, an endless feed, and random wins in loot boxes. They stimulate the brain's reward system and build a habit of quickly returning to the device. The risk is higher in teenagers, whose self-control systems are still maturing. The online environment is available around the clock, so the habit takes hold faster than with other forms of leisure.

Risk factors described by the WHO and clinical research include ADHD, anxiety and depressive disorders, social anxiety, communication difficulties, bullying, family conflicts, loneliness, and low self-esteem. In the online world, a person can feel successful and accepted — something they lack offline. That is why simply switching off the internet without addressing the underlying causes often leads to conflicts and a quick return to the old behavior.

How we help

Myths and facts

How a home visit works

1. Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
2. The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
3. Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
4. A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
5. Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.

Prices in Konaev

The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.

Where to get help

“Internet and gaming addiction” in Konaev is available 24/7, including weekends. Home visits: all city districts and nearby settlements. For appointments, Narcology 24 has two branches: Building 28, Microdistrict 5, Konaev and 19 Bayterekova St., office 34, Konaev. If you live elsewhere in Almaty Region, call us and we'll advise the fastest way to get help.

Confidential and private

in Konaev our doctor can come in ordinary clothes in an unmarked car. Treatment documents are given only to the patient. If you need a certificate or sick note, this is discussed separately and only at your request.

Questions and answers