What is gaming addiction treatment in Switzerland?
Gaming disorder (ICD-11, 6C51) is defined by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to it over other activities, and continuation despite harm, for at least 12 months.
Many people affected are young adults, and treatment frequently involves the family. Co-occurring anxiety, depression and ADHD are common.
Common signs of gaming & internet addiction
- Losing track of time online, often through the night
- Neglecting study, work, hygiene or meals
- Irritability when devices are removed
- Withdrawal from offline friends and activities
Who is gaming addiction treatment for?
Young adults and adults whose screen use has displaced education, work, sleep or relationships, particularly when outpatient attempts have failed.
Classification: 6C51 (ICD-11: gaming disorder).
Best clinics for gaming & internet addiction in Switzerland
These 2 licensed private clinics in Switzerland treat gaming & internet addiction. Our editor's picks come first; inclusion follows our methodology.
BoutiqueEditor's pickClinic Les Alpes
A medically licensed, fully inpatient luxury clinic in the mountains above Montreux, combining in-house detox and psychiatry with an integrated mind–body–spirit programme.
SpecialistForel Klinik
One of Switzerland's oldest specialist addiction clinics, with a structured residential programme for alcohol, drug and behavioural addictions.
Gaming addiction treatment clinics in Switzerland compared
| Clinic | Region | Format | Typical stay | From / week |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clinic Les Alpes | Lake Geneva & Montreux | Boutique residential clinic | Individual; most programmes 4–8 weeks | CHF 60'000 |
| Forel Klinik | Zurich & Lake Zurich | Specialist addiction clinic | 6–12 weeks | On request |
How is gaming & internet addiction treated in Swiss clinics?
CBT
Targets compulsive patterns and builds alternative routines. More about CBT.
Family therapy
Agreeing realistic rules and rebuilding communication. More about family therapy.
Structured daily programme
Sport, nature, creative work and social activities to replace screen time.
How does gaming addiction treatment in Switzerland work, step by step?
- Confidential assessment: a short call or form to understand the situation, history and urgency.
- Clinic match and medical pre-assessment: the clinic's doctor reviews medical information and confirms suitability.
- Admission and stabilisation: full psychiatric and medical assessment in the first days.
- Intensive therapy phase: daily individual therapy and specialist treatments.
- Aftercare and relapse prevention: a written plan and follow-up at home. See aftercare.
How long does gaming addiction treatment take, and what does it cost?
4–8 weeks residential, with ongoing outpatient support.
Costs for gaming & internet addiction treatment in Switzerland range from about CHF 7,000 per week in a private psychiatric clinic to CHF 60'000 per week for the most exclusive programme listed here. See the full cost guide and insurance options.
Luxury gaming addiction treatment in Switzerland
Small boutique clinics provide a calm, screen-limited environment with a peer group of similar age, which is particularly helpful for young adults. Read about confidential treatment, rehab for executives and international patients.
Why choose Switzerland for gaming & internet addiction treatment?
- Psychiatrist-led care in licensed clinics. Addiction psychiatry in Switzerland.
- Legal confidentiality under Swiss medical secrecy and the nFADP.
- English-speaking teams and private transfers for overseas patients.
- Fast admission, often within 24–72 hours.
FAQ: gaming addiction treatment in Switzerland
Is gaming addiction officially recognised?
Yes, the WHO added gaming disorder to ICD-11 in 2019.
Do clinics take away phones?
Most residential programmes limit device access, especially early on, with gradual, planned reintroduction.
Related treatments
- Gambling addiction treatment in Switzerland→
- Anxiety treatment in Switzerland→
- Depression treatment in Switzerland→
