With today’s technology being so accessible and prevalent, more and more people are turning to gaming as a form of entertainment. Video games are often portrayed in a negative light by the media, leading many to believe that it’s all about violent behavior and laziness. However, with the right moderation and understanding, gaming can actually be incredibly beneficial for your mental health.

First off, research has found that playing video games can have a calming and stress relieving effect. Whether it’s the challenge found in a specific mission or the achievements associated with progressing in the game, gaming can provide an individual with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Games can also promote positive social interaction, as many focus on teamwork; in this way, players are able to grow and develop their social skills while concurrently having fun. Furthermore, playing video games can help sharpen certain cognitive skills such as problem solving. In a study conducted by Michigan State University, scientists have found that gamers perform 10 percent better than non-gamers when it comes to problem solving tasks. This can especially be beneficial for aging individuals who are looking to increase and improve their mental faculties.

Overall, gaming isn’t all doom and gloom. It’s important to take advantage of moderation activities in order to keep yourself focused and motivated. Games can provide great benefits to those who utilize and understand their potential. Additionally, it’s a great way to connect with friends and family, provide a source of psychological relief, and even sharpen your skills and cognitive abilities. So the next time you’re looking for an entertaining and beneficial activity, consider taking a few moments to sit down and play a video game.