Skill & Wellness Impact of Gaming

Games offer players unique challenges and immediate feedback, helping them to improve their skills iteratively and gain a sense of accomplishment. This approach to tackling difficulty can aid players in adopting a healthy outlook towards real-world problems. Additionally, many video games are intrinsically social, and research shows that they can improve self-esteem, cognitive and social skills, and reduce depression, stress, and loneliness, regardless of age or intensity of play.

Video games can also be used as adjuncts or alternative treatments for diagnosable conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, adolescent depression, and anxiety. According to a study conducted by the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, video games have been found to be an effective tool for reducing anxiety levels among adolescents.

One example of a video game addressing mental health stigma is "Asura," a game developed by Hyderabad-based studio Ogre Head. The game, inspired by Hindu mythology, explores themes of mental health and the struggle against inner demons. The studio collaborated with mental health professionals to ensure an authentic representation of mental illness in the game.

To fully realize the potential benefits of video games on mental health, it is important for all members of the ecosystem (athletes / players, tournament organizers, developers, player bodies and health bodies, and most importantly parents and the public at large to work together. The Indian government has recognized the importance of the video game industry and is taking steps to support its growth. In 2020, the government announced a new policy to support the development of the gaming industry in India, including incentives for game developers and a fund for gaming startups.

In conclusion, video games hold promise as a means of creating skill and also addressing mental health issues. While the industry continues to grow, it is important to address the risks of addiction and excessive gaming to ensure that video games can be used effectively as a tool for promoting skilling and wellness in a regulated environment.