Excessive Gaming Screening Tool (EGST)

The Excessive Gaming Screening Tool (EGST) is a 20-item questionnaire designed to help identify patterns of excessive gaming behavior. This tool assesses the frequency of gaming habits that might interfere with daily responsibilities, relationships, and overall well-being. Answering each question as accurately as possible will provide insights into your gaming habits and whether they may be indicative of problematic gaming behavior.

Question	Not Applicable	Rarely	Occasionally	Frequently	Often	Always
1. How often do you find that you stay online longer than you intended?
2. Do you skip meals or sleep to continue gaming?
3. Do you find it difficult to stop gaming even if you know you should?
4. Do you play video games as a way to escape from real-life problems?
5. Has gaming interfered with your work or school obligations?
6. Do you feel irritable or restless when unable to play?
7. Have you lost interest in other activities due to gaming?
8. Do you frequently think about gaming when you’re not playing?
9. Has gaming negatively impacted your relationships?
10. Do you feel guilty or ashamed about how much you play?
11. Have you tried to cut down on gaming without success?
12. Do you prioritize gaming over personal hygiene?
13. Have you ignored responsibilities due to gaming?
14. Do you feel a loss of control over your gaming habits?
15. Has gaming caused you to feel socially isolated?
16. Do you experience physical discomfort from prolonged gaming?
17. Has gaming affected your ability to manage stress?
18. Have you experienced financial consequences from gaming?
19. Do you lie about the amount of time you spend gaming?
20. Do you feel anxious when unable to play games?

Understanding the Excessive Gaming Screening Tool (EGST)

The EGST is a valuable tool to assess one’s relationship with gaming and identify potential excessive gaming behaviors. Frequent gaming can be a healthy hobby, but excessive use that interferes with daily life may indicate a problem. By completing the EGST, individuals gain insights into how gaming may impact their personal, social, and professional lives, helping them recognize behaviors that could benefit from adjustment or support.

Interpreting Your EGST Score

A higher EGST score suggests a stronger likelihood of gaming-related issues. Scores in the lower range typically indicate that gaming has minimal impact on daily functioning. However, as scores increase, so does the potential impact on one’s responsibilities, health, and relationships. While the EGST does not provide a clinical diagnosis, it highlights areas of concern that may benefit from further attention.

Balancing Gaming with Daily Life

For those concerned about gaming’s impact on their lives, finding a balance between gaming and other responsibilities is essential. Establishing boundaries, such as setting time limits or planning breaks, can help maintain healthy habits. Engaging in alternative activities, fostering in-person connections, and practicing self-care can also contribute to a balanced lifestyle, reducing the risk of excessive gaming behaviors.

Seeking Support for Gaming-Related Issues

If gaming negatively impacts your life and attempts to cut back are challenging, seeking professional support can provide valuable insights and strategies. Mental health professionals can help address underlying issues and provide techniques to manage gaming behaviors. Taking steps to address gaming-related issues can improve overall well-being and contribute to a healthier relationship with gaming.