Video games have long been maligned as an unhealthy distraction, a complete wastage of time that do nothing but foment feelings of inertia and disenchantment. Ironically, however, some medical experts now argue that video games can actually be an asset to mental health, citing various studies.
Skeptics are often surprised to learn that medical experts promote the idea of 'video game therapy', not simply as a particular de-stressing device, but also as a means of treating disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Evidence to support this is plentiful, and therapies are particularly promising for aiding with connection to the physical world, virtual community engagement, distraction from stressors, entertainment, and increased positive emotion.
Although video game therapy is generally hailed as advantageous, we should carefully investigate both the benefits and drawbacks. To start, video game power-hours should not replace physical therapy, as the virtual world can not create lasting relaxation. Moreover, mental health experts concur that gaming should be only used in healthy amounts, and should never be permitted to transition from therapeutic to addictive.
Despite the potential risks, many feel that video game therapy confers opportunities for emotional, mental, and even physical health. Networks like Twitch allow us to build relationships and access support, while many games encourage self-management of emotions (such as fear, stress, and anger), problem solving, and even enhanced social skills.
It is important to note that video gaming is not necessarily a replacement for other forms of therapy but rather a tool, like physical exercise or yoga, which can be beneficial for managing mental health. As such, including video game power-hours as part of comprehensive mental health strategies could be the right decision for many—just be sure to avoid the urge to find your soulmate in the virtual world!