Young Man Buried in Debt Due to Online Gaming Addiction, Reveals Distressing Story

New Delhi: A young man has shared his harrowing experience of falling into the depths of online gaming addiction, accumulating a staggering ₹9.6 million (approximately $116,000) in debt. In an emotional interview during the "Bhaiya ji Kahin" program on News India, Himanshu Mishra recounted the damaging effects of gaming apps, particularly on young people.

Mishra highlighted how these apps lure users with promises of easy money, suggesting that betting on teams could lead to huge financial rewards. However, he emphasized that the reality is starkly different, as many individuals become addicted to gaming, leading to dire financial consequences.

The Depth of His Struggles

When anchor Prateek Trivedi asked Mishra about the enormous debt, he revealed the extent of his troubles. “My mother is a teacher, and now she doesn’t want to speak to me. No one in my family wants to talk to me anymore,” he said. He expressed despair, stating that if something were to happen to him on the street, his family would not even come to check on him.

Mishra admitted to borrowing money from others and resorting to fraudulent activities to sustain his addiction. "When the addiction sets in, it drives you to do anything to satisfy it," he explained.

Calling for Awareness and Support

Prateek Trivedi stressed the need for a collective awareness about the dangers of online gambling, noting that approximately 41% of the youth population is currently engaged in such activities. He emphasized that gambling should never be accepted as a norm and encouraged people to speak out about it.

Mishra's plight is not an isolated case, as many individuals are caught in similar predicaments. A Jain organization from Jodhpur reached out, offering to help him, showing that there is support available for those struggling with addiction. Trivedi urged those affected to seek community involvement and support, saying, “Engage with people, and gather the courage to overcome this addiction. The path forward will become clear.”

A Growing Concern

The alarming rise in online gaming addiction highlights a pressing social issue that needs urgent attention. With countless individuals facing similar challenges, there is a crucial need for awareness campaigns and support systems to help those caught in the cycle of addiction find a way back to stability and well-being. As Mishra's story illustrates, it is vital to address the psychological and financial impacts of online gambling on youth.