Back in the day, I played Candy Crush. But I didn't just play it - I became obsessed with it! It got so bad that my hubby had to have a "Come to Jesus" meeting with me.
Nowadays, I like to get home from work, kick up my feet and play a few rounds of Jeopardy and Wheel Of Fortune on my phone...maybe solve a crossword puzzle or two...but I don't feel addicted, like before. So it makes feel good to know that my approach to unwinding after a long day isn't a bad thing.
According to a new study, video games have become an important way people cope with stress. Researchers found that 55 percent of gamers play video games because it helps them to unwind.
Games end up improving mental health because they provide a social connection, allowing gamers to connect with friends. This leads to improvements in mood and social skills.
And because players "lose themselves" in the action, they are able to take their minds off things that might be troubling them, which also helps them reduce stress. (SWNS Digital)
Photo: Screenshot from the phone of Jenni Chase