Video Games Could Benefit Mental Health

Video games have been studied extensively for their potential role in violent and negative behaviors, and this singular view has largely given them a bad rap. More recent research has highlighted the positive effects of video gameplay, which appears to be just as noteworthy. Time spent playing and genre choices could be important factors in the impact they have on us so it's not as easy as early ideas seemed to promote. Check out how video games could benefit mental health — and consider getting that kid in your life a new game.

Video Game May Benefit Emotional Regulation

The thought of playing video games might not bring images of well-being for everyone, but many gamers swear by them as a means of unwinding and improving mood. Some experts have been among their cheerleaders, and a few have set out to determine the full emotional impact. Notably, an article published in Games for Health Journal details the positive effects video games can have on emotion regulation. They found:

• The interactive nature of many games allows players to manipulate their environments, immersing them in story and character dynamics. Depending on the plot and genre, these details may evoke strong emotions in players as the game unfolds.
• Certain role-playing aspects can give players the freedom to work on self-perception, identity and emotional awareness.
• The sense of reward that comes with overcoming obstacles set in video games can offer an emotional boost that may extend beyond the world of gameplay. 

Researchers found people who played video games regularly were better at regulating their emotions than people who didn’t game regularly. They believe playing these games offers a sense of deep, immersive escapism that helps users recharge and balance themselves emotionally.

The Therapeutic Potential of Video Games

Even better, video games could offer more than day-to-day emotional release; they may have deeper therapeutic capabilities. According to a study on military veterans’ mental health, those who play regularly report better adaptive coping skills, increased confidence, and greater social support. People interested in using video games for their healing value should discuss the idea with a therapist who may be able to provide strategies for getting the most out of each session.

The Dark Side of Gaming

Video games have a lot to offer, but they also have the potential for abuse in some people. Many people have binge-played at least one game, ad most can keep their playing within reason. But for some — that's just not possible as they become deeply invested in the game and find it hard to live a life outside the game. Gaming disorder, a condition that leaves sufferers playing compulsively, sometimes leads to significant harm.

Addicted to the dopamine spikes they get while playing, people with this disorder often exhibit tell-tale behaviors:

• They begin to isolate themselves from friends and family.
• They’re dishonest to others about the amount of time they spend playing, and they’re likely to spend time playing behind loved ones’ backs.
• They may become irritable when they don’t have access to their games.
• They might neglect their responsibilities because they play so often. School or work begin to fall by the wayside, and they may also start ignoring their other hobbies and interests.
• They may skip meals or sleep because they’re too busy gaming.
• They may develop physical side effects, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, eye strain and posture issues, from overplaying.

People who engage in online multiplayer gaming platforms may be more likely to suffer from video game addictions but all of these symptoms are important to be mindful of, even in single-player games. But consider that many otherwise healthy activities have a dark side, too. Video games are hardly alone in that! We can do too much of many things, from exercise to drinking water. Too much is just unhealthy no matter what it is. So maybe it's time to stop harping on video games specifically?

Video games can be a healthy part of most people’s lives, offering numerous possible benefits to their mental and emotional health. For some people, gaming could even help with processing trauma and improving self-reflection. The potential for addiction exists, but when done in moderation (about 6 hours per week), the impacts of regular video gameplay can actually be beneficial.

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