Proposal for the Introduction of a Separate ICD-10 Category for Interactive Video Addiction Disorders

Executive Summary

This proposal advocates for the creation of a dedicated ICD-10 category for Interactive Video Addiction Disorders, encompassing a spectrum of disorders arising from the compulsive use of various digital media forms. Despite the increasing prevalence and significant impact on mental and physical health, these disorders are not adequately categorized within the current ICD-10 framework. A separate category would facilitate precise diagnosis, inform treatment strategies, and spur further research into these emerging disorders.

Background and Rationale

Interactive Video Addiction Disorders, including gaming, pornography, social media, and other digital media addictions, have emerged as significant behavioral health concerns. These disorders share common mechanisms such as reward pathways activation, escapism, and the compulsion loop, contributing to their addictive potential. The prevalence of these disorders varies globally, with estimates suggesting a significant impact across different populations and age groups, including children and adolescents. The current ICD-10 classification lacks specific codes to adequately represent these disorders, hindering effective clinical management and research efforts.

Proposal for New ICD-10 Category and Sub-Categories

· New ICD-10 Category: “Addiction to Interactive Video and Digital Media” (AIVDM)

· Sub-Categories:

o AIVDM1: Interactive Video Gaming Disorder

o AIVDM2: Interactive Pornography Addiction

o AIVDM3: Interactive Social Media Disorder

o AIVDM4: Online Dating Addiction

o AIVDM5: Smartphone Addiction

o AIVDM6: Internet Addiction

o AIVDM7: Streaming and Video Content Addiction

o AIVDM8: Online Shopping Addiction

Justification and Benefits

1. Enhanced Clinical Recognition: Specific codes will enable healthcare providers to accurately diagnose and differentiate between various forms of digital media addictions, leading to more tailored and effective treatment plans.

2. Facilitated Research: Dedicated ICD-10 codes will promote research into the prevalence, risk factors, and treatment outcomes of these disorders, contributing to the development of evidence-based interventions.

3. Public Health Strategy: Standardized classification will inform public health initiatives aimed at addressing and mitigating the impact of digital media addiction on society, particularly among vulnerable populations such as youth.

4. Global Consistency: Aligning with the proposed ICD-11 classification for Interactive Digital Media Use Disorder, these codes would ensure consistency in diagnostic criteria and reporting standards worldwide.

Conclusion

The introduction of a separate ICD-10 category for Interactive Video Addiction Disorders is imperative to address the growing challenge posed by the addictive use of digital media. By recognizing these disorders with specific codes, the medical community can better understand, treat, and prevent the adverse effects associated with digital media addiction. We urge the adoption of this proposal to enhance patient care, support research, and guide public health strategies in the digital age.

References

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