Gaming is an activity that consists of playing video games and interacting with other players online. It is a popular hobby and can be played on desktop computers, laptops, tablets and mobile phones. It can be an exciting way to relax and de-stress but it can also become an addiction if it becomes a regular part of your life.

Gaming can be a social activity and it is a great way to meet new people and make friends! There are many different games to choose from that help you make friends, such as online multiplayer video games or games with voice chat. This can be a great way to meet people from all over the world and can even lead to a job.

Playing games can improve your brain functions and enhance your attention span, according to research. Specifically, gamers have better brain activations in areas linked with attention and working memory. This means that they are better at making quick decisions, especially if they are using a fast-paced game such as shooters or action-adventure games.

This is especially useful for those who have ADHD or other attention disorders because it can improve their cognitive skills and functioning. It can also be useful for people who have a hard time with problem-solving or learning, because they may find that video games encourage them to use their imaginations and think on their feet when playing games.

Excessive gaming can have negative effects on your mental health, including anxiety and depression. You might start to feel out of control, unable to deal with real life and unable to sleep or eat properly. You might find that you use drugs to get you through longer and more intense gaming sessions. If these symptoms sound familiar, or you are experiencing them for the first time, it is important to seek support from a therapist.

Psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder are more likely to affect gaming habits. If you are thinking of cutting down on your gaming, it is vital to talk to someone about how it is affecting your mental health and what to do next. You could speak to a psychologist or ask for an online INTENTA training session which can help you learn how to manage your gaming and keep it healthy.

The amount of gaming is affected by a combination of personal, interpersonal and environmental influences. These influences push or pull on the amount of gaming (see Fig. 1).

Personal factors such as self-esteem, feelings of responsibility and desire to engage in other activities are also influenced by gaming. Participants who reported reducing their gaming often cited family members, friends, or other people who encouraged them to reduce their gaming.

Interpersonal factors such as co-habitants and social networks influence the amount of gaming. Some participants recalled parents or other family members who encouraged them to play games, purchase games for them, or reward them with games for doing well in school.