How to use video games to relax and recharge your mental health meter.
Video games sometimes get a bad rap. It is thought that video games lead to a lack of productivity, violence, and a sedentary lifestyle. While it is possible that those may be true as one can spend hours playing a rage inducing game while never spending any time outdoors. But as long as you are able to create a healthy balance between gaming and touching grass, then you’ll be fine.
So, what can games do for you?
Games can improve your cognitive skills. There are a lot of games out there with a puzzle aspect. The Legend of Zelda, Carto, The Last Campfire, and Baldur’s Gate 3 to name a few. These types of games require strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision making and these games can help you enhance your attention, working memory, problem-solving skills, and mental flexibility.
Games can improve creativity. Sandbox or building games like Minecraft, Terraria, or the Sims are games that you can explore and build in. In these types of games, players can design and create their worlds in their own way and this can simulate the imagination and provide an outlet for artistic expression.
Games can be a source of stress relief. Games allow players to temporarily escape from the stressors of real life. This can give players a distraction while being absorbed in playing. While engaging in a stress reduction activity, one should stop worrying about real life until their activity is over. Escaping life has always been thought of as something that you shouldn’t do, but a temporary escape will help you refresh and recharge.
Games can help you form connections. Games like World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XIV, Fortnite, or Minecraft can help you make friends. Socializing within and outside of the game can help provide a support system and reduce feelings of isolation. These gaming communities can help give you a support system and help reduce feelings of isolation.
Games can give you a sense of accomplishment. Games are filled with all sorts of goals. Beat the boss, collect the coins, solve the puzzle, survive, get the highest score, win, the list goes on. Completing these tasks and achieving these goals can help boost confidence and self-esteem. If you’re able to beat a game’s goals on the hardest setting, what is keeping you from beating life goals too?
They can help you have fun. There are still many people that think that video games are for kids. They think that we should put away our “toys” and do “adult” things. You know, the boring adult things like working a job we hate, paying bills, and starting a family. But, what’s the point of life if we can’t do fun things? So go out there, pick up a video game, have fun, and be happy.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this mental health blog is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified mental health professional for personalized guidance. The blog owner and authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided on this blog.
If you are in a crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or visit your local Emergency Room for assistance.
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