In most cases gaming is harmless. But, if children are missing sleep, school or social events, it could signal something more serious.
Macquarie University researchers surveyed 900 students from Years 7-10 at a New South Wales high school.
They found 15 males students and 9 females met the criteria for the recognised mental health condition - Internet Gaming Disorder. That's almost three percent of the population surveyed.
Child Psychologist and PHD Candidate, Brad Marshall, says that number is consistent with international studies.