So, I've just graduated and now I have time on my hands. I am on day 170ish with no pm, and was wondering if video games are harmful. I've seen many posts about how video games are an addiction, and before I start playing again, I want to make sure that it is safe. Just want opinions.
In my opinion there is nothing wrong with games. Of course gaming can also be addictive, but pretty much any activity or behaviour can lead to addiction. Just don't play all day and you'll be just fine.
In my experience, they are non-beneficial at best. Having a decent amount of self control, they didn't cause relapse, but they left me bored and unsatisfied. There is always something more useful to do than playing video games. It is a tough pill to swallow, I know.
Video games cause a lot of emotional stress for me (sometimes it's so much that I start shaking), and can be a major trigger at times. And I agree with @Rubidium. I think that's a little over-simplifying. Just as porn, gaming brings about a lot of overstimulation, and there are activities that don't, like spending time in nature or playing an instrument (as long as it's not an electric guitar cranked up to 10).
