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Doctor Writes Prescription Banning Addict From Fortnite For Two Weeks

Doctor Writes Prescription Banning Addict From Fortnite For Two Weeks

The GP said it was a serious order but wasn't sure what the pharmacy would do with his prescription

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

A doctor wrote a prescription banning a young boy from playing the video game Fortnite after becoming concerned it was damaging his health.

Dr Amir Khan - of Channel 5's hit show, GPs Behind Closed Doors - told the 11-year-old he was not to play the popular game for at least two weeks and even wrote the order on a doctor's pad and signed it.

Tweeting out the bizarre story to his 20,000 followers, the GP joked that even though he was serious he wasn't sure how the pharmacy was going to deal with the request.

He said: "The best prescription I gave today was to an 11yr old lad 'No Minecraft or Fortnight [sic] for two weeks, doctors orders!' Addictive computer games impacting his life I even wrote it on a prescription pad and signed it!"

He added: "Good luck to the pharmacist who gets that!"

The young lad was ordered not to play the popular video game for two weeks.
PA

However, despite the tongue-in-cheek tweet, many of Dr Khan's followers commented to say how concerned they were by the impact video games appeared to be having on young people.

"We spend a great deal of time advising on limiting screen time to improve sleep patterns. When implemented the benefits are significant, only wish we could prescribe too," wrote one person.

A second person commented on the tweet, saying there was a growing trend of children being referred to medical professionals, writing: "On the serious note we have more and more referral regarding behavioural addictions and in my area there are very very few (if any) services which could address it and it is left to social workers to address it as well. We need more Dr like you."

While another Twitter user said: "This is a huge problem with many children being addicted to gaming, parents do need to take some responsibility for this."

"This is the best thing I've read in a long time. More of you....please, more of this. I beg you. Love from a teacher," said another.

Others suggested that rather than just banning children from computer games or consoles, doctors could offer useful alternative hobbies for youngsters to do with their time.

"Perhaps the prescription should say.... Play outdoors in the sunshine, read a book, enjoy a family day out and enjoy appreciating the wonders of springtime," wrote one person.

A second follower added: "How about adding in a green prescription, linked to nature's recovery as well as the young lad's. Imagine, a Pharmacy that provides a choice of inspiring green therapies alongside the drugs, devices, potions & lotions."

Let's hope it worked, eh?

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: GAMING, UK News, Entertainment, Interesting, Health