Gaming is a form of interactive electronic entertainment using video game consoles, computer hardware or mobile devices. It can range from single-player adventures like The Legend of Zelda to multiplayer madness in Minecraft and many games allow players to explore virtual worlds at their own pace. In addition to gaming’s entertainment value, it can also be used as a medium for storytelling and artistic expression. It is estimated that close to 3 billion people now play video games, and research continues to investigate the impact of gaming on well-being. While some argue that video games harm well-being, a growing number of studies and initiatives highlight the potential of gaming to promote mental health, equip healthcare professionals with innovative tools, and assist in overcoming physical challenges.

The positive impacts of gaming include increased social interaction, improved cognition and problem-solving, and enhanced creativity. However, some negative effects may include a lack of focus on academic work or social interactions, poor sleep patterns, and depressive symptoms. Gaming can also cause or contribute to the development of repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, which develops when repetitive movements over a long period of time can damage the tendons and nerves in the hands and arms. It can lead to numbness, pain, and weakness and is one of the most common workplace health problems.

Other concerns relate to the potential for addiction and excessive screen time, as well as a negative impact on health behaviors such as physical activity, healthy eating, and sleeping habits. Additionally, gaming can interfere with face-to-face family and friend relationships. It can also be a distraction in the classroom, leading to decreased academic achievement and social isolation.

Gaming can be a fun way to relax or challenge yourself, but it is important to keep it in balance with other activities in life, such as studying, socializing, and playing sports. Taking breaks from gaming can help reduce fatigue and stress, as well as improve your overall mood. If you feel that your gaming is having a negative impact on your quality of life, consider speaking with a therapist.

Psychiatric care can address both the addictive and non-addictive aspects of gaming by teaching healthy coping skills, improving sleep patterns, promoting physical activity, encouraging social interaction, and helping to find alternatives to video gaming. The Digital Wellness Lab is continuing to develop a more nuanced model of how game content and context affects well-being and hopes to see this work expand to understudied populations such as older adults. To help you understand how gaming impacts your mental health, try keeping a journal to record how you are feeling throughout the day and how much time you spend playing video games. Keeping a log of your mood and gaming habits can provide insight into whether or not you are using gaming as a form of self-medication or to overcome depression, anxiety or other health issues. If you are struggling with depression or are concerned about a loved one, speak to a mental health professional for support.