We’re always hearing about how bad it is to spend too long playing online games, particularly for our children. But what we rarely hear about is the positive impact that playing these games can actually have on our mental wellbeing.

Playing games to unwind

For me, playing games on my phone or laptop is one of the things I do to unwind after a busy day. I work long hours and have a family to l0ok after, and I can often feel a little stressed and anxious at the end of the day. I find that getting engrossed in playing a game helps my body and my mind to relax in a way that nothing else does! Even if it’s just 15 minutes when the children go to bed, it really does make a difference to me.

I find it really hard to switch off, and I also suffer from lack of sleep at times because of stress. I have found though that if I play one of my favourite games, I quickly start to feel my heart rate lower and I feel more relaxed and less anxious. I’ve made it part of my daily self-care routine.

Playing games can be educational

As well as the positive impact on our mental health, playing games can also be educational too. Technology is becoming an increasingly important part of everyday life, so it’s important that children get used to using it from an early age. For example, playing games such as this supermarket simulation game from Plays.org is a great way for children to learn about what goes on behind the scenes in a supermarket.

These kinds of real life games can also help children to learn skills in mathematics and problem-solving too – they are all skills that kids need to succeed later in life. Not only that, but this particular game is lots of fun – I found myself quickly getting hooked into making sure all the areas were kept well stocked, keeping the customers happy at the till, and increasing the stock range available.

The social aspect of online gaming

Over the last twelve months or so, we have all spent far more time isolated at home than ever before, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic. For my children, playing games online has been a great way for them to keep in touch with their friends. I can’t imagine how we would have coped without the internet! As adults, we have also teamed up with family to play games online together too – it’s been a great way for all of us to escape reality for a short time and just enjoy that connection we’ve all missed so much.

For me, online games have so many benefits. Of course, I’m not suggesting that anyone should game every hour of the day, but I do think that gaming can be a really positive thing for our overall wellbeing, particularly during difficult times.