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Think Video Games are bad for you?
The Truth might surprise you!
- A study of almost 100,000 people in Japan aged 10 to 69 found playing video games – or even owning a console – can be good for mental health.
- But playing too much each day can harm wellbeing.
FEATURED AUTHOR
NICO
Sharing insights on financial strategies transforming gaming.
Published: August 22, 2025
15min to read
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What happens when you ask 97602 people about gaming and mental health?
Surveys have shown playing video games can have positive effects on stress levels and creativity. But concern remains about the potential negative effects on general wellbeing, aggressive behaviour and social development, especially for
young people.
The World Health Organization lists gaming disorder as a mental health condition, and a severe social withdrawal condition called hikikomori has been described in Japan. The survey showed links between gaming and wellbeing and researchers found a way to show cause and effect. That even owning a console improved wellbeing.
The research was conducted between 2020 and 2022 – during the COVID pandemic. The researchers used measures of psychological distress and life satisfaction.
Winning a Console - A surprising boost to mental health?
The researchers asked 97,602 people in Japan about their gaming use. The survey coincided with supply chain shortages.
These led retailers to use a lottery system for the purchase of two consoles: Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. Of the overall survey group, 8,192 participated in the lottery.
They found those who won the lottery had improved distress scores and better life satisfaction.
The Dark Side of Gaming: When does playtime harm Wellbeing?
The results were not all positive. Over time, the scores indicated drops in wellbeing for those who played more than three hours a day. Scores continued to drop for each additional time increment measured.
Does this survey fully represent reality?
Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to consider the limitations of this study. These were clearly acknowledged by the researchers
Every study has limits, and this one is no different
Firstly, the survey was conducted when the COVID pandemic presented a particularly challenging time for mental health. It also brought changes in social, occupational and lifestyle behaviours.
The study focused mainly on general gaming habits without distinguishing between different types of games, which could have varying impacts on mental health.
Further, participants chose whether to enter the lottery, so it was not a random sample. And the study could not specifically attribute findings to the effects of playing video games versus the effects of winning the lottery.
Balancing Act: The Pros and Cons of GAMING
While video games can offer benefits, it’s essential to recognise drawbacks and strive for a balanced approach
Beyond Entertainment: Can Games Enhance Cognitive Skills?
We know from other surveys video games can be useful stress relievers and aid social connection (albeit online). We also know some games can improve particular cognitive skills such as visuo-spatial navigation and problem solving.
Games and technologies can also specifically target mental health issues, such as social anxiety or phobias, address ADHD symptoms and enhance motivation and performance.
Potential Pitfalls: Are There Long-Term Consequences to Consider?
Concerns remain about possible long-term consequences, particularly in terms of reductions in “real-life” socialisation, participation in physical activity, school performance and other health consequences, including sleep and eating
behaviours.
It’s important to make sure gaming doesn’t interfere with sleeping or eating.
3 Tips for positive
gaming
1. Set time limits
Encourage moderate gaming by setting clear time limits to ensure it doesn’t interfere with sleep, physical activity or other important daily activities. The Australian institute of Family Studies recommends creating a media plan that includes limits on screen time and balances gaming with other activities.
2. Choose games wisely
Opt for games that are age-appropriate and consider their content. Some games can promote problem-solving skills and creativity, but it’s important to be mindful of those that might encourage aggression or competition.
3. Monitor eating and sleeping habits
Pay attention to eating patterns and ensure meals are not skipped in favour of gaming. Encourage regular sleep patterns and avoid gaming close to bedtime to prevent disruptions in sleep.
While the new study provides promising insights into the potential positive effects of video games on mental wellbeing, these findings should be approached with caution due to the limits of the survey.
While the potential benefits are encouraging, it is essential to adopt a balanced approach to gaming and pursue further research to fully understand its long-term impact on mental health.
TO SUMMARISE
- A study of almost 100,000 people in Japan aged 10 to 69 found playing video games – or even owning a console – can be good for mental health.
- But playing too much each day can harm wellbeing.
