Aetna Rehab and Video Game Addiction Coverage
Video game addiction is a clinical impulse control disorder that can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life in ways that mirror alcohol and drug abuse. Individuals who are addicted to playing video games can become withdrawn and isolated. They may forego work and school commitments, ignore family responsibilities, and stop associating with friends in order to spend as much time as possible playing video games. For individuals who are addicted to video games, repeatedly playing these games can lead to elevated levels of dopamine in the brain’s reward center. Like compulsive gambling addiction or sex addiction, video game addiction is characterized by the compulsive need to engage in a specific behavior despite the serious toll this behavior takes on an individual’s life. If you or a loved one cannot stop gambling, the right professional treatment program can bring back control and end this destructive behavior. Aetna video game addiction coverage may help pay for treatment.
Treatment Options with Aetna Video Game Addiction Coverage
Video game addiction treatment is designed to address the compulsive behavior that drives this addiction. Like other compulsive behavior treatments, options may include behavioral modification therapy, medication, and self-help groups. Some individuals with video game addiction may also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or ADD/ADHD. Studies show that individuals with dual diagnosis have the best treatment prognosis when their conditions are treated simultaneously. In the case of video game addiction and a co-occurring mental health condition, this may mean treating depression with mood stabilizers and prescription medication, as well as therapy. The goal of treatment is to concurrently address an individual’s compulsive behavior and the emotional or mental conditions underpinning this behavior. This integrated approach may help indivdiuals lead healthier and more balanced lives.
Aetna recognizes that behavioral health issues, such as addictive behavior, can interfere with an individual’s overall health. Aetna offers integrated care that is designed to tailor disease management programs to address both mental health concerns as well as behavioral issues. In most cases, Aetna does not require pre-authorization for outpatient care. However, pre-authorization may be necessary for inpatient care, including 28-day, 60-day or 90-day inpatient treatment programs, depending on Aetna video game addiction coverage.
Professional treatment plays an important role in addressing behavioral addiction. A trained benefits advisor can help you better understand the Aetna video game addiction coverage options that are available through your insurance plan.