With the current era of technology, video games have become an increasingly popular form of entertainment. Far from the negative associations of video games as a source of escapism, what is often overlooked is how they can be used to actively improve mental health. In this article, we look into the concept of “Gaming for Good” and the scientifically-proven mental health benefits of video games.
1. Rediscovering the Joy of Gaming
With technology ever advancing and games getting more and more realistic, it could be said that some of the joy of gaming has been lost. While there is still a sense of achievement when completing a newer, more sophisticated title, for some, it’s just not the same.
So, many gamers have gone back to their roots, and rediscovered the joy of gaming from yesteryear. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to give it a go:
- Nostalgia – What better way to get back in touch with your younger self than firing up the old grey box or cartridge?
- Price – Retro games can be incredibly cheap compared to modern releases, meaning you don’t have to spend a fortune.
- Simplicity – Old school gaming is often much less complicated than modern games, meaning you can pick it up straight away and start having fun!
2. Uncovering Mental Health Benefits of Video Games
The World of Video Games
Video games have long been written off as nothing more than a mindless activity, but modern research shows us that the mental health benefits they provide may be surprisingly varied. With the immersive worlds and stories created within them, video games can help players improve their mental dexterity and reduce levels of stress or anxiety.
We now know that video games can provide a unique escape from reality, and the gratitude that comes along with it is invaluable. Regulated, mindful gaming can help gamers cope with things like social awkwardness and the anxiety that comes with it. For example, a 2018 study found that playing a 3D platform game increased players’ self-control and emotional stability. Not just that, but video games can also be used to increase concentration, boost multitasking skills and help players develop problem-solving abilities. As a bonus, playing video games can also provide players with a new hobby or learning experience, making them even more mentally healthy. Titles such as Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley have been shown to release endorphins like dopamine and serotonin, which put players in a more relaxed state of mind.
There are also a plethora of cognitive elements that come with playing video games, such as the ability to increase strategy and enhance decision-making skills. Without the pressure of real-life consequences, players can take their time and decide on a specific course of action to work through a difficult game. Other aspects such as planning out actions in advance and resource management have shown to help gamers think on their feet.
Finally, video games give players a sense of escapism and control. With the world of the game providing a safe space, players don’t need to worry about too much in real life, while also encountering goals and tasks that make them more resilient in their every-day lives.
3. The Power of Interactive Entertainment
- Interactive entertainment has the power to propel people’s imaginations, evoke emotion, and create shared experiences.
- It’s a form of art that works on a number of levels, from the visuals to the sounds to the story.
In the best of cases, it allows us to escape from our everyday lives and plunge us into imaginary, unexplored worlds. Whether it’s an epic and sprawling RPG experience, a fun and fast-paced shooter, or a narrative-driven adventure game, interactive entertainment gives us access to a variety of virtual experiences.
It also allows us the opportunity to exercise our problem-solving skills and hone our reflexes, making for an engaging and challenging experience. By pitting us against artificial intelligence-controlled opponents, the world of interactivity can give us the experience of participating in a real-time competition or conflict. It’s easy to become invested in the outcome of these battles, elevating the enjoyment of the game as a whole.
4. Finding Calm in the Chaos of Gaming
Finding moments of peace amidst the chaos of gaming is not the easiest thing to do. Video games are designed to challenge and thrill us in ways that can often be quite overwhelming. But, there are plenty of ways for players to carve out moments of serenity in their gaming experiences, even if it’s only for a brief period of time. Here are a few practical tips to help find a sense of calm amongst the tumult of gaming:
- Set Goals and Pursue Them: Set achievable gaming goals for yourself and go about achieving those goals in whatever way you find most appropriate. Doing this can lead to a sense of accomplishment and purpose, and can be a calming experience as opposed to aimless quests with no direction.
- Take a Break: Every once in a while, take a break from your game. Step away, take a deep breath and just relax. This will give your mind time to reset and refocus, and allow for a more calming experience when you start playing again.
- Find a Quiet Spot: If you’re playing in the presence of loved ones or other people around, try to find a quiet corner or spot in your room where you can zone out and enjoy the game away from the hustle and bustle.
More importantly, mindfulness meditation – with or without the assistance of a game – is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety and stress while gaming. Whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed by a particularly challenging game, try to take a few moments to meditate and focus on the present moment. Doing this can help to create a more calm and centered experience.
Video games are showing us that engaging with the right kinds of digital worlds can provide mental health benefits. If used for constructive, meaningful play, the limitless possibilities of video gaming for good make it a tool that no mental health professional can ignore. Together, we can enrich our lives by harnessing the power of gaming, and build a future where fun is made even better by the positive effects it can have on one’s wellbeing.
For many years, the concept of gaming for good has been at the forefront of the video game industry. This concept, or idea, has been used to develop various forms of entertainment, educational content, as well as to promote positive mental health objectives. As games become increasingly sophisticated in terms of graphics, sound, and complexity, it has become apparent that gaming can be harnessed as a powerful tool to help people cope with mental health issues.
According to the CDC, more than one in five adults in the United States have reported some form of mental illness, such as depression and anxiety. Such conditions can severely impact a person’s day-to-day life and negatively affect overall well-being. Fortunately, recent research has revealed that video games are able to provide forms of mental stimulation that can help mitigate such mental health issues.
One of the primary ways in which video games can be beneficial for mental health is by offering a creative and stimulating outlet for individuals. Gaming gives players the opportunity to explore different worlds and engage with alternate characters. Through video games, players can literally become someone else, or explore a new environment, as a form of escapism from their daily struggles. Along with providing more creative outlets, video games also facilitate enhanced cognitive and motor performance. While video games are often criticized for being no more than a leisure activity, they can inspire gamers to become more strategic thinkers and help foster better problem-solving skills.
Moreover, another great benefit of gaming for good is its ability to foster stronger social bonds. Many modern video games have online communities which help gamers connect and interact with one another, providing them with a support system which would otherwise be lacking. Being connected to others, even if it’s through a virtual medium, has been known to reduce the impact of mental health problems, while helping the gamer build and maintain meaningful relationships.
In conclusion, gaming for good has been proven to be an effective tool for helping people cope with mental health issues. In the past few years, developers have been creating more sophisticated and creative games which have the potential to better one’s mental health. With its ability to stimulate the creative mind, improve cognitive performance, and foster social bonds, video games are now being broadly utilized to help improve the mental health and wellbeing of individuals.