Early Pregnancy Advocacy | PDF

EARLY PREGNANCY What causes teenage pregnancy? Lack of information about sexual and reproductive health and rights In...

EARLY PREGNANCY What causes teenage pregnancy? Lack of information about sexual and reproductive health and rights Inadequate access to services tailored to young people Family, community and social pressure to marry Sexual violence Child, early and forced marriage, which can be both a cause and a consequence Lack of education or school drop-out Early Pregnancy Awareness and Prevention What is Early Pregnancy? Early pregnancy occurs when a young person becomes pregnant during their teenage years, typically between the ages of 13 and 19. This can have significant physical, emotional, and social implications. How to Prevent Getting Pregnant: - The most effective way to prevent pregnancy is to refrain from sexual activity. - Birth Control Methods: Use condoms, birth control pills, patches, or other methods to reduce the risk of pregnancy. Different Ways to Use Birth Control: - Condoms: Protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). - Hormonal Methods: Pills, patches, and injections regulate hormones to prevent ovulation. - IUDs: Small devices placed in the uterus to prevent fertilization. Why It’s Better Not to Have Sex at a Young Age:- - Emotional Readiness: Many teens may not be emotionally prepared for the responsibilities that come with sexual activity. - Risk of Pregnancy: Engaging in sexual activity increases the risk of unplanned pregnancies.  - Focus on Education: Being sexually active can distract from educational and personal goals. Talking About Relationships: - Comfort with Saying No: It’s essential to feel empowered to decline sexual activity and communicate personal boundaries. - Healthy Relationships: Focus on mutual respect, trust, and understanding. Where to Find Information About Preventing Pregnancy: - Health Clinics: Local clinics often provide educational resources and counseling. - Online Resources: Websites like Planned Parenthood, LoveYourself, and other local health organizations offer reliable information. - Books and Brochures: Schools and libraries often have educational materials available Understanding the Risks of Having Sex at a Young Age: - Physical Health Risks: STIs and unintended pregnancies can occur. - Emotional Consequences: Young people may experience stress, anxiety, or regret related to early sexual activity. - Impact on Future Goals: Early pregnancy can disrupt education and career plans. How to Plan for Safe and Healthy Relationships: o Set Boundaries: Know what you are comfortable with and communicate that to your partner. o Educate Yourself: Understand what constitutes a healthy relationship and recognize red flags. Importance of Prevention Why Education About Pregnancy is Important for Young People: o Empowerment: Knowledge empowers young people to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships. o Reduction in Early Pregnancies: Comprehensive education can lead to lower rates of early pregnancy and STIs. 10. Local Programs Local Programs That Help Prevent Early Pregnancy: o Community Health Programs: Many local health departments offer workshops and seminars on reproductive health. o School Programs: Some schools provide sexual education courses that cover pregnancy prevention.  o Youth Organizations: Organizations like LoveYourself, Women’s Crisis Center, and others often run educational initiatives. Resources and Support HIV PREVENTION What is HIV? HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks the immune system, which helps our bodies fight infections. If someone has HIV and does not get treatment, it can lead to AIDS, a serious condition that makes it very hard for the body to fight off diseases. How to Prevent HIV To prevent getting HIV, it is important to know a few things. First, the best way to avoid HIV is to not have sex. If you do have sex, always use condoms. Condoms help stop the virus from spreading. There is also a medicine called PrEP that people who do not have HIV can take to lower their chances of getting it. TOOLS TO PREVENT HIV - Talk to your partners and friends about condoms. There are more HIV prevention options than ever before, and condoms are still a highly effective option to prevent both HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). If you use them the right way every time you have sex, condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV infection. But it’s important to educate yourself about how to use them the right way. Condoms can also help prevent other STDs you can get through body fluids, like gonorrhea and chlamydia. However, they provide less protection against STDs spread through skin- to-skin contact, like human papillomavirus or HPV (genital warts), genital herpes, and syphilis. - PrEP can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout your body. It is highly effective for preventing HIV if used as prescribed. And remember, PrEP protects you against HIV but not against other sexual transmitted diseases (STDs). What is PrEP PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine that reduces your chances of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. How effective is PrEP? PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken as prescribed. Although there is less information about how effective PrEP pills are among people who inject drugs, we know that PrEP pills reduce the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% when taken as prescribed. Currently, PrEP shots are not recommended for people who inject drugs. PrEP is less effective when not taken as prescribed. How long does PrEP take to work? For receptive anal sex (bottoming), PrEP pills reach maximum protection from HIV at about 7 days of daily use. For receptive vaginal sex and injection drug use, PrEP pills reach maximum protection at about 21 days of daily use. No data are available for PrEP pill effectiveness for insertive anal sex (topping) or insertive vaginal sex. We don’t know how long it takes for PrEP shots to reach maximum protection during sex. What is PEP? PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) means taking medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PEP Must Be Started Within 72 Hours of Possible Exposure to HIV Talk right away (within 72 hours) to your health care provider, an emergency room doctor, or an urgent care provider about PEP if you think you’ve recently been exposed to HIV: during sex (for example, if the condom broke), through sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject drugs (for example, cookers), or if you’ve been sexually assaulted. The sooner you start PEP, the better. Every hour counts. If you’re prescribed PEP, you’ll need to take it daily for 28 days. PEP is for Emergency Situations PEP is given after a possible exposure to HIV. PEP is not a substitute for regular use of other HIV prevention. PEP is not the right choice for people who may be exposed to HIV frequently. If you are at ongoing risk for HIV, such as through repeated exposures to HIV, talk to your health care provider about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). TREATMENT - Get in Care- Starting HIV treatment early keeps you healthy. If you need help finding an HIV care provider near you, visit locator.hiv.gov. - Stay in Care - Treatment works best when you commit to sticking to your treatment schedule and doctor appointments. There are many HIV treatments available. Your doctor can help you find the right one for you. - Live Well- Healthy eating and exercising offer benefits that can help you maintain good physical and mental health. Also, this will help your immune system fight off infections so you can live your best life - Become Undetectable- Taking your medication as prescribed and keeping an undetectable viral load are the best things you can do to stay healthy, and doing so also prevents you from sexually transmitting HIV to your HIV-negative partner. What is HIV treatment? HIV treatment (antiretroviral therapy or ART) involves taking medicine as prescribed by a health care provider. HIV treatment reduces the amount of HIV in your body and helps you stay healthy. There is no cure for HIV, but you can control it with HIV treatment. Most people can get the virus under control within six months. HIV treatment does not prevent transmission of other sexually transmitted diseases. The Risks of Ignoring HIV Not knowing about HIV can be dangerous. If a person does not get tested, they may unknowingly spread the virus to others. There is also a lot of stigma around HIV, which can make people feel ashamed or scared to talk about it. Local Programs and Support In the Philippines, there are programs that help educate people about HIV. One such organization is LoveYourself, Inc., which provides testing and counseling. The Philippine National AIDS Council also has programs to help prevent and treat HIV. Why Education is Important Learning about HIV is important for young people. When they understand how to prevent the virus and know about treatment options, they can make better choices. Education can help lower the number of new infections. SEXUAL HARASSMENT What is sexual harassment? Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature in the workplace or learning environment, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Sexual harassment does not always have to be specifically about sexual behavior or directed at a specific person. For example, negative comments about women as a group may be a form of sexual harassment. Although sexual harassment laws do not usually cover teasing or offhand comments, these behaviors can also be upsetting and have a negative emotional effect. What does sexual harassment look like? Sexual harassment can occur in a variety of circumstances. The harasser can identify with any gender and have any relationship to the victim, including being a direct manager, indirect supervisor, coworker, teacher, peer, or colleague. Some forms of sexual harassment include: Making conditions of employment or advancement dependent on sexual favors, either explicitly or implicitly. Physical acts of sexual assault. Requests for sexual favors. Verbal harassment of a sexual nature, including jokes referring to sexual acts or sexual orientation. Unwanted touching or physical contact. Unwelcome sexual advances. Discussing sexual relations/stories/fantasies at work, school, or in other inappropriate places. Feeling pressured to engage with someone sexually. Exposing oneself or performing sexual acts on oneself. Unwanted sexually explicit photos, emails, or text messages. What is the difference between sexual harassment and sexual assault? What about sexual misconduct? Sexual harassment is a broad term, including many types of unwelcome verbal and physical sexual attention. Sexual assault refers to sexual contact or behavior, often physical, that occurs without the consent of the victim. Sexual harassment generally violates civil laws—you have a right to work or learn without being harassed—but in many cases is not a criminal act, while sexual assault usually refers to acts that are criminal. Some forms of sexual assault include: Penetration of the victim’s body, also known as rape. Attempted rape. Forcing a victim to perform sexual acts, such as oral sex or penetration of the perpetrator’s body. Fondling or unwanted sexual touching. Sexual misconduct is a non-legal term used informally to describe a broad range of behaviors, which may or may not involve harassment. For example, some companies prohibit sexual relationships between coworkers, or between an employee and their boss, even if the relationship is consensual. Where can sexual harassment occur? Sexual harassment can occur in the workplace or learning environment, like a school or university. It can happen in many different scenarios, including after-hours conversations, exchanges in the hallways, and non-office settings of employees or peers. What can I do when I witness sexual harassment? You may have heard the term bystander intervention to describe stepping in to help if you see someone who might be in danger or at risk for sexual assault. Bystander intervention can also be a helpful strategy if you witness sexual harassment. You don’t have to be a hero to make a positive impact in someone’s life, and you can intervene in a way that fits your comfort level and is appropriate for the situation. If you choose to step in, you may be able to give the person being harassed a chance to get to a safe place or leave the situation. Below are some of the steps you can take if you see someone being sexually harassed—just remember to C.A.R.E., and of course, keep your own safety in mind at all times. Create a distraction. Do what you can to interrupt the harassment, or distract those taking part in the harassment. But remember to make sure that you aren’t putting yourself in danger by doing this. If someone seems like they could become violent, do not draw their attention. Ask directly. Talk directly with the person who is being harassed. If they are being harassed at work or school, offer to accompany them anytime they have to meet with the harasser. If a friend is worried about walking alone to their car at night, offer to walk with them. Refer to an authority. The safest way to intervene for both you and the person being harassed may be to bring in an authority figure. You can talk to another employee, security guard, RA in your dorm, bartender, or bouncer, and they will often be willing to step in. Enlist others. It can be hard to step in alone, especially if you are worried about your own safety or if you don’t think you will be able to help on your own. It may be a good idea to enlist the help of a friend or another bystander. What are some effects of sexual harassment? Experiencing sexual harassment may cause some survivors to face emotional, physical, or mental health concerns. Some of them might include: Emotional effects: Anger Fear Humiliation Shame Guilt Betrayal Violation Powerlessness and loss of control Mental health effects: Anxiety Depression Panic attacks PTSD Difficulty concentrating Loss of motivation Substance abuse Suicidal ideation Physical effects: Increased stress levels Headaches Fatigue Sleep disturbances Eating disturbances How to Help Others If you see someone being harassed, it is important to help them. You can speak up and support the person who is being harassed. Let them know they are not alone and that it is okay to seek help. The Importance of Education Learning about sexual harassment is important for everyone. Education can help prevent harassment by teaching people to respect boundaries and understand the impact of their actions. Open conversations about consent and respect can create a safer community. Know Your Rights Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected. Laws exist to protect individuals from sexual harassment, and it is important to know your rights. If you feel your rights have been violated, seek help and support. What are the laws? Federal Law Legally, workplace sexual harassment is considered a form of sex discrimination, so sexual harassment is illegal across the country. Generally, these federal (national) laws apply only to employers with 15 or more employees, but your state might have better laws that cover smaller employers. 1. Sexual harassment is illegal. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (“Title VII”) makes it illegal for employers to allow anyone to be sexually harassed at work by anyone else, regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation. o Sexual harassment can happen to anyone. It is about power, not sexual desire. So for example, men who identify as straight can sexually harass other men – for example, by teasing or bullying those men for being “too feminine” or “acting gay.” (For examples of sexual harassment, see the What Is It? section above.) o Title VII applies to employers. It is designed to make employers accountable for providing a work environment that is free from harassment and other kinds of discrimination. It does not make it illegal for someone to harass someone else. Instead, it makes it illegal for employers to allow harassment to occur or to fail to stop it once they know it’s happening. So this civil rights law does not give you a right to sue an individual person – unless that individual person is your employer. 2. Retaliation is also illegal. It’s illegal for someone at work to retaliate against (punish) you for reporting or speaking out against sexual harassment, or for participating in an investigation or legal action related to sexual harassment. Examples of retaliation in the workplace include being fired or demoted, receiving a pay cut or a reduction in your hours or benefits, being assigned a different shift, location, position, receiving new or different duties, or being asked to take time off without pay. Retaliation can also be subtle, build up, or get worse over time. Examples include being iced out by coworkers, no longer being invited to meetings, or being left off of communications you were formerly on. 3. If you report sexual harassment, your employer cannot ignore you or retaliate against you. If a boss or someone in HR knows about the harassment, or should know that you are being harassed, legally, they must take prompt action to try to stop the behavior, investigate the harassment, and make sure it doesn’t happen again. The action also has to be “appropriate” and effective, meaning it has to actually make the harassment stop, without harming you or allowing you to become a target of retaliation. o If you complained or told your boss, HR, or another manager about sexual harassment, and they failed to do anything to make the situation better (or made it worse), you could consider taking legal action.  GAMING ADDICTION What is ‘gaming addiction’ and how can you prevent children from developing it? As gaming addiction has officially been recognised by the World Health Organisation as a mental health condition, we ask our experts to provide guidance on what it is and what steps parents can take to protect children from developing the condition. Online gaming addiction refers to prolonged and excessive online gaming behaviors that can cause physical and psychological issues. Gaming addiction symptoms include preoccupation with gaming, deception and secrecy, withdrawal symptoms, excessive hours of gameplay, and neglecting other responsibilities. The causes of addiction to online games include mental health issues, dopamine desensitization, seeking escapism, social isolation, and peer pressure. The treatment options available for those addicted to video games include cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, family counseling, medications, and a 12-step program. The risk factors that could lead to an addiction to video games include age, high-speed internet, parental involvement, competitive environment, and a lack of alternative activities. What is online gaming addiction? Online gaming addiction refers to a gaming behavior pattern that is so severe and frequent that it causes considerable issues in social, family, personal, work, or academic life. The World Health Organization has included Gaming Disorder (GD) as a clinically recognizable and significant syndrome in the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) (2018), according to Dr. Vladimir Poznyak in his 2018 article “Inclusion of ‘Gaming Disorder’ in ICD-11”, published by the World Health Organization. Despite its inclusion in ICD-11, internet gaming addiction is not officially recognized as a disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). However, in 2013 it was added to the section “Conditions For Further Study,” indicating that the American Psychiatric Association requires additional research before possibly recognizing this condition, according to Stephanie A. Sarkis in her 2014 article, “Internet Gaming Disorder in DSM-5,” published by Psychology Today. Online gaming addiction is characterized by drastically reduced control over gaming behaviors, which could have a negative impact on a person’s relationships, self-care, academic performance, and career. How does online gaming addiction develop? Online gaming addiction develops when a person seeks the “dopamine high” that is experienced when winning an online game, according to a 2022 article, “Video Game Addiction,” published on ClevelandClinic. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter produced by the brain that communicates between nerve cells, and it links pleasurable feelings to certain behaviors, which motivates certain actions. According to Amy Paturel in her 2014 article published in Brain & Life Magazine, excessive exposure to online games can lead to a diminished supply in dopamine production during daily activities. This causes the person to become bored and rely on video games to offer a dopamine surge and thus become addicted to online games. What are the signs of online gaming addiction? The signs of online gaming addiction are listed below. Preoccupation with gaming Deception and secrecy Neglecting responsibilities Loss of control Loss of interest in other activities Escaping problems Withdrawal symptoms Failed attempts to cut down Isolation Excessive hours of gameplay 1. Preoccupation with gaming A preoccupation with gaming refers to repeated participation in, obsessive thinking about, and consistent talking about gaming. It often leads to significant concentration issues in daily work and or educational tasks. A person’s preoccupation with gaming might start to bleed into their self-care, social life, and overall academic/career performance. This level of impact indicates that the person’s gaming habits may be turning into a more serious problem that warrants attention and support. 2. Deception and secrecy Deception and secrecy are behaviors displayed by people who are trying to hide something. In this context, a person battling with excessive online gaming habits might try to hide these habits. Deception and secrecy are frequently utilized by gamers to disguise the degree of their online gaming activities from friends and family. When a person repeatedly hides or downplays their gaming habits, avoids revealing the extent of their gaming, and makes attempts to keep their gaming behavior secret from others, it is an indication of online gaming addiction. These behaviors suggest a potential lack of control over gaming habits as well as a preference for gaming over other obligations. 3. Neglecting responsibilities Neglecting responsibilities refers to ignoring certain tasks or duties that one is responsible for. Avoiding obligations to play online games often leads to poor performance in school, work, or other duties, according to Traci Pedersen, in her 2023 article “Gaming Addiction Symptoms You May Want to Look Out For,” published on Healthline. People struggling with an online gaming addiction prioritize gaming above all other aspects of their lives. They neglect all other responsibilities in order to spend more time gaming and might forfeit their social connections, physical health, and academic or professional pursuits. 4. Loss of control Online gaming addicts can feel a complete loss of control over their addiction. They may believe that they are incapable of managing their own gaming behavior, according to a 2022 article written by Edward Luker and published by the Mayo Clinic Health System. Many online gaming addicts feel this loss of control over their gaming habits. Online gaming addicts find it difficult to limit the time that they spend on gaming and even more difficult to stop playing a game once they have started. This behavior severely disrupts their sleep patterns and strains social relationships with others who do not excessively play games. 5. Loss of interest in other activities A loss of interest in hobbies and activities indicates that the individual no longer enjoys activities that they once enjoyed. This typically happens without the individual realizing it and might grow gradually over time. Online gamers find so much satisfaction in online games that they might stop liking activities that they used to enjoy. These activities include sports, cultural activities, or simply hanging out with friends. 6. Escaping problems Escaping problems refers to choosing certain behaviors or substances to distract oneself from problems or conflicts in their life. In this case, an individual would use online gaming to take their mind off any problems. Online gamers may use gaming to avoid thinking of or dealing with problems in their family, social, work, or academic lives. However, these problems do not disappear, so the gamer will feel compelled to play for extended periods of time in an attempt to avoid facing their problems. 7. Withdrawal symptoms Withdrawal symptoms are the physical and/or mental symptoms that occur after a person stops taking part in a behavioral or substance addiction. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms is one of the clear signs of an addiction. If a gamer starts to exhibit withdrawal symptoms when not able to play games for a few hours, it could be indicative of an addiction. Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, or sadness, according to “Internet Gaming,” a 2023 article written by James Sherer and published by the American Psychiatric Association. 8. Failed attempts to cut down Failed attempts to cut down refers to unsuccessfully trying to reduce or manage one’s dependence on a substance or behavioral pattern. Often this dependence also has a negative impact on one’s daily life. When an addict has failed to cut down on their dependence, additional support from friends and family becomes crucial. Online gamers might try to regulate the amount of time playing games but fail to do so. It’s not as easy as it seems to cut down on behavioral addiction, and in some cases, they might need external help, such as professional treatment, to help them cut down. 9. Isolation People who suffer from any form of addiction tend to isolate themselves for a number of reasons, according to Dr. Richard Crabbe in his 2022 article “The Sad Connection Between Addiction and Isolation.” Most often, addicts isolate themselves due to shame or guilt of their addiction or trying to hide their addiction. Online gaming addicts isolate themselves physically to play online games with other people over the internet. They will also isolate themselves emotionally from their family and friends and prefer to spend time with their online gaming friends, who they feel won’t judge them. 10. Excessive hours of gameplay Excessive gameplay refers to playing for so many hours that eating, sleeping, and other obligations are neglected. The exact amount isn’t set in stone since it varies for everyone, but generally, playing more than 3-5 hours a day is considered excessive. When a person’s gameplay causes them to skip school/work, eat and sleep less, or withdraw from their social life, it could be a sign of excessive gameplay. Friends and family should offer their support. What are the risk factors of online gaming addiction? Chelsea McEnte The risk factors of online gaming addiction are listed below. Age High-speed internet Personality traits Lack of alternative activities Mental health issues Social isolation Competitive environment Peer pressure Escapism Accessibility Rewards and progression systems Parental involvement 1. Age The age at which a person is initially exposed to any addictive substance or behavior may have a negative impact on the development of an addiction, particularly if the age of exposure occurs before the brain is fully developed. According to Singh et al. in their 2021 article published in the Industrial Psychiatry Journal, the younger a child is when starting to play games online, the greater the chances of developing online gaming addiction. This study goes on to emphasize the risk of exposing a child to video games before the age of six when their logical reasoning abilities are not fully developed. 2. High-speed internet A high-speed internet connection is typically referred to as any speed above 25mbps (megabits per second). This speed makes online gaming enjoyable and comfortable, as there would be no lags in the gameplay. A fast internet connection may foster internet gaming addiction by allowing continuous comfortable access to online games, allowing for longer and more immersive gaming sessions. Because of the quick data flow high-speed internet offers, gamers will also find it difficult to withdraw from gaming. 3. Personality traits Researchers and psychologists believe there are five basic dimensions of personality, often referred to as “The Big 5”. In a 2023 research study published in the Current Opinion in Psychiatry journal, Müller et al. found that high neuroticism and low conscientiousness correlate with gaming disorder. High neuroticism manifests in traits such as excessive worrying, feeling anxious, and getting upset easily. On the other hand, low conscientiousness manifests in traits such as disliking structure, procrastinating important tasks, making messes, and failing to take care of their environment. However, these findings are supported and rebutted in many other studies. These are merely possible personality traits that someone who is at risk for developing online gaming addiction might exhibit. 4. Lack of alternative activities When there are few or no options for recreational or social activities, individuals may turn to addictive behaviors to prevent boredom. Gamers might turn to online gaming as a source of enjoyment and connection. This increased reliance on gaming may result in more time spent online, possibly adding to the probability of eventual addiction. In addition, the immersive nature and reward systems of online gaming can make any alternative activity seem boring in comparison. 5. Mental health issues Mental health issues are defined as clinically significant disturbances in one’s behavior, emotional regulation, or cognition, according to the World Health Organization. A person who suffers from mental health issues is typically more vulnerable to developing addictive behavioral and thought patterns. Mental health issues can elevate this vulnerability to online gaming addiction by exacerbating feelings of isolation and emotional distress, leading individuals to seek solace in and escape through online gaming. 6. Social isolation Social isolation refers to the lack of regular contact and interaction with other individuals, according to the National Institute on Aging. People with poor social skills may struggle to spend time with their peers in person. As a result, they frequently turn to online gaming to alleviate their loneliness. Online games can be played with other players, providing a sort of social engagement that they typically feel too uncomfortable seeking. 7. Competitive environment A competitive environment refers to the constant feeling of competing against other people. This could refer to friends or family and typically means that one person tries to do better than the other. Not all competitive environments are inherently toxic. However, it can lead to heightened stress and anxiety. Online gaming is a highly competitive activity as gamers compete to earn a place on global rankings, win tournaments, and win prizes. A competitive environment in online gaming might raise the risk of addiction by fostering an insatiable drive to succeed and outperform others, causing gamers to devote excessive time and effort to obtaining virtual rewards or a place on global rankings. 8. Peer pressure Peer pressure refers to the direct or indirect pressure from friends or family to influence a person’s beliefs, values, activities, or thoughts. Gamers may spend more time online in order to fit in and maintain social ties, perpetuating a loop of addictive behavior. Peer pressure can contribute to online gaming addiction by compelling individuals to conform to the gaming habits of their peers, resulting in excessive gameplay and neglect of other duties. This can lead to neglect of real-world responsibilities and academic or work obligations and, eventually, increase the risk of online gaming addiction. Excessive online gaming as a form of escapism from real-life issues might increase the risk of gaming addiction, as people prioritize virtual experiences over their obligations and realities. The virtual world becomes more appealing as reality becomes more unpleasant. 10. Accessibility Accessibility in online gaming refers to the constant availability, immersive experiences, and easy access to online games. It’s very easy to access endless hours of gameplay on the internet and be completely immersed in gameplay. However, accessibility to online gaming can escalate the risk of its addiction as the low barriers to entry and 24/7 access can easily lead to extended and excessive gameplay. The immersive environment creates a sense of escape and makes it difficult for a gamer to disengage. 11. Rewards and progression systems Rewards and progression systems are designed to make gamers feel more motivated to complete a task in order to get a special reward. While these systems enhance gameplay enjoyment, they also initiate an ongoing cycle of gratification. Rewards and progression systems can contribute to an online gaming addiction by reinforcing compulsive behaviors. This system motivates players to engage in excessive gameplay in pursuit of rewards and thus increases the risk of developing an addiction. 12. Parental involvement Parental involvement refers to how active a parent or parents are in a child/teenager’s life. Both excessive parental involvement and a lack of parental involvement could be potential risk factors for online gaming addiction. Excessive parental involvement in a child’s gaming activities may inadvertently lead to gaming addiction. Constant monitoring or pressure to succeed might lead to stress and escapism, leading the child to seek refuge in video games. On the other hand, a lack of parental involvement might cause a parent to miss certain signs that could indicate a gaming addiction. These children might also turn to video games to escape the lack of attention they are receiving at home. How does internet gaming addiction affect mental health and emotions? An internet gaming addiction can lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and social phobia, according to González-Bueso et al. in their 2018 article published in the Frontiers in Psychology journal. Excessive gaming can interfere with sleep patterns, social interactions, and daily responsibilities, worsening feelings of loneliness and low self-worth. Furthermore, the dopamine-driven reward system in gaming can cause mood swings and problems managing emotions, worsening overall mental health. What are some of the common triggers that lead to excessive online gaming? Common triggers that could lead to excessive online gaming include the desire to escape from real-life stressors (escapism), the allure of virtual rewards, or the desire to connect with others through a shared hobby. Many of the risks of an online gaming addiction overlap with the triggers that could lead to excessive gaming. These triggers can contribute to the development of unhealthy gaming behaviors, resulting in obligations being neglected, sleep habits being disrupted, and interpersonal connections being strained. Where can you seek an online gaming addiction diagnosis? You can seek an online gaming addiction diagnosis from the following sources listed below. Psychiatrist Clinical psychologist Healthcare provider (primary care physician) What are the treatments available for online gaming addiction? The treatments available for online gaming addiction are listed below. Cognitive behavioral therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy is a popular treatment option for online gaming addiction. It focuses on identifying and altering addictive thoughts related to gaming as well as introducing coping strategies to help addicts self-manage their gaming addiction. Group therapy: Group therapy refers to a group of struggling addicts who discuss their problems under the supervision of a psychologist. For online gaming addicts, group therapy can provide moral support and understanding, which they might lack from friends or family, Family counseling: In family counseling, a therapist helps the family of a gaming addict to cultivate a supportive and understanding environment. The support of family is an integral part of the recovery and management of gaming addiction, according to Han et al. in their 2012 article published in the Psychiatry Research journal. Medications: Mental health issues often play a role in addictive behavior patterns, such as online gaming addiction. Gamers struggling with psychological issues like depression or anxiety might find relief through prescribed medications like antidepressants, which also offer a comprehensive approach to addressing addictive gaming tendencies. 12-step program: Gaming Addicts Anonymous offers a comprehensive 12-step program for gaming addicts to follow individually or in groups. It leads gamers through the whole recovery process, from admitting they have a problem to making amends with peers and family. When to seek treatment for online gaming addiction? A person should seek treatment for online gaming addiction when they develop an obsessive preoccupation with playing online games. According to “Video Game Addiction,” a 2022 article published by Cleveland Clinic, in order to diagnose and manage gaming addiction, gaming habits must exhibit extreme characteristics that cause considerable disruptions to an individual’s personal, familial, social, educational, or professional life. Typically, these patterns need to persist for a minimum of one year. A person should also seek treatment for online gaming addiction if they’re experiencing five or more signs of online gaming addiction for a prolonged period of time. A doctor or mental health professional will be able to provide a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for individual circumstances. How does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) help in treating gaming addiction? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) that aims to help addicts identify and change behavioral and thought patterns. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help gaming addicts recognize the thoughts and behaviors that lead them into and encourage their addiction. How long does online gaming addiction recovery typically take? There is no set recovery time frame for online gaming addiction recovery, as each person has unique circumstances. Typically, a mental healthcare provider or a doctor will recommend cognitive behavioral therapy, which generally involves 6 to 20 weekly (or fortnightly) sessions. In more severe instances, individuals struggling with gaming addiction might be urged to consider an inpatient addiction treatment center by their doctor. At these treatment centers, they can undergo a treatment program lasting either 30 or 60 days. How is online gaming addiction prevented? To prevent an online gaming addiction, set precise time limitations for playing games. These time constraints are determined by the individual’s responsibilities, such as work or family. Additionally, engage in new activities such as reading, learning new information, or photography. These hobbies will help an individual avoid becoming immersed in a gaming addiction. Finally, establish defined goals for a career or formal education. This guarantees that the individual has something to strive for, which is an excellent motivator to restrict time spent playing video games. Is video game addiction a serious matter? Yes, video game addiction can be a very serious matter, especially if it interferes with one’s daily life. When addiction begins to produce mental, physical, or social issues, it is time to seek diagnosis and treatment. What are some effective strategies for managing online gaming addiction? The effective strategies for managing online gaming addiction are listed below. Remove temptations: Gaming devices should be removed from the bedroom to ensure that there are no temptations to play games that could disrupt sleep patterns. Set up a gaming schedule: Set up and stick to a strict gaming schedule. This should be an allotted amount of time that can be spent playing games, ideally no more than 1 – 2 hours. Discover alternative hobbies: Alternative hobbies and activities that can offer the same stress relief as gaming is an effective strategy for managing gaming addiction. These activities include playing sports, hiking, meditation, and reading. Seek Support: Individuals facing online gaming addiction should not hesitate to reach out for assistance. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeking guidance from a mental health professional, or joining a support group specifically tailored to gaming addiction. Establish a routine: Establishing a daily routine will help gamers maintain discipline and manage their gaming habits. A routine will help prevent boredom or impulsive gaming. How can parents effectively address and manage online gaming addiction in their children? The strategies for parents to address and manage an online gaming addiction in their children are listed below. Open discussion: Parents should have an open discussion with their children about their gaming habits and inform them if they are concerned about the hours spent gaming. Remove temptations: Parents should remove any computers, TVs, and gaming devices from the child’s room and set up the equipment in a family-accessible room (like the TV room). This allows parents to keep an eye on and manage online gaming activity. Allow limited gameplay: Another tip for parents to manage internet addiction in their children is to allow a set limit of time to play games on school days and on weekends. According to Nancy Petry in her 2023 article published by the Child Mind Institute, children’s gameplay should be limited to 60 minutes on weekdays and 2 hours on weekends. Alternative activities: Parents should discover alternative fun activities that they can do with their children, such as camping, game nights, going to the park, etc. These activities would help children take their minds off gaming and experience other joys in their lives. Seek professional support: Parents should feel confident to reach out and seek professional help if they feel unable to manage their children’s online gaming. Seeking professional help might also indicate to children that their parents understand and support their struggle. How do online gaming addiction and internet addiction relate to each other? If a person has an online gaming addiction, they may also fit the criteria for an internet addiction. Internet addiction is defined as a compulsive need to spend a significant amount of time on the internet engaging in numerous activities. It can be used as a catch-all phrase for a variety of other addictions, including online gaming addiction, online shopping addiction, and online gambling addiction. Online gaming addiction, on the other hand, is defined as consistent and recurrent participation in online gaming. However, according to Alsunni and Latif in their 2022 paper published in the Journal of Family & Community Medicine, online gaming addiction, as defined by the DSM-5, can be either online or offline, despite the term of the addiction. Thus a person who is addicted to offline video games would not fit the criteria for an internet addiction. LGBTQ EMPOWERMENT Empowering LGBTQ+ youth to define their own journey. What is LGBTQ+? LGBTQ+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning, with the "+" representing other sexual orientations and gender identities. This community includes people who identify as different from the traditional norms regarding gender and sexuality. Understanding LGBTQ+ Rights LGBTQ+ individuals have the same rights as everyone else. This includes the right to love whom they choose, express their gender identity, and live free from discrimination and violence. It is important to respect and support these rights for all people. Why LGBTQ+ Empowerment Matters Empowerment means giving people the tools and confidence to advocate for themselves and their community. For LGBTQ+ individuals, empowerment helps them express their identities and fight against discrimination. It also promotes acceptance and understanding in society. Facing Challenges LGBTQ+ people often face challenges such as bullying, discrimination, and lack of support. Many feel isolated or afraid to be themselves because of negative attitudes or laws against their rights. It is important to create a safe and supportive environment where everyone can feel accepted. How to Support LGBTQ+ Empowerment You can support LGBTQ+ empowerment in several ways: Educate Yourself: Learn about LGBTQ+ issues and the experiences of those in the community. Understanding helps reduce prejudice. Speak Up: If you see or hear someone being disrespectful towards LGBTQ+ individuals, speak out against it. Being an ally means standing up for equality. Support LGBTQ+ Organizations: Many groups work to promote LGBTQ+ rights and provide resources. Donating or volunteering can make a difference. Creating Inclusive Spaces It is essential to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels safe and accepted. This can be done in schools, workplaces, and communities by using inclusive language, celebrating diversity, and promoting equality. Importance of Mental Health Mental health is very important for LGBTQ+ individuals. Many face stress and anxiety due to societal pressures or discrimination. Encouraging open conversations about mental health and providing access to supportive resources can help. Local Resources for Support In the Philippines, there are organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights and provide resources. Groups like The Rainbow Rights Project and LGBTQ+ Philippines offer education, advocacy, and support services for individuals in the community. Celebrating Diversity Celebrating diversity within the LGBTQ+ community is important. Events like Pride Month highlight the achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals and promote awareness of the issues they face. Participating in these events shows support and solidarity. Why Education is Key Education about LGBTQ+ issues is crucial for creating a more accepting society. Teaching about different identities and experiences can help reduce stigma and promote understanding among all people.