Gaming habit can have profound and wide-ranging effects on mental health, often exacerbating existing conditions and contributing to the development of new psychological difficulties. Understanding these impacts is crucial for recognizing and addressing gaming craving before it leads to more serious consequences. 

Increased Anxiety and Stress 

Excessive gaming can worsen levels of anxiety and stress. The pressure to achieve in-game goals, maintain high rankings, or keep up with fast-paced gameplay can create chronic stress. Additionally, the neglect of real-life responsibilities and the negative consequences of excessing gaming-  such as strained relationships or poor performance at school or work- can add further stressors to an individuals’ life.  

Depression and escapism  

Depression is a common mental health issue associated with gaming habit. Many individuals use gaming as a means of escaping feelings of sadness, loneliness, or inadequacy. However, this reliance on gaming as a coping mechanism can ultimately worsen depression. As they become more isolated in the virtual world, individuals may become increasingly disconnected from real-life social support and activities, deepening the feelings of hopelessness. 

Social Isolation 

Gaming habits frequently leads to social withdrawal. Individuals may distance themselves from family and friends in favor of spending time with online gaming communities. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression, creating a cycle where gaming is used as a temporary escape from negative emotions, but that only intensifies those emotions in the long run.  

Impact on self-esteem and Performance   

The neglect of academic or work responsibilities due to excessive gaming can lead to poor performance which in turn can create significant stress. The resulting academic failure or job loss can severely damage self-esteem, contributing to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. 

Sleep disruption 

Irregular sleep patterns and insufficient sleep are common among individuals with gaming need. Late-night gaming sessions disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. This lack of sleep negatively impacts mood, cognitive function, and overall mental health, further compounding the effects of addiction. 

Cognitive impairment  

Excessive gaming can impair cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and decision-making. The overstimulation from prolonged online gaming sessions can make it difficult  to concentrate and focus on real-life tasks, affecting academic, professional and personal performance. These cognitive impairments can increase stress and frustration, creating a cycle of poor mental health.  

Aggressivity and irritability   

Some studies suggest a link between violent video games and aggressive behavior, although this relationship is still debated. However, gaming habit can contribute to irritability and frustration, especially  when individuals are unable to play or face in-game challenges. This frustration can carry over into real-life situations, affecting relationships and social interactions. 

Emotional Dysregulation  

Individuals with gaming habit often struggle with emotional regulation. They may experience intense emotional reactions to in-game events, which can spill over into their real life. The difficulty in managing these emotions can lead to impulsive behavior, poor coping strategies and increased stress or disappointment when things don’t go as planned.  

Addressing the mental health impact   

Online Gaming dependence can have a profound effect on mental health, contributing to increased anxiety, depression, social isolation, and cognitive impairment. Seeking professional help, establishing healthy gaming habits, and fostering real-life social connections are essential steps in mitigating the mental health impacts of gaming habits. Early intervention is key to preventing further mental health decline and restoring balance to one’s life. 

https://omegarecovery.org/the-impact-of-gaming-addiction-on-mental-health/#:~:text=Studies%20have%20shown%20that%20excessive,and%20issues%20with%20interpersonal%20relationships. 

https://www.familyaddictionspecialist.com/blog/video-games-mental-health-and-addiction-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly 

Kaya, A., Türk, N., Batmaz, H., & Griffiths, M. D. (2023). Online gaming addiction and basic psychological needs among adolescents: The mediating roles of meaning in life and responsibility. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-022-00994-9