Why do gamers have insomnia?

Why Do Gamers Have Insomnia?

Gamers, like many other people, often struggle with insomnia. But what makes gamers particularly susceptible to sleep disorders? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and delve into the consequences of gaming on our sleep patterns.

The Link between Gaming and Insomnia

Research has shown that gamers are more likely to experience insomnia than non-gamers. A study published in the journal Sleep Health found that 61.3% of gamers reported sleeping less than 7 hours per night, compared to 47.6% of non-gamers (1). Another study published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking found that gamers who played video games for more than 4 hours per day were more likely to experience insomnia than those who played for less than 2 hours per day (2).

Why do gamers have insomnia?

So, what’s behind this correlation between gaming and insomnia? Here are some possible explanations:

• Blue Light Exposure: Modern video games often involve screen time, which exposes gamers to blue light. Blue light has been shown to suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycles (3).

• Stimulation and Activation: Video games can be highly stimulating and activating, which can make it difficult to wind down and relax before bed. This can lead to increased levels of cortisol, a hormone that helps us respond to stress, making it harder to fall asleep (4).

• Social Media and Online Interactions: Many gamers engage in social media and online interactions while playing games, which can be stimulating and activate our brains. This can make it harder to disconnect and relax before bed (5).

• Lack of Physical Activity: Gamers often spend extended periods sitting and engaging in sedentary activities, which can lead to decreased physical activity levels. Regular physical activity can help regulate our sleep patterns and improve the quality of our sleep (6).

The Consequences of Gaming on Sleep

So, what are the consequences of gaming on our sleep patterns? Here are some potential risks:

• Sleep Disorders: Insomnia, sleep deprivation, and other sleep disorders can lead to impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances, and decreased quality of life (7).

• Mood and Anxiety: Gaming can also impact our mood and anxiety levels. Excessive gaming can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety, which can disrupt our sleep patterns (8).

• Social and Relationship Problems: Gaming can also affect our social and relationship problems. Excessive gaming can lead to social isolation, decreased social skills, and strained relationships (9).

Prevention and Treatment

So, how can gamers prevent and treat insomnia and other sleep disorders? Here are some strategies:

• Establish a Bedtime Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine to signal to your brain that it’s time to sleep. This can include activities like reading, meditation, or relaxation techniques (10).

• Avoid Screens Before Bed: Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime to reduce blue light exposure and stimulate your brain (11).

• Exercise Regularly: Engage in regular physical activity to improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of insomnia (12).

• Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders, seek professional help from a healthcare provider or a sleep specialist (13).

In conclusion, gamers are more likely to experience insomnia than non-gamers due to factors such as blue light exposure, stimulation and activation, social media and online interactions, and lack of physical activity. It’s essential to establish a bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, exercise regularly, and seek professional help if needed. By taking these steps, gamers can reduce their risk of insomnia and improve the quality of their sleep.

References

1. Sleep Health. (2018). Video game use and sleep quality among adolescents.

2. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking. (2018). The relationship between video game addiction and sleep quality.

3. National Sleep Foundation. (n.d.). Blue Light and Sleep.

4. American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Stress: What is stress?

5. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking. (2018). The impact of social media on sleep quality.

6. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Sleep Disorders.

7. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. (n.d.). Insomnia.

8. International Journal of Mental Health Nursing. (2018). The relationship between video game addiction and anxiety.

9. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology. (2018). The impact of video game addiction on social relationships.

10. National Sleep Foundation. (n.d.). Bedtime Routine.

11. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. (n.d.). Blue Light.

12. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Physical Activity and Sleep.

13. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. (n.d.). Treatment of Insomnia.