How Playing Online Games Can Reduce Stress
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Stress is something that many people can relate to. According to the Mental Health Foundation, a whopping 74% of people in the UK have suffered from stress in the past year alone. And that stress has been so prominent that it has made it hard for them to cope and left them feeling overwhelmed. That is a significant statistic and one that deserves attention. One of the most important things to glean from this statistic is that more needs to be done to help combat stress.
So, let’s say that stress is something you suffer from time to time, or maybe more regularly. Maybe it affects your ability to do your job well or your relationships at home. While there are different measures you can take to reduce stress, one you may want to try that you hadn’t even thought of is online gaming. That’s right, a simple and fun activity can give you some of the relief you’re after.
Here’s a closer look at how playing online games can reduce your level of stress and give you that mental break that you need.
It Acts as a Mental Escape
While there are several ways that video games can act as a stress relief, it is the fact that they provide a mental escape that is especially important. A study was conducted in 2020 by a Canadian University – University of Saskatchewan – that looked at this exact topic, finding that it provides ‘psychological detachment’ from all the stress and what’s happening in your life. Even though it’s just temporary relief, it’s relief all the same.
One of the hallmarks of stress is feeling like your life is out of control. When people are playing video games, they are in control of their actions, they can manipulate the results, and this can feel empowering – fighting stress in the process.
These benefits were seen across many age groups too, not just adults. These same video games were able to provide kids with that mental relief and distraction that is so important.
Some Games Have a Social Aspect
For anyone that lives on their own, it can be especially hard to go through stressful times. You don’t have another person there with you who can be empathetic and understanding, listen to you vent, and provide you with companionship. This is why online games can be useful, as many have a social aspect.
There are all kinds of online games that offer a live chat feature you can use to converse with players from around the world. You’ll be connected to a built-in community anytime you feel like it. It may be all you need to fill that social craving you have. And remember, there are always people online, so you’re never going to find yourself alone.
Gaming for Long Periods Can Feel Similar to Meditation
Did you know that when you are gaming for any substantial amount of time, you are lulled into a state of mind that is very similar to meditation? You’re repeating the same actions, you’re focused only on the game, and everything else fades away. You are in living in the moment, just like with meditation.
There Is Also the Enjoyment and Entertainment Factor
You can’t discount the fact that video games also have a high enjoyment and entertainment factor. Laughter and joy can have profound results on your state of mind, so if a video game can create those types of emotions, you can expect to have positive benefits. There is also never a chance to get bored as new games are released all the time, so there is always the latest and greatest to check out.
Include Online Casinos in the Mix
As you look for some fun and exciting games that you can escape into, don’t forget to check out the online casinos. These are meant to provide you with the same experience you’d get at a brick-and-mortar casino but with a whole lot more options and features. You’ll be able to hit the casino any time the mood strikes, whether for a quick couple of games or an evening of casino action.
To help you find the best of the best in terms of online casinos be sure to check out onlinecasinos.co.uk which provides a ranking of all the top sites. You’ll find key information on each of the casinos listed, including details on any welcome bonuses they offer. Because each of the casinos has been tested, you know that they will be reliable, secure and safe for you.
The great thing about these online casinos is that they offer all the games you know and love including video slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, baccarat and more. It will feel familiar and fun, immersing you in the action and distracting you from your stress.
What are the Best Online Games?
While browser-based games such as online casinos are a great option, don’t forget that today’s consoles all offer online gaming. This provides you with the opportunity to play some of the hottest titles out there in an online environment with other players from around the world. This is where the social aspect comes into play.
Some of the best games you can play online through the PlayStation, Xbox or the Nintendo Switch include:
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- Fortnite
- Minecraft
- Forza Horizon 4
- Overwatch
- Call of Duty: Warzone
- Gears 5
There is a little something for all ages and preferences on this list, which means you should find something that appeals to you. It also depends on your gaming style, how competitive of a gamer you are and what you consider to be fun.
If you are constantly fighting with stress and are looking for a way to reduce it, you may want to give online gaming a try. While it’s not going to be a solution for all your worries, it can certainly provide you with that much-needed break and allow you to relax for a little while.
