The results of a recent study indicate that there is no correlation between gameplay and mental wellbeing, though extreme levels of play could have an effect. Because researchers did not collect data on individual gaming sessions, there may have been errors logged. But these results still debunk the fears of the gaming community that gaming contributes to poor mental health. So, is there really a link between gaming and poor mental health? The answer is probably not.

Anxiety

A new study has ruled out a causal link between video games and poor mental health. Researchers conducted surveys of 39,000 players and measured their overall wellbeing over the course of six weeks. They used seven popular video games to assess whether there was a link between gaming and poor mental health. However, the researchers did find a significant difference between gamers who play for recreational purposes and those who play to compete. While it’s too early to draw any firm conclusions, more studies will be needed to understand the exact nature of the relationship between gaming and poor mental health.

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Depression

Researchers have concluded that there’s no direct link between playing video games and a player’s wellbeing. While extreme levels of gameplay can impact a gamer’s mental health, the findings show that gaming alone isn’t the problem. The study didn’t collect data on individual gaming sessions, which may have resulted in logging errors. However, it does refute previous fears that video games cause a general link between poor mental health and playing them.

Suicidal thoughts

While many people enjoy playing violent video games and feel a sense of belonging to them, they may also develop suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The association between violent video game usage and suicidal ideation is not conclusive, but it may exist. People who frequently engage in this behavior may seek an escape from their distress, which may make them feel like they can’t live without them.

Anxiety disorder

There is no direct link between gaming and anxiety disorder. However, many people who play video games lose out on real-life friendships and social activities. People who play video games as a way to escape from reality often neglect their real-life responsibilities and relationships. While video games do not cause anxiety, it can exacerbate anxiety when it is a means of escaping from real-life problems.

Video game addiction

Although there are several studies describing a link between video game addiction and poor mental health, few have contextualized these relationships and identified mediating factors. In this study, we examined the role of coping strategies in determining video game addiction. An international sample of 552 participants completed an online survey containing the Computer Addiction-Engagement Scale (CATS), Depression, Anxiety Stress Scale (DAS), and Approach/Avoidance Coping Questionnaire.