Video Games and Mental Health: The Good and the Bad

Whether they’re exploring mythical lands in World of Warcraft, battling friends in Fortnite, or building towns in Animal Crossing, there’s no denying that tons of teens and young adults love playing video games. In fact, one survey found that 85% of middle and high school students played video games in the last year. 

Although video games allow young people to explore fantasy worlds, get creative, and challenge their friends online, gaming’s pervasive impact on our culture may not be solely beneficial. According to one report, a whopping 86% of parents think their kids spend too much time gaming, citing concerns about their children’s sleep, social interactions, and mood. Gaming has become a huge part of our culture, but what does that mean for mental health? 

Just like any other form of entertainment, video games have the power to impact mental health. So many factors play into the effect that gaming has on someone’s mental health. For example, do they have a healthy social life? Do they struggle with any mental health conditions? What kind of game are they playing? How many hours a week or day are they playing? Let’s dive into both the potential negative and positive effects of video games. 

The negative effects of video games on mental health

In recent years, video games have been under scrutiny for potentially worsening gamers’ mental health, and video game “addiction” has become a big concern. Research shows that excessive gaming can lead to negative mental health consequences. 

Here are five adverse mental health outcomes that can be caused by video games:

1. Increased aggression

Many popular video games are violent in nature, requiring players to attack or kill other characters. While the research is mixed, some studies have suggested that violent video games can lead to increased aggression or aggressive behaviors. However, various external factors play a role in this, too.

2. Disrupted sleep

Gaming, especially excessive gaming, poses a threat to sleep quality. Many teens and young adults engage in long late-night gaming sessions, which can disrupt their sleep patterns, leading to less quality sleep. Getting good sleep is crucial for mental health, and if video games cause someone to experience sleep deprivation, this can negatively impact mental health and cause existing mental health conditions to worsen. 

3. Unhealthy escapism

Video games can serve as a fun escape from the pressures and challenges of everyday life. However, this can easily veer into unhealthy territory when young people spend too much time gaming. They may use video games to avoid facing their real-life challenges or emotions. Young people may develop an unhealthy dependence on this escapism, causing them to rely on video games more and more.

4. Depression

Problematic gaming behavior, such as gaming excessively, is linked to depression. If a young person is alone gaming for hours on end, ignoring their real-life friendships and connections, this can lead to isolation which is a risk factor for depression. Additionally, excessive escapism through video games is related to depression. 

Furthermore, researchers have found some evidence between depression and violent video games. According to one study, young people who played more than two hours of violent games every day had more depression symptoms than those who played non-violent games. 

5. Social anxiety

Social anxiety and excessive gaming sometimes go hand in hand. It goes both ways: young people with social anxiety may be more likely to play video games in a problematic way, and young people who game too much may experience increased social anxiety. If young people spend more time gaming than engaging in face-to-face interactions, this can fuel social anxiety and cause them to feel more comfortable playing video games rather than socializing in person. 

The more a young person engages in excessive gaming, the higher the risk of experiencing these negative effects. These impacts are more likely to affect people playing video games for multiple hours every day than casual gamers. 

What is internet gaming disorder (IGD)?

When discussing the negative effects of video games, it’s important to also discuss the risk of developing internet gaming disorder (IGD).

IGD is sometimes used interchangeably with the term “video game addiction.” For some gamers, gaming can become problematic and negatively impact their lives. They develop a behavioral addiction to playing video games, and this gets in the way of their functioning—at this point, someone might be diagnosed with IGD.

Some symptoms of IGD include:

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (irritability, anxiety, or sadness) when not gaming
• Consistently using video games as escapism 
• Lying to loved ones about how much time spent gaming
• Prioritizing gaming over relationships or other activities 
• Needing to spend more and more time gaming to feel the same pleasure
• Performing poorly at school or work due to excessive gaming
• Reducing time spent on personal hygiene and grooming
• Trying to relieve emotions like hopelessness or guilt by gaming
• Having trouble reducing gameplay or quitting games despite all of this

For a professional to diagnose someone with IGD they must exhibit multiple symptoms for over a year. In these cases, it’s crucial for the individual to seek mental health treatment. 

The link between neurodivergence and IGD

Since some neurodivergent people experience heightened sensory processing, intense focus on specific interests, and a preference for structured routines, certain aspects of gaming may be extra appealing to them. Put simply, the immersive and predictable nature of video games can be particularly appealing to neurodivergent people.

Some research has pointed to connections between neurodivergence and problematic video game usage. For example, some studies have shown that people with an autism spectrum disorder might be more likely to engage in excessive gaming –– potentially leading to an increased risk of IGD. Links have also been found between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and increased risk of IGD.

However, this does not mean neurodivergent people are guaranteed to play video games in a problematic manner. Many neurodivergent people healthily play video games and experience the benefits of online social connection and stress reduction. On the flip side, some neurotypical people play video games problematically. In short, neurodivergence isn’t the cause of problematic video game usage, but it can leave someone more disposed to excessive gaming.

The positive effects of video games on mental health

While concerns about the negative effects of video games on teen and young adult mental health are certainly valid, it’s important to recognize the potential positive impacts they can have. Some of the benefits might surprise you. Here are four potential benefits that playing video games can have on cognitive and mental health:

1. Improved problem-solving skills and creativity

Some video games can serve as a mini mental workout, stimulating the brain to work hard and find creative solutions. Many games involve critical thinking, strategizing, and solving complex, unique problems. Research has suggested that playing games that require creative problem-solving can improve individuals’ problem-solving skills and boost creativity.

2. Social connection

Although many adults view gaming as an isolating activity, many of today’s video games actually encourage social interaction. Even though teens may not be socializing with someone physically in the same room, they can chat with other players and work together as they play.

Online multiplayer video games enable teenagers to connect with friends in real life or new friends from the game. Gaming can reduce loneliness in some cases. However, it’s crucial for gamers to also have face-to-face social interactions outside of gaming.

3. Stress and anxiety relief

Many teens and young adults in Gen Z struggle with their mental health, experiencing higher rates of mental health concerns like anxiety. Video games, in moderation, can be a helpful stress reduction tool. Research has found that many types of games can help relieve anxiety.

Individuals can immerse themselves in gameplay, staying focused and present in the moment as they shift their attention away from their racing anxious thoughts. This can help them find a much-needed sense of calm. Due to their nature, “cozy games” that are cute, relaxing, and low-stakes may be especially helpful for stress relief, but researchers have found many different types of games to help people reduce anxiety.

4. Reduction of depression symptoms

Many Gen Z members struggle with depression, too, and playing video games in moderation can serve as a mood booster for depressed teens and young adults. Simply put, video games are fun –– and it’s important for everyone’s well-being to have fun. Some people with depression struggle to feel joy or pleasure, and playing video games may help bring these feelings back, at least temporarily. Also, people dealing with depression might also feel isolated, and the social interaction from multiplayer online games may help provide some relief.

Taking a balanced approach to gaming

As you can see, there’s research to support the argument that gaming negatively impacts mental health and the argument that it positively impacts mental health. So, if you or your loved one is a gamer, try to play video games in moderation so that you can reap the benefits while preventing some of the adverse effects. Some ways to do this are:

• Limit the number of hours spent playing video games
• Participate in other activities, such as sports or hobbies that don’t involve technology
• Foster in-person social interactions with friends and family
• Notice when too much time is spent gaming or if behavior becomes problematic
• Reach out for help if you notice signs of IGD

How Charlie Health can help

If you or someone you love is experiencing IGD or struggling with negative effects from video gaming, Charlie Health may be able to help.

Our virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides personalized mental health services for teens, young adults, and families dealing with various struggles, including different types of technology addictions and co-occurring conditions.

At Charlie Health, every client is matched with a therapist who fits their specific needs and a group of peers from similar backgrounds with similar struggles.

Contact Charlie Health to learn more today.