Growing dialogue and commentary exists about how video games are helpful for one’s well being! Growing up in the US in the 1990s, I heard many different views and perspectives about how video games were not good for one’s well being. With further reflection and commentaries from organizations like Geek Therapeutics and WebMD, it has been noted that many benefits can be had from the world of video gaming.
Some of the benefits of playing video games with healthy boundaries and expectations can include the following:
Improved mental outlook: In the process of playing a video game, I’ve had the experience of feeling energized, accomplished when I finish a game task and in various situations less sad and anxious. Depending on the game, I can have a tangible sense of emotional awareness or insight into a personal circumstance through the storytelling found in a video game. Other times, playing a video game can help me feel less stressed because I worked out my pent up frustration through a gaming process.
Symptom management: With so many genres of video games available, the experience of playing a video game has the potential to do gratifying and reparative work when we put effort into something and solve the game’s plot. For others, video games can act as distractions from pain and psychological trauma for mental health experiences like anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Increased socialization: Through video gaming there are also opportunities to socialize and connect with others. In the midst of collaborating through a video game, conversations about gaming dynamics can be navigated as a means to solve problems through the platform. Thus, in gameplay, team building and cooperation can be fostered which can be applied in day-to-day life. Additionally, interacting with others on video games can give players a chance to practice and develop skills to relate to others in the community.
A few considerations if you’re new to this idea would be to consider the following:
Choose your game wisely: Depending on the genre of game, some players may find deep growth and gratification. That same game can be triggering or stressful for others. Be thoughtful about your choices and as needed, try a game out or watch a YouTube review to see if the game is a good fit for you.
Setting limits: A pitfall I can fall into when playing video games is playing them for too long. Late night or unplanned gameplay can impact my sleep, cause me to be late to an event or cause irritability after playing. Start playing a game for a shorter period of time and take stock of how it impacts you afterwards.
If you’re not sure about whether video games are a good format for you to work through feelings or develop skills to manage mental health, talk with your therapist - they would be a great ally in navigating this topic.
On a related note: For those readers who have gaming experience (specifically with Dungeons and Dragons), you might consider signing up for our Dungeons & Dragons Therapy Group. Lou will lead campaigns in this 10 week group for adults who have experience playing DnD in person via a campaign who wish to explore a therapeutic version with a therapist as the DM. See the support groups page on our website for more information.
Lou Lim, LMHC, REAT is a licensed mental health counselor and registered expressive arts therapist (REAT) with a master's degree in Expressive Therapy and Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. He is a member of the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association and on the committee for REAT credentialing. He has 13 years of experience in counseling and expressive therapy working with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and retirees.
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