I need some help. My college friend and roommate is addicted to World of Warcraft (wow). It has really become an issue because for the most part all he does is go to class and play that game. On average he spends anywhere between 6-10 hours a day playing. It is even worse on the weekends. When I or my other roommates ask him to come out with us for anything (night on the town, movies, even dinner) he very rarely says yes and even he has to make sure he is back in time for "Instances". Can anyone help me in getting him to realize what he is doing to himself?

Clough

I know exactly what it is like to be addicted to a game because of having been addicted to one myself in the past.

Sounds like it is time for some "tough love" on your part to your friend.

One of the first things that I would say, is: "Hi, (name), Hey, just what is it about that game that makes you want to spend more time playing it than spending time with your friends? Do you value that game more than your friends? Because it sure seems like you do!"

"I'm just asking this as your friend, because I value our friendship very much. And, I don't want to lose you as a friend. Being friends means maintaining the friendship. And, I don't think that you are doing that."

"What do you think?"

Puts the ball in his court. It is up to him.

I know that it may sound harsh. But, it sounds like he needs a reality check!

This would be a start, anyway.

You might want to preface the above with, "I'm having a problem. And, I'm hoping that it is something that you can help me with." Would you?

Makes him feel as though it is "your" problem. And, as your friend, of course he is going to help you with it.

It is called "Winning Without Intimidation."