Video games have this amazing ability to let us escape negative emotions and suppress them. It’s like diving into a whole new world where we can leave our worries behind. But here’s the catch—can video games be bad for our mental health? We talked to some scientists to get the psychological truth.

You know what’s interesting? Turns out, video games can have a similar effect on our brains as meditation. When we meditate, it calms the fear center in our brain, called the amygdala, and causes it to shrink. Well, guess what? Video games can do the same thing! They have the power to change our mental pathways and provide a distraction from fear or anxiety. Pretty cool, right?

But let’s not ignore the darker side of the story. According to one researcher, around 5 million people in the United States alone have Internet gaming disorder. This condition can lead to the loss of relationships, career opportunities, and more. It’s a real concern that we shouldn’t brush aside.

So, are video games good or bad for our mental health? Well, as with many things in life, it’s not a clear-cut answer. To shed some light on the matter, we reached out to two scientific experts who have studied this extensively.

When it comes to mental health, video games can actually have some positive effects. Take Jane McGonigal, for example. After experiencing a traumatic brain injury, she created a game called ‘Super Better’ to help herself and others. By working together towards a common goal, players can increase their social resilience. Games like Minecraft, World of Warcraft, and other massively multiplayer online (MMO) games foster meaningful connections and give players a sense of purpose.

Moreover, video games can provide a low-stakes outlet for people to blow off steam when they’re frustrated with school or work. In fact, some therapists even use digital gaming as a tool for “play therapy” to encourage their clients to open up and express themselves.

Another significant benefit is that video games can combat feelings of isolation. Especially during times of global lockdown and quarantines, virtual socializing through games has been a lifeline for many. It’s not surprising that the video game industry saw a 73% growth in sales in just one year. Virtual worlds offer a respite from daily worries and can help us cope better with seemingly impossible situations.

Now, let’s talk about the potential downsides. The problem arises when video games become an obsession. Excessive gameplay, spending over 20 hours a week on games, can lead to Internet gaming disorder. This disorder has been around since the early days of arcade games but has become more prevalent with the rise of immersive and rewarding game structures.

Kyle Faust, a researcher at the University of Rhode Island, likens video game addiction to gambling for some players. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders recognizes Internet gaming disorder as a legitimate diagnosis. To qualify, a person must exhibit five features for over 12 months, including emotional withdrawal, loss of interest in other activities, and using gaming as an escape from negative moods.

It’s crucial to note that escapism through video games has its limits. While they can distract us from fear and anxiety, relying on them as a long-term solution is not healthy. Negative emotions serve as powerful teachers for our brains. If we completely suppress them through gaming, we miss out on important lessons and opportunities for personal growth. It’s like never touching a hot stove again after getting burned—the pain taught us a valuable lesson.

Interestingly, studies suggest that video games can contribute to lower rates of depression, but only when played in moderation. Relationships can flourish online if players maintain a healthy balance. But as the hours of gameplay increase, loneliness rises, and social competence decreases. Excessive gaming can negatively impact existing relationships and even harm one’s career.

So, are video games good or bad for our mental health? Well, it’s not a simple answer. According to Faust, digital games have fictional content, but the consequences of excessive play are real and deserve our attention. On the other hand, Kanojia believes that healthy gaming can actually help the Internet generation succeed.

In the end, it’s important to find a balance. Gameplay can be therapeutic and provide benefits for our social skills and mental resilience. Humans are social creatures, and playing games online can offer solace to those feeling alone. However, relying on virtual worlds to escape negative emotions in the long term is not a healthy solution. Just like any other vice, excessive gameplay can tear apart our social and emotional lives if left unchecked.