During the coldest winter months, it can be incredibly difficult to stay motivated to study and continue achieving the results many students need to succeed later in life. When the sun sets early and many are attempting to stay cozy and warm indoors, this increase in isolation can bring about feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.
Fortunately, students can take steps to avoid feeling the worst effects of this specific kind of sadness that’s known for occurring between fall and spring. The activity of playing video games can be a welcome distraction from the cold and provide students with ways to stay motivated and happy while tackling their other academic responsibilities.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD for short, is a somewhat common affliction that is understood to be caused by a general lack of sunlight and Vitamin D. This relatively unique disorder that affects mood and motivation can also bring about feelings of fatigue, sadness and a prevailing disinterest in activities that usually promote joy.
#VitaminD is crucial for maintaining strong #mentalhealth, which is why many doctors recommend light therapy to those who suffer from #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder. As we move into winter and less daylight, learn more about how sunlight impacts mental health: https://t.co/bT7Yx5Bn7D pic.twitter.com/51KSibJOj0
– MelbourneRegMC (@MelbourneRegMC) December 7, 2023
When the sun sets early during the cold winter months between November and February, this phenomenon can disrupt a body’s natural rhythms and greatly influence how much serotonin a body produces. Because serotonin is linked to feelings of happiness and well-being, students who struggle with SAD may find it difficult to perform academically and concentrate on tasks for extended periods of time.
How Gaming Can Improve Mood and Motivation
For some people, a change in season can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Here are some things you can try at home to help improve your symptoms.
Other treatments are available for SAD ➡️ https://t.co/WiBqXifJOd pic.twitter.com/JELnJD6Dgw
– NHS (@NHSuk) December 5, 2023
Experienced gamers already know that the act of engaging with a good game can release happy endorphins and improve a person’s mood. Depending on the type of game, many popular titles like Stardew Valley can provide students with hours of entertainment by giving them a comforting and entertaining virtual space to escape to.
Video gaming comes with additional benefits too. Research has linked that playing video games leades to increased ability to stay motivated, think critically, concentrate for longer and cope with real-life challenges better. Besides these benefits, games played with friends can boost self-esteem by helping students feel less lonely and more connected to others.
Addressing Feelings of Sadness through Video Games
There are many ways to alleviate the feelings of sadness and desolation caused by SAD, the easiest among them involves finding fun distractions to occupy time during winter. Finding and playing fun video games using a personal desktop, console or mobile phone can give students opportunities to escape from the cold reality of the outside world for a while.
All kinds of games within every already established genre can be powerful tools to help individuals address feelings linked to SAD. Even thrilling casino games from top reviewed online casinos can provide engaging narratives to allow students to immerse themselves in a virtual environment. As long as individuals pay attention to their gaming habits, they can enjoy all the benefits of games like slots or poker without worry.
Many fun and engaging video games were released this year if students aren’t sure where to start or what to play. Otherwise, it might be worthwhile to consider choosing a beloved game a person already knows they’ll enjoy or browse the endless streams of free options available online or via app stores.
The Impact of Games and Other Hobbies on Emotional Well-being
Naturally, video games are just one way students can combat Seasonal Affective Disorder. Many other activities can also impact emotional well-being for students in positive ways. As long as the activity is entertaining and able to distract a person from an inability to go outside due to the cold, it can help.
It’s important to point out that moderation is important when discussing distractions like video games. Spending too much time escaping from the world may cause students to neglect their studies or other responsibilities. If students are mindful about how much they play and don’t end up using gaming as a crutch to avoid larger issues relating to mood, video games can be immensely helpful.
