Celebrity stories, interviews with esports professional and streamers, talks from gaming industry experts.

Watch our latest mental health content

Escapism and Football Manager 2023

WE'RE ALSO ON YOUTUBE

In this video we examine the academic literature and ask the question "Are Gaming and Depression Linked?"

ARE GAMING AND DEPRESSION LINKED?

Gamers vs. Depression's Programme Lead, Lee Cumbers, discusses how he became addicted to gaming and the steps he took to get better.

HOW I BECAME ADDICTED TO GAMING

MoJoOnPC discusses how he avoids burnout whilst continuing as a YouTuber with nearly 200 million views. 

AVOIDING YOUTUBER BURNOUT

We spoke to MoJoOnPC about his journey from unknown to becoming a YouTuber with close to one million subscribers.

MoJoOnPC on Becoming a YouTuber

<center><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LJjGT3by-xc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>



We spoke to League of Legends Shout-Caster extraordinaire Dezachu about gaming and mental health.



League of Legends shout caster Dezachu gives his thoughts on mental health in the LoL community and what it's like being a shout caster.

Shoutcasting in League of Legends with Dezachu

Dezachu on Shout-casting in League of Legends

Social support and gaming is extremely important for young people and the relationships they develop. Watch our video to find out how.

Gaming and Social Support

FEATURED INTERVIEWS FROM WITHIN THE GAMING COMMUNITY

INTERVIEWS

<center><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BsQqlrYFOLk" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>

Welcome to part 2, in this video we’ll be taking a look at how gaming can positively influence your mental health and social connection.

In Part 1, we laid out the focus of this three part series and began with the negative aspects of gaming; looking at what the available literature tells us and whether the claims are supported by evidence. The link to Part 1 is in the description.

Part 2

Mental health problems have increased in prevalence and severity over the last few years. It is estimated that 1 in 6 people would have experienced a common mental health problem in the past week (mentalhealth.org). Mental health issues are also one of the main causes of the overall disease burden worldwide, meaning it’s one of the biggest impactors of health and wellbeing on the global population.

Recent research has shown that gaming can have a positive effect on wellbeing. A study conducted at the University of Oxford found playing video games is positively correlated with overall wellbeing. (https://psyarxiv.com/qrjza). Policy makers around the world have been contemplating the regulation of video game playing time and its overall influence on wellbeing, even though there isn’t enough adequate data to justify these notions, and the findings revealed so far support the idea that gaming may actually facilitate positive mental health.

So here’s a few benefits that video gaming can have on your mental health:

Video games lead to healthy brain stimulation- Most games promote the stimulation and use of many different areas in the brain, such as problem solving, decision-making, pattern recognition, and many more. It also provokes multiple dimensions of critical thinking and improves analytical skills. In part 3 of the series, we’ll be going into much more detail regarding these aspects.

Playing games can help relieve stress- Immersing yourself into an RPG, working through an action-adventure franchise, or battling against others online are excellent ways to relinquish stress. Gaming is an interactive and diverse tool for unwinding, and promotes ‘positive escapism’- taking a break from reality in order to decompress from a rough day or week, and providing an opportunity to gain some perspective on the daily stresses of life.

Video games can help you develop coping strategies- When faced with a difficult life situation, people tend to use coping mechanisms in order to deal with the obstacles they’re facing. While some of these mechanisms can be negative, such as abusing drugs and alcohol, gaming incites opportunities to learn how to effectively cope with real-life difficulties by overcoming virtual adversities, invoking perseverance and promoting a sense of achievement.

Intertwining with mental health is ‘social connection’, which is defined as: “The relationships you have with the people around you”. They may be close by such as family, friends and co-workers, or far away, meaning you only connect with them over the phone or online.

Having social connections with others in any form are important for a variety of reasons. One of the main outcomes is the development of ‘Resilience’ which is the ability to bounce back after stressful situations, this is strengthened when you give and receive social support.
Support from your social connections can also contribute to feelings of purpose and meaning in life. Being there for others, and having people you can turn to when in need are pivotal for improving and maintaining wellbeing.

In light of recent years, social connection has become more important than ever before. Video games are arguably the best platform for socialising and maintaining relationships. Communication is a constant when gaming online, and creates an almost perfect environment for different capacities of conversations to be shared among friends or new people.

Gaming and livestreaming are effective ways to combat loneliness. Loneliness is the perceived feeling of being alone or isolated, regardless of what social connections you have. This modern way of socialising with people who share similar interests and affinities can help overcome the feeling of being alone, while becoming part of a genuinely supportive community.

There are many different ways to create social connections through gaming, this could be something like joining an esports team or league, playing MMORPGS and other games that involve teamwork and large-scale interaction, or playing online games in general where matchmaking connects you to thousands of people across the World. The possibilities of meeting new people, and staying connected with old friends are endless, and video games make it effortless and enjoyable.

In summary, playing games in moderation can be good for your health and gaming is an effective way to maintain positive mental wellbeing. The empirical research being conducted supports the idea that video games are actually a useful tool for mental health, going against the baseless statements of policy makers and government officials. Forming and maintaining social connection with others has never been easier through gaming, meeting like minded people at the touch of a key or button promotes the generation of new relationships through fun and enjoyable experiences that bring people together from across the World.

In part 3, we’re going to discuss how video games can help your personal, academic and career development, as well as nurturing other mental skills that transfer into real-life situations. Make sure you hit that subscribe button to stay notified, and check out our website for more information.


There is a lot of discussion about the negatives of gaming, but it's not all bad. Watch this video to hear about some ways gaming can be good for your health.

Can Gaming can be Good for Your Health?

<center><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/suQNovHvM3M" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>


Since the birth of video games, there has been an ongoing argument in the mainstream of whether gaming is positive or negative in regard to overall well being.


Typically, the media falls on the side of detriment. Proposing that video games can lead to laziness, aggressiveness and even violent behaviour. However, due to the unstoppable growth of gaming and its firm implementation into modern society, whether many media outlets like it or not, video games are here to stay.


Like with most things, an unjust negative outlook on a particular topic is usually formed due to misinformation and lack of understanding. The somewhat one-sided viewpoint of video games has left a skewed perspective in the eyes of parents, government and health officials. We have attempted to take a critical look at the evidence with a view of providing a more nuanced and balanced perspective of the pros and cons of gaming. In this three part series, we will present the outcome of this investigation.


Before we dive into the numerous benefits of picking up a gamepad, or using your keyboard and mouse for more than just work and internet surfing, let’s take a look at the perceived negative aspects of gaming. While some are truthful, there are others that are not backed up by empirical research or data. For example: The notion that violent video games cause violent behaviour is completely anecdotal. Academic research shows no correlation of violent games inciting real life violent behaviour, in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Video games of any genre have been shown to reduce stress, facilitate relaxation, and regulate emotions.


After decades of this completely farcical narrative being pushed in the mainstream media, one game developer company decided to hit back. Rockstar games, the creators of the Grand Theft Auto series, were scrutinised by no other than Hillary Clinton, due to the violent and profane nature of the game franchise. Clinton suggested that new regulations should be introduced to combat games like this. Rockstar subtly responded when they released GTA 4 in 2008, the fictional setting for the game is ‘Liberty City’, which shares strong similarities with New York city, including their very own Statue of Liberty, referred to as the Statue of Happiness. Upon closer inspection, the face of ‘Lady happiness’ shares a striking resemblance to Hillary Clinton. Although Rockstar Games have never confirmed the reference or intent behind this easter egg, it was revealed that the file name for the statue is “stat_hilberty01.wdr”. So you can decide for yourselves.


Another misconception is that video games are a waste of time, and provide no progression in regard to personal and societal development. Once again this couldn’t be further from the truth. Professional gamers are paid annual salaries, receive bonuses, sponsorship money and donations from fans. Professional streamers are essentially entertainers, they can vary from elite gameplay, comedy, interactive and supportive content. Their revenue streams are very similar, and tend to lead into other career pathways such as esports coaching, presenting and hosting podcasts. In 2021, a streamer by the name of CriticalRole made 9 million dollars just from his live stream alone. Later in the series, we’ll be looking at the plethora of benefits gaming has to offer when it comes to personal and career development. However, this isn’t going to be a one-sided affair, there are some negative elements of gaming that are supported with evidence. The sedentary nature of video gaming is usually the first aspect mentioned. And Yes. Gaming is for the most part an inactive hobby (with the exception of some VR games). However, finding a balance between adequate physical activity and sedentary recreational time is essential when it comes to any hobby.


Additionally, using video games as a form of negative escapism can also be detrimental to your health. Gaming can become a reliance, and even addictive. Internet Gaming disorder (or IDG) involves an unhealthy fixation on playing games, subsequently causing other aspects of life to fall by the way-side. Behaviours include a preoccupation with gaming, withdrawal symptoms when gaming is taken away or not possible, and continuing to game despite problems.


Like everything, though, too much of something good can lead to undesirable outcomes. Prioritising video games over essential activities such as sleep, nutrition, and physical activity can be damaging to your physical and mental wellbeing. What seems to be often overlooked is the fact that video games are merely a tool just like anything else. It’s no different to exercising, watching films and TV shows, or even reading books. Doing any activity to excess can be harmful to your health, even the ones with positive connotations. For example, if you exercise excessively, you can cause your physical and mental health to decline over time. If you spent all your time reading, and sacrificed sleep, eating and physical activity as a result, that would also be bad for your wellbeing.


In summary, video games have been given a bad wrap over the years, but the powers that be are not telling both sides of the story. Nevertheless, this stigmatisation hasn’t managed to stop the gaming scene from becoming one of the biggest conglomerates in the world. As long as a healthy balance is achieved and maintained, video games can provide a plethora of mental, developmental, and social benefits.


In Part 2, we’ll be taking a look at the ways gaming can facilitate positive mental wellbeing and social connection, hit the subscribe button to be notified, and check out our website for more information on gaming and health.



In this video we discuss the negatives of gaming. It's not all doom and gloom though, this is a three part series so make sure to check the positives out too. 

The Dark Side of Gaming

<center><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0J7_UUUUaGw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>

Welcome to part 3, in this third and final video, we’ll be looking at the numerous interpersonal and mental skills that can be developed and transferred from the virtual field of play, into everyday life.

In Part 1 we outlined the focus of this series and examined whether the evidence around the negative aspects of gaming often discussed within the media hold up to scientific scrutiny. In Part 2, we then examined the literature around the positive aspects of gaming and once again, examined the available evidence. In this video, we delve into the transferable skills that can be developed while gaming and the types of roles and activities these can support offline.

Whether it’s school, further education, or a career pathway; there are many skills that are essential and desired by oneself, and by an employer or educator. Buzzwords like ‘communication’, ‘teamwork’ and ‘analytical skills’ are conveyed through job advertisements and academic curriculums.

Video gaming once again provides the perfect platform for nurturing and honing the attributes that are heavily sought after. So here are just a “few” benefits from playing games that seamlessly transfer into the current World.

Development of interpersonal skills- Interpersonal skills are described as: The skills we use every day when we communicate and interact with other people, both individually and in groups.

Most online multiplayer games require a high level of communication, cohesion and teamwork. Being able to gel and work collaboratively with others is absolutely vital in any environment.

Mental skills- Also known as psychological skills, these are essentially “tools for the mind”. Which include skills such as positive self-talk, enhancing confidence, goal setting, stress control and achieving the most productive mindset.

Video games have been shown to boost self-esteem and confidence, and the dynamics of most games facilitate goal setting, efficiency, relaxation, patience, and many other virtues that are constantly utilised in academic and work environments.

Gaming harnesses and develops your mental skillset, improving concentration, emotional regulation and thought control; while also providing a way to relax and positively escape.

Development of cognitive skills- Which are the core skills your brain uses to think, read, learn, remember, reason and pay attention. These skills work cohesively to take in and identify information, process the relevant points, and move them into your bank of knowledge. Think of your cognitive ability like a muscle, the more you condition and utilise these skills, the more efficient they become.

Playing video games is like a workout for your cognitive skills, because a plethora of cognitive functions are taking place constantly, the multi-dimensional aspects of gaming provokes a multi-functional response from the user, which enhances many desirable cognitive attributes that are pivotal in real-life.

Here are just some of the the numerous cognitive skills developed from playing in the virtual World:

*   Problem solving and logic- puzzles and overcoming adversities are part and parcel of nearly every video game.
*   Planning and resource management- Forward planning and knowing what items or objects you have at your disposal is a frequent occurrence in most games.
*   Multi-tasking and tracking shifting variables- Players and game environments are constantly changing, handling and tracking multiple stimuli is a necessity when playing.
*   Quick thinking, fast analysis and decision-making- a fraction of a second, the mishandling of information, or one bad decision can be the difference between winning and losing, so you better think fast!
*   Strategy and anticipation- strategising and predicting the behaviour of opponents is half the battle, especially when playing online.
*   Situational awareness- Games provide an exposure to a variety of unique situations, over time you learn what responses are best for certain scenarios.
*   Reading and maths skills- Reading, language and mathematics are fundamental in most games, especially mental arithmetic (woman equation meme).
*   Perseverance- Probably the most prevalent skill required for all games, not giving up on a level, or trying to reach a higher rank is commonplace in the gaming world.
*   Enhanced memory-  ‘All is mind’ when it comes to games, filtering and remembering information is pivotal, and something you do all the time in everyday life.
*   Improved concentration- Honing your game skills improves your attentional focus.
*   Mental mapping- A combination of memory and awareness, being able to mentally map your position and the environment itself leads to an improved performance outcome, while you won’t be expected to remember every peek angle of your office building (CS Office game), the skills required will easily transfer into many real-world situations.
*   Pattern recognition- Another facet of memory and awareness, this can be anything from puzzle and problem solving, to recognising behaviours of your opponents.

And finally: Management skills- Objectively there are many simulation games where you take on the role of a manager, whether it’s a sports team, a theme park, or a bespoke diner, you’re in charge. From an online, competitive perspective, this could mean managing or captaining an esports team while playing in a league or tournament, or even more casual like taking on the role of shot-caller in ranked games (Rush B).

To conclude, video games can be a positive way to cope with the stressors of life, be used to maintain social relationships with friends, provide opportunities to form new connections with others, and develop mental and interpersonal skills that can be transferred into real world situations. As long as your game time doesn’t start to outweigh other essential acts and responsibilities, gaming is arguably one of the best hobbies you can implement into your daily life. And I’m sure the ever growing population of 3.24 billion gamers worldwide would agree with me.


Gaming gets a lot of negative press but there are a host of benefits too. This article introduces a few of the key ones and some you may not have thought of.

The Positives of Gaming

IN THIS SERIES WE EXAMINE THE PROS AND CONS OF GAMING

IS GAMING GOOD?

Watch our mini-documentary on Moist Esports epic Rocket League win at the 2022 Spring Major. 

Moist Esports: The Rising Waters (Mini-documentary)

The Last of Us: Depression in Dystopia Course

The Last of Us series has been a worldwide phenomenon. It's also a great story to discuss and explore the topics of grief, loss, and depression. Our course does this and more.

THE LAST OF US: DEPRESSION IN DYSTOPIA

There have been numerous high profile suicides in the gaming community recently. Watch our video to learn about some of the factors that are related to suicide. 

SUICIDE AND THE GAMING COMMUNITY

OUR LONGER FORM VIDEOS TAKING AN INDEPTH LOOK AT THE PSYCHOLOGY OF GAMES, GAMERS, AND TEAMS.

LONG FORM VIDEOS

Watch our latest videos

Psychological First Aid for Online Gamers. Our goal is for every gamer to feel supported. 

Gamers vs. Depression -- Psychological First Aid For Gamers

NEED HELP? WORRIED ABOUT A MATE? STRUGGLING TO KNOW WHAT TO DO?

Get Support

GET SUPPORT

media

MEDIA

OUR VALUES, TEAM, PRIVACY POLICY AND MORE

about

ABOUT

THANKS FOR YOUT INTEREST IN DONATING TO GAMERS VS. DEPRESSION. CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE.

NEED HELP? WORRIED ABOUT A MATE? STRUGGLING TO KNOW WHAT TO DO?

OUR VIDEOS, PODCAST, ARTICLES AND MORE.

OUR VALUES, TEAM, PRIVACY POLICY AND MORE

THANKS FOR YOUT INTEREST IN DONATING TO GAMERS VS. DEPRESSION. CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE.

NEED HELP? WORRIED ABOUT A MATE? STRUGGLING TO KNOW WHAT TO DO?

OUR VIDEOS, PODCAST, ARTICLES AND MORE.

OUR VALUES, TEAM, PRIVACY POLICY AND MORE

THANKS FOR YOUT INTEREST IN DONATING TO GAMERS VS. DEPRESSION. CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE.

WE'RE ALSO ON YOUTUBE

INTERVIEWS

ARE GAMING AND DEPRESSION LINKED?

HOW I BECAME ADDICTED TO GAMING

AVOIDING YOUTUBER BURNOUT

MoJoOnPC on Becoming a YouTuber

Dezachu on Shout-casting in League of Legends

Gaming and Social Support

IS GAMING GOOD?

Can Gaming can be Good for Your Health?

The Dark Side of Gaming

The Positives of Gaming

LONG FORM VIDEOS

Moist Esports: The Rising Waters (Mini-documentary)

THE LAST OF US: DEPRESSION IN DYSTOPIA

SUICIDE AND THE GAMING COMMUNITY