The project aimed to equip teachers, school leaders and educational staff with the knowledge and tools needed to recognise, prevent and address Gaming Disorder (GD) within school communities. The project was focused on strengthen their capacity to identify early signs of problematic gaming behaviour, support at-risk students, and promote healthier digital habits. Another objective was to raise awareness among students, families and educators about the risks associated with excessive gaming and the importance of building a balanced digital identity. Through evidence-based research and pedagogical materials, the project aimed to foster safer and more responsible internet use. Finally, the project intended to contribute to schools’ overall digital readiness and resilience by developing practical resources that help educational professionals respond to new behavioural challenges emerging from digital transformation.
Digital transformation is progressing rapidly, and young people are increasingly exposed to digital environments that, if used irresponsibly, can lead to harmful behaviours. The European Parliament report “Harmful Internet Use” (2019) identifies online gaming addiction as a potential behavioural disorder, and the WHO’s inclusion of Gaming Disorder (GD) in ICD-11 highlights the urgency to address it. As games become more immersive through VR and AI, the line between real and virtual identities becomes increasingly blurred, and many young people use gaming as an escape mechanism to cope with emotional or social difficulties. Schools report that they lack the knowledge and tools to identify early signs of GD, support at-risk students, and educate families. This project responds to these needs by equipping teachers and school staff with evidence-based guidance and practical tools to prevent, identify, and report GD, while fostering healthy online habits and a stronger digital identity among students. It promotes responsible internet use and strengthens the capacity of school communities to address emerging digital behavioural risks.