Study Finds Video Games Can Improve Mental Health with Moderation
Research involving nearly 100,000 participants in Japan shows positive mental health effects from gaming, but warns against excessive play.
- Owning a gaming console was linked to improved mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Participants who played video games reported lower stress levels and higher life satisfaction.
- Playing for more than three hours a day showed diminishing psychological benefits.
- The study used data from a natural experiment involving console lotteries during pandemic lockdowns.
- Researchers recommend further studies to confirm findings and explore long-term impacts.