A wide variety of video games have been adapted for pro-social purposes such as health education, disease management in youth with specific conditions, and promotion of physical activity among others. While organised eSports are increasingly popular, there is a growing concern that the gamer’s lifestyle may impact their general health and social relations. Find out UFABET เข้าสู่ระบบ อย่างปลอดภัย
Despite the stereotype of a solitary, socially isolated gaming addict, multi-player games are often played in online communities. Studies suggest that gamers are able to build close relationships in these virtual worlds, which can help them deal with real life problems and develop coping mechanisms. Furthermore, a study by Sothern and Perry showed that adolescents’ participation in eSports was associated with improved mental health.
Unfortunately, the gaming lifestyle also has serious negative effects on physical health. Many people spend hours a day in front of a screen, which can lead to poor posture and stiff neck and back muscles. This can aggravate existing medical problems, such as musculoskeletal disorders or obesity. It can also have an impact on sleep hygiene, leading to a lack of quality sleep and fatigue. It can also result in dehydration and a poor diet, with the latter leading to weight gain, muscle atrophy and heart problems.
In order to promote healthy gaming habits, public health stakeholders should continue to encourage people to adopt an active lifestyle and participate in organised sporting activities. It is also important that researchers continue to explore the relationship between gaming and health indicators, using experimental research designs and controlled settings.
