The Pros and Cons of Playing Video Games: A Therapist's Take on Mental Health

As a mental health therapist, I get a lot of questions about video games and their impact on mental health. I get it—video games are a huge part of life for so many people, whether it’s a casual hobby or a serious passion. But like anything, they come with their ups and downs. So let’s chat about how gaming can affect your mental health.

Benefits of Video Games

1. Stress Relief and Relaxation
Let’s face it, sometimes life can be overwhelming, and video games can be a great way to hit pause for a bit. Games provide a fun escape, whether you're exploring a fantasy world, solving puzzles, or just unwinding with a chill game. It’s a way to give your brain a break and reduce stress. For many, it’s the perfect distraction after a long day.

2. Boosting Cognitive Skills
A lot of video games make you think on your feet. From strategy games to brain teasers, gaming can actually help improve problem-solving, memory, and reaction times. So, if you’re looking to sharpen your brain while having fun, gaming might just be the way to go.

3. Social Connection
Believe it or not, video games can actually help you connect with others. Online games allow you to team up, chat, and even build friendships. For some, this can be a great way to feel more socially connected, especially if socializing in person can be a bit tricky. It’s a chance to bond over shared interests, which can help with feelings of loneliness or isolation.

4. Feeling Accomplished
Video games often come with a system of rewards—levels, achievements, or just completing a challenging part of the game. These small wins can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your confidence. It’s a reminder that you can overcome obstacles, even if they’re just in a game.

My Own Experience with Gaming

I’ve used video games to help myself unwind and improve my mental health, too. One of my favorites has always been Fallout. If you’ve ever played it, you know that the world-building and questing are just absorbing. There was a time when I was feeling particularly stressed and overwhelmed with life’s demands, and diving into the Fallout universe really helped me take my mind off things.

The sense of exploration and accomplishment I felt in the game was a real boost. It was like a reset button for my brain. Whether I was navigating the post-apocalyptic world or figuring out ways to complete a tough mission, the problem-solving aspect was strangely calming. It gave me a sense of control and achievement that was sometimes missing in my real-life routine.

I loved the mini stories within the game that made the world feel more complete and fully realized. Finding the little easter eggs in some of the terminals gave me such joy while playing that it make the terminal hacking feel almost worth it.

It wasn’t just the game itself, either—it was the space it provided to mentally recharge. I was able to step away from the pressure of everyday life, and when I came back to reality, I felt a bit more grounded.

Potential Downsides of Video Games

1. Too Much Screen Time
The downside of gaming? It can easily eat up a lot of time. And if you’re spending hours in front of a screen, it might mean less time socializing in person or doing other things that are good for your mental health. If gaming starts to feel like an escape from life, it can lead to feelings of isolation or even make things like anxiety or depression worse.

2. Stress and Frustration
Not all gaming experiences are relaxing. Some games are downright frustrating, especially if you're stuck on a tough level or feeling competitive. If you're not careful, this can turn into stress or anxiety, and in some cases, even lead to anger. It’s all fun and games until the game gets the best of you, right?

3. Gaming Addiction
While it’s great to blow off some steam with a video game, some people might start using gaming as a way to avoid real-world problems. If gaming becomes a way to escape from difficult emotions or responsibilities, it can become an unhealthy coping mechanism. That’s when it’s time to take a step back and reflect on how gaming is affecting your life.

4. Impact on Sleep
Who hasn’t stayed up late trying to finish a game or level up? Unfortunately, gaming late into the night can mess with your sleep schedule. The blue light from screens can make it harder to fall asleep, and poor sleep can affect your mood, energy, and even your mental clarity the next day.

Finding a Balance

Here’s the thing: video games, like anything else, are all about balance. They can be a great way to relax, connect with others, and exercise your brain. But if you notice that gaming is taking up too much of your time or making you feel more stressed or isolated, it might be time to re-evaluate.

I’ve been there. I understand how tempting it is to get lost in the worlds within video games and avoiding the distressing parts of life. There is a way to find that balance without necessarily having to give up something that brings you joy.

If you ever find yourself feeling off because of your gaming habits, or if you just want to talk about how to strike a better balance, I’m here to help. Therapy isn’t just about processing emotions—it’s also about finding practical ways to improve your overall well-being. If you’d like to chat more about this or anything else, schedule a consultation call with me today. Let’s find ways to make your life and your mental health work together, both in and outside of the gaming world.