Recent studies suggest that video games can be therapeutic for individuals grappling with mental health issues. Several young residents in the UAE have expressed comfort in using video games to manage their emotions, while some would consider traditional therapy if it incorporated elements of gaming.
However, the debate continues: Can video games genuinely serve as an emotional outlet? One young gamer believes so, stating that video games have been more effective in helping him through tough times than any previous therapy. “Even if elements of gaming were incorporated into therapy, I wouldn’t do it again. I find the aspect of therapy too scary. The concept of allowing a stranger to pull my trauma out of me makes me extremely uncomfortable. Whereas with gaming, you have full control with no external interference,” said James Lee, a 20-year-old Dubai resident.
“Gaming was useful when I needed a break from reality,” he added, sharing that he relied on video games as his primary escape during difficult periods of his life.
Dante Chapman, a 15-year-old who discovered his passion for gaming at the age of two, said: “When you’re playing, you can just unleash your anger on the games and have fun without being judged.”
Bushra Khan, an emotional wellbeing and transformational coach at Wellth in Dubai, noted that while some dismiss gaming as mere escapism or “brain rot,” there is growing evidence of its therapeutic benefits. “Video games have shown potential in helping individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Studies have indicated improvements in memory, executive function, and day-to-day skills through cognitive training games,” she said.
However, Bushra cautioned that while video games can offer benefits like stress relief and cognitive stimulation, users must be mindful of several factors. “Excessive gaming can interfere with daily responsibilities, lead to physical and mental health issues, disrupt sleep, and diminish interest in other activities,” she explained. She advised setting clear boundaries, taking regular breaks, monitoring game content, engaging in social gaming, and diversifying coping mechanisms to ensure gaming remains beneficial without becoming excessive.
Conor Minton, 27, agreed with Bushra’s suggestions. “The quick release of dopamine and the highs you get are made all the more empty when you have to come crashing back to reality. At the end of the game, your life still has the same issues, and avoiding them will not help you attain closure,” he said.
Another Dubai resident, Amaan Rafiq, 27, shared his experience with gaming. “I feel quite competitive, so when my team isn’t winning, I get very agitated. I only play with personal friends to avoid or discuss any verbal disrespect,” he said, adding that he limits his gaming time to prevent it from affecting his mental health.
Carolyn Yaffe, a counsellor and cognitive behavioural therapist at Medcare Camali Clinic in Dubai, emphasized that while some video games can benefit mental health, they should not replace professional therapy. “Some video games are designed specifically for mental health, incorporating elements of talking therapies to help individuals manage their thoughts and emotions,” she said.
Rafiq mentioned that he is open to limiting his gaming time based on stress levels. “I’m good at being strict with myself, knowing when to withdraw and divert my free time to activities like walking or going to the gym,” he said.
Conor, however, maintains his stance: “If therapy included elements found in video games, I’d be more open to it if I ever felt the need,” he concluded.