Gaming for Mental Health: Can Video Games Be Good for You?


By Ivonne Wijaya · Updated 29 September 2024

Hello, Gamify enthusiasts! 👋

Did you know that playing video games can actually be beneficial for you?

Gaming is a solid form of entertainment in this modern era. The increasing number of players in gaming platforms shows that games are appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds. While most people assume that games tend to have a bad effect on people’s mental health, games actually have significant advantages that are worth addressing.

Let’s explore deeper into how gaming can improve your mental health!

Stress Relief at Your Fingertips 🌈

Contrary to popular beliefs, games have been proven to be an effective way to manage stress. This is supported by a study done by Veeral et al., 2021, which found that playing a casual video game is an effective strategy to reduce stress.

So, if you had a rough day today, playing a relaxing video game after a long day of school or work can be your instant mood booster! One of the most impressive things about gaming is its ability to transport you into another world. It gives the impression of escaping reality even for a short while. Casually exploring a new fantasy world or building a new world in your video game can have a meaningful effect on your stress levels.

Boosting Your Mood: The Power of Achievement 🥳

Do you know the feeling of accomplishment after achieving something? Video games are great platforms to experience that sense of accomplishment through completing simple tasks, such as finishing in-game missions or unlocking a new challenging level. These little wins give you a burst of dopamine, a hormone that makes you feel better. It’s like a sort of motivation from the game that inspires you to keep going!

Problem-Solving Skills: Level Up Your Brain 🧩🕹️

A lot of popular games—SimCity, Minecraft, and Portal—challenge you to think critically, make quick decisions, and adapt to new situations, sharpening your problem-solving skills. Even Gamify.fun games, like The Last Piece, challenge you to think outside the box. So the next time someone tells you that gaming is a waste of time, remind them that you’re basically training your brain to be a problem-solving machine. 🧠🚀

Building Resilience: Learning to Bounce Back After Defeat 💥🚶‍♂️

Let’s face it: losing is part of the game. No one can win all the time in video games, which sometimes can be stressful. However, each defeat is a chance to learn, improve your skills, and get better at the game! This resilience—the ability to get back up after multiple setbacks— is a valuable life skill that needs to be honed. Next time, don’t sweat it when you lose a game, you’re just building up your mental toughness! 🛡️

A Safe Space for Expression and Creativity

If you ever feel like you need the freedom to express yourself, gaming is one way to do it. From creating your own characters and putting on accessories and outfits according to your own style, to designing entire worlds, you can explore different parts of your own personality without any judgment.

Final Reflections: Gaming Mindfully 🎯

Despite the many advantages that gaming has to offer, it is important to keep in mind that balance is key. Finding the right time to play video games without neglecting everyday responsibilities is necessary. But don’t let anyone tell you that gaming is just a waste of time. The next time you pick up your controller, remember: you’re not just playing—you’re taking care of your mental health too. So go ahead, level up your mood, one game at a time! 🎉🕹️

Happy gaming! 🎮