My boyfriend’s gaming habit is making me contemplate cheating on him

DEAR DEIDRE: MY boyfriend’s obsession with gaming is tempting me to stray with another man.

I love him but he only has eyes for the characters in computer games, while I feel totally invisible.

We moved in together a year ago. I’m 28 and he’s 27.

When he’s not gaming, he’s kind, considerate, affectionate and generous. But I rarely see his good side any more. In fact, I rarely see him at all.

As soon as he gets home from work, he’s straight on his console. He even plays while he eats.

His conversational skills have entirely dried up because he never wants to go out, watch TV or films, or even go on social media.

In the meantime, I’ve been hanging out more with my own friends and I’ve started getting close to one guy.

I’ve developed a big crush on him.

He’s good-looking and fun to be around, but the most attractive thing about him is that he pays me attention.

I’ve never cheated on anyone, but I’m starting to fantasise about something happening between us.

What should I do?

DEIDRE SAYS:  You’re feeling bored and neglected.

Your boyfriend is taking you for granted and not putting any effort into your relationship.

More than this, it sounds like he’s become addicted to gaming. This is a recognised problem, which the NHS can treat.

See The National Centre for Gaming Disorders webpage (cnwl.nhs.uk) and try to get him to seek help.

Tell him you’re worried about him.

Cheating is not the solution to your problem. And it’s clearly not what you want.

You need to tell your boyfriend how you feel, and ask him if he will work on your relationship together.

My support pack, Standing Up For Yourself, should help you to do this.

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