SINGAPORE – When a teenager struggling with gaming addiction approached counselor Daniel Wong, it was clear the problem went beyond excessive screen time.

The young man, who showed symptoms of anxiety and depression, had difficulty coping at school. He closed himself off from the outside world and was only caught up in his games.

Mr Wong, of Touch Community Services, said: “It was a challenge and I was a bit taken aback because what are we going to focus on here? Mental health, addiction or personal relationships?”

The consultant decided to connect with the teenager in the gaming world. After a few sessions of playing together, the teenager began to open up and reveal the real problem: his tumultuous relationship with his father.

The two argued frequently. The teenager turned to gaming to manage his anger and avoid interaction with his father; The father blamed gaming for his son’s behavior.

Despite the teenager’s initial hesitations, Mr Wong decided to involve the family in counseling sessions.

Mr Wong explained that his focus was on improving their communication and reducing misunderstandings.

The first few family sessions were heated. But gradually over the next nine months, the father learned that he needed to change the way he communicated with his son to avoid coming across as nagging or scolding; meanwhile, the youngster was encouraged to find ways to appreciate his father’s advice.

As the young man’s relationship with his father began to improve, his depressive symptoms decreased, his anxiety attacks stopped, and his gaming addiction decreased. He came out of his shell and started making friends at school.

Mental health professionals like Mr. Wong work behind the scenes, revealing the complexity of individual struggles.

These practitioners, who include psychiatrists, counselors, psychologists and therapists, provide support and guidance to individuals facing emotional or psychological difficulties. Their work is critical, especially as mental health becomes a national priority.