Millennials are playing video games to cope with life stress, study finds
A new survey found that millennials think video games are making huge positive differences to their lives, from boosting confidence to resolving mental health issues
PLAYING video games is a key way for millennials to cope with stress, according to a new study.
Researchers quizzed 1,000 gamers aged between 18 and 30, and found that more than half played games daily because it "helps them to unwind and relieve stress".
What's more, around 47% of young gamers thought the performing well in a game had a positive impact on their real lives, according to SWNS.
The study was commissioned by the Dave TV channel ahead of the upcoming third season of comedian Dara O Briain's show Go 8 Bit.
Dave's Luke Hales said: "This survey is incredibly revealing in showing the positive mental benefits of getting together for a gaming session."
Dara's show sees celebs go head-to-head on classic and contemporary games, including titles like Tetris, Pong, Temple Run and Star Wars Battlefront.
The series capitalises on the fact that more and more people are seeing video gaming as a social activity.
The new study showed that three out of five gamers played "specifically to join friends or an established 'clan' to play with".
It also found that the average gamer has made three friends through gaming, either by playing together, or thanks to the gaming community and culture.
Many gamers reported huge improvements to many different parts of their lives thanks to gaming.
Around 42% of those surveyed said they felt happiest when performing well in a game, while 27% felt that gaming helped them deal with a mental health issue or concern.
Over a third of respondents said gaming boosted their confidence, while a fifth thought playing games helped hone problem-solving abilities.
MOST READ IN TECH
";For those looking for support, gaming as a hobby can offer a confidence-boosting sense of achievement, which may be lacking in other aspects of their lives," explained Hales.
"It's also a great way to interact with people who have similar interests, socialise and make friends, and it's a shame this side of the pastime is often passed over by the media in favour of a negative headline."
Dara's show returns to Dave on February 12 at 10pm.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at [email protected] or call 0207 782 4368 . We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.