Playing popular video games could have a positive impact on mental health, according to new Irish research.
The study was carried out by Lero, Science Foundation Ireland’s Centre for Software.
There are now an estimated 2.7 billion people worldwide who play video games, with an average age of 34.
The Irish researchers found that games can offer “low-cost, easy access, effective and stigma-free support” for some mental health issues, in particular depression and anxiety.
It says games could be particularly helpful where conventional therapies or treatments are not available due to cost or location, or could also be used in addition to traditional treatments.
Lero researcher Dr Mark Campbell says gaming has had many positive influences.
