We tend to think of gaming as a fun leisure activity, a bit of a release from the day to day grind. But what other benefits does it have? Well apparently, gaming can almost be a form of therapy! Helping you feel better in so many ways and lifting your mood. I have been doing a little research as I really needed a boost in my life.

I thought I would try out the games on Plays.org, I used to game very regularly before having the boys. But now they are avid gamers themselves I have more free time to return to something I used to be very passionate about and got much enjoyment from. Also, I need something to distract me right now and this site was the perfect place. Gaming can be the ideal support tool when you are going through something difficult.

Gaming gets a lot of bad press, talking about addiction and how some people start to avoid daily activities in favour of being screen based! But it actually can do a lot of good!

Mental Resilience

Gaming is beneficial for your mental health, apparently the goal orientated structure can build mental resilience. That even includes the games you find frustrating, the fact you keep trying to complete a level helps you become resilient! Gaming gives you a dopamine rush which can make you more motivated and goal orientated. You feel accomplished and assured of your abilities.

I liked getting stuck into Pipe Mania, I wanted to keep going through as many levels as possible! You only have a few seconds before the water starts coming so you have to quickly change the layout of the pipes! This was level 6, and it goes to level 60 so I am sure I will have lots more challenging layouts ahead of me. I can’t wait to conquer them.

Improved Planning Skills

Playing games like connect 4 online can help you plan ahead. It’s good to get in the habit of forward planning understanding when you have to adjust your game-play to block your opponent and always looking for the opportunity to win. These strategy skills make it a good brain game.

Better Wellbeing

Gamers reported greater wellbeing. They had less depressed moods than people who didn’t game at all. For some it’s the social element of gaming, but I actually prefer the games on Plays.org as I just want the escape not to chat to other people. When I used to play World of Warcraft there were times it wouldn’t be a good experience, other players could impact my play, stealing loot or leaving mid raid!

Builds Confidence

All that dopamine in your system from gaming makes you feel happy and enthusiastic. You start to feel better about yourself and more confident.

Decrease Anxiety

Anxiety can be very isolating; you can feel withdrawn from the world around you. However, gaming can be a good distraction from those unhelpful inner thoughts. Some card games like solitaire are a great way to relieve stress and exercise your mind at the same time. Anxiety makes you feel you cannot do anything. But with gaming you can achieve whatever you want. It can distance you from the negativity you’re feeling about your life. Instead you are connected with the here and now.

Makes You Smarter

Those who game tend to have longer attention spans and can be better at cognitive tasks. Now I am in my forties its probably a good idea to try and keep my brain active. Fast paced action games are considered especially beneficial!

I would love to continue to write in more depth about how beneficial gaming is! However, I have more levels of Pipe Mania to complete! Why not have a look at Plays.org yourself, there are so many different categories of game to play. Simulation games are a firm favourite of mine so after Pipe Mania I will probably spend some time there.