Gaming is not just a way to pass time, it is a form of entertainment that has been found to have a positive impact on mental health. Games have been found to be instrumental in helping individuals cope with anxiety and depression. It is a form of active engagement that can distract the mind from psychological distress and lead to improved emotional regulation.
Anxiety and depression are mental health disorders that affect millions of people around the world. They can cause a range of symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, irritability, and a persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness. Video games have been identified as a powerful tool in assisting in these struggles as they help alleviate the negative emotions associated with anxiety and depression.
Video games offer an immersive environment that transports players to another world. In this world, they can take on avatar roles and engage with others or interact with objects around them. This creates a sense of control over the environment, which is an important factor in reducing anxiety levels. Games can also create a sense of being present in the moment, which is an effective coping mechanism for individuals that struggle with racing thoughts.
Games help in the area of social isolation. People who are living with anxiety and depression often experience social isolation, which can further exacerbate mental health problems. Video games offer an opportunity for social engagement with other players who share the same interests. This can be a way to form connections with others and foster a sense of belonging.
The rewards systems inherent in almost all games also benefit mental health. These rewards create a sense of accomplishment, which is important in combating feelings of low self-esteem and hopelessness associated with depression. They also encourage players to focus more on the positives rather than the negatives, thereby improving their mood and outlook on life.
In recent years, the popularity of virtual reality games has grown. These games offer an even more immersive experience and can be used to treat specific mental health problems. Virtual reality games can be used to simulate the real world and create a safe environment for exposure therapy, which is a common treatment for anxiety disorders.
Lastly, gaming can be a beneficial way to relax and unwind. The interactive nature of gaming can be a more effective way to disengage from thoughts of anxiety and depression than more passive entertainment activities like watching TV. Playing games can also create a sense of flow, which is a state of deep engagement where one loses track of time and becomes absorbed in a task, thereby reducing negative emotions.
It is important to note that video games should not be seen as a replacement for professional mental health treatment. However, they have proven to be a beneficial adjunct therapy for mental health conditions. Gaming can be a practical, engaging, and enjoyable way for individuals to improve their mental health and to make their journey towards recovery a little easier.
