GULS
Gamer User Lifestyle Scale
Instructions: Please think about your gaming habits over the last 6 months. For each statement, choose the frequency that most accurately describes your experience.
Over the last 6 months...
Never (0) | Rarely (1) | Sometimes (2) | Often (3) | Very Often (4)
1. I find myself thinking about gaming even when I’m not playing.
2. I feel a sense of excitement or "rush" when I start a game.
3. I spend more time gaming than I originally intended.
4. I have neglected household chores or responsibilities to keep gaming.
5. I prefer gaming over spending time with friends or family in person.
6. I have lost sleep because I stayed up too late playing.
7. I feel irritable or restless when I am unable to play.
8. I use gaming as a way to escape from stress or negative feelings.
9. I have tried to cut back on my gaming time but found it difficult.
10. My performance at work or school has been impacted by my gaming.
How to Calculate Your Score
Add up the numbers for all 10 questions. Your total score will be between 0 and 40.
What Your Score Means
0–15: Balanced Gamer. Gaming is likely a healthy hobby and a positive source of entertainment or social connection for you.
16–25: Enthusiastic Gamer. You are very engaged with gaming. While it may not be a "problem," it might be worth checking if it's starting to pull focus away from other life goals.
26–40: At-Risk / High Impact. Your gaming habits are significantly impacting your daily life, sleep, or relationships. This doesn't mean you have to "stop gaming," but it might be helpful to talk with a therapist about finding a more sustainable balance.
A Note from Vibe: We love gaming! Our practice was founded by gamers! Whether it’s on a console, on a mobile device, or even a full computer, gaming is a valid way to connect and decompress. We only want to help when the game loop starts to knock the life loop out of balance.
Important: If you are in immediate distress or having thoughts of hurting yourself, please reach out for support. You are not alone, and help is available 24/7.
Call or Text: Dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
Emergency: Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Ready to talk through these results?
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today!
Credits & Citations
Source: Adapted from various validated lifestyle scales and research on gaming behavior (e.g., Lemmens et al.). This scale is intended for educational screening and self-reflection.
