Around the world, billions of people enjoy playing video games. At the same time, there’s a growing concern about mental health. This raises an important question: What’s the connection between the two?
It’s a complicated issue. Some studies suggest that video games can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression. Other research indicates that video games may even improve mental health by helping people feel more relaxed and connected to others.
While video games may offer certain benefits, excessive or problematic gaming may contribute to or worsen anxiety and depression in some people. Let’s take a closer look at whether and how video games can cause anxiety and depression.
The complex relationship between video games and mental health
The research on video games and mental health is mixed. It’s not as simple as saying video games cause anxiety and depression.
Video games as a coping mechanism
Many people use video games as a way to cope with real-world problems. Gaming provides a temporary escape from negative emotions and stressful situations. If you’re being bullied at school or struggling with body image issues, video games can provide a welcome distraction.
Video games can also foster a sense of community and provide recreational enjoyment. LAN parties are a perfect example of the positive recreational aspects of gaming. You get to socialize, have fun, and share your hobby with friends.
Potential negative impacts of excessive gaming
While gaming can be a healthy coping mechanism in moderation, excessive gaming can have negative consequences. Excessive gaming can lead to dopamine exhaustion, emotional suppression, and a lack of motivation. It can be a slippery slope.
Problematic gaming has been linked to maladaptive coping strategies, negative emotions, low self-esteem, a preference for being alone, and poor school performance. It can take over your life.
Excessive video game use can also contribute to depressive symptoms and other mental health issues like anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. It’s important to be mindful of how much time you’re spending gaming and how it’s affecting your overall well-being.
Can video games cause or worsen depression?
It’s important to start by saying that research hasn’t confirmed that video games directly cause clinical depression. But many studies have found a correlation between video games and depression.
Problematic gaming can definitely make someone unhappy and reduce their overall quality of life. If someone is already struggling with depression, excessive gaming can make it worse. This may be because excessive gaming leads to dopamine exhaustion, emotional suppression, and a lack of motivation to engage in other activities that could improve someone’s mood.
Violent video games and depression
Some research has found a correlation between violent video games and depressive symptoms, especially in younger kids. One study found that playing high-violence games for more than 2 hours each day was associated with higher depressive symptoms in preadolescent kids.
The researchers suggested that violent video game content may have a similar impact on depressive symptoms as other types of violent media.
Gaming addiction and depression
People addicted to gaming are twice as likely to be depressed as people who don’t game. Experts say that gaming addiction involves dopamine, which is sometimes called the “triumph circuit.” Gaming can also be a way to suppress negative emotions, which could lead to alexithymia (difficulty identifying and expressing emotions).
Video games and anxiety
Video games can be a great way to relax and unwind, but they can also cause or worsen anxiety for some people.
Gaming as a trigger for anxiety
When you’re playing a competitive video game, you might feel pressure to perform well. That pressure can trigger anxiety. Some games have themes or content that can cause anxiety in people who are already vulnerable to it.
Social anxiety and online gaming
For some people, video games provide a way to connect with others. However, it’s also possible that online gaming can make social anxiety worse.
If you spend most of your time interacting with others online, you might not develop the skills you need to handle real-world social situations.
The role of screen time
Too much screen time can contribute to anxiety and sleep problems, regardless of what you’re viewing.
The blue light that screens emit can affect the amount of melatonin your body produces, which can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. That lack of sleep can then contribute to anxiety.
The upside: Potential benefits of video games
It’s easy to focus on the downsides of video games, but there are some potential benefits to consider, too.
- Cognitive benefits: Playing video games can improve your problem-solving skills, reaction time, and spatial reasoning.
- Social benefits: Online games create communities and opportunities to connect with other people.
- Emotional benefits: Gaming can be a stress reliever, help you relax, and give you a sense of accomplishment, but for other relaxing methods, consider trying stress relief tea.
But it’s important to remember that you’re most likely to get these benefits if you play video games in moderation and still make time for other activities.
Spotting and addressing problematic gaming
It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your video gaming habits. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Recognizing the signs of gaming addiction
Some signs of gaming addiction include:
- Thinking about gaming all the time
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you can’t game, like irritability, anxiety, or sadness
- Needing to play longer and longer to feel the same level of enjoyment
- Feeling like you can’t control how much you play
- Ignoring other activities and responsibilities to play video games
Some people may have Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). The American Psychiatric Association recognizes IGD as a condition needing more research. If you’re concerned about your gaming habits, talk to a mental health professional.
Strategies for managing gaming habits
Here are some ways to manage your gaming habits:
- Set time limits for gaming and stick to them. Use a timer or an app to help you stay on track.
- Find other things you enjoy doing, like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family.
- Talk to friends, family, or a therapist. They can offer support and help you develop coping strategies.
Screen time recommendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children and teens spend no more than two hours a day on screens (not counting homework). It’s a good idea to find fun things to do that don’t involve screens!
Getting help and treatment
If you think video games might be contributing to feelings of anxiety or depression, it’s important to get help from a mental health professional. Gaming addiction is complex, and a therapist can help you develop coping strategies that are tailored to your unique situation. It’s also worth noting that sometimes, mental health professionals will mistake gaming issues for depression, so it’s important to find someone who understands the nuances of both.
Finding a mental health professional
There are many ways to find a qualified therapist. Start with these:
- Use online directories like PsychologyToday, BetterHelp, or TalkSpace to find licensed professionals in your area.
- Call your insurance company and ask for a list of mental health providers who are in-network.
- Look into non-profit organizations like Rise Above the Disorder (RAD), which can provide financial aid to help you afford treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can gaming cause depression and anxiety?
The relationship between gaming and mental health is complex and not fully understood. While excessive or problematic gaming can be associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety, it’s rarely a direct cause. More often, gaming may exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions or serve as a coping mechanism for individuals already struggling with anxiety or depression. Factors like social isolation, sleep deprivation, and neglecting real-life responsibilities due to excessive gaming can contribute to these issues. However, many people enjoy video games without experiencing negative mental health consequences, and some games can even offer social connection and stress relief.
Why do video games trigger my anxiety?
Several factors can contribute to video games triggering anxiety. Competitive games can create pressure to perform well, leading to feelings of stress and inadequacy. Some games contain intense or violent content that can be unsettling for sensitive individuals. The immersive nature of video games can also blur the lines between reality and the virtual world, causing feelings of disorientation or detachment. Additionally, the fast-paced action and complex challenges in some games can be overwhelming and trigger anxiety symptoms. If you consistently experience anxiety while gaming, it may be helpful to explore the specific triggers and consider strategies like taking breaks, choosing less stressful games, or seeking support from a therapist.
To conclude
The relationship between video games and mental health is complicated. It’s not as simple as saying video games cause anxiety and depression. For many people, video games are a fun way to relax and socialize.
However, excessive or problematic gaming can contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression. If gaming is interfering with your relationships, your work, or your ability to take care of yourself, it may be time to reassess your habits.
Moderation is key. Try to find a healthy balance between gaming and other activities you enjoy. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, and spending time with friends and family in real life. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
Research into the effects of video games on mental health is ongoing. As technology evolves and gaming becomes even more integrated into our lives, it’s important to continue learning about its potential impact — both positive and negative — on our well-being. Prioritizing your mental health is always the best game plan, especially considering technology’s negative effects on health.