Understanding the Impact of Gaming on Sleep
It’s no surprise to most people that staying up late playing video games can have an adverse effect on a person’s sleep cycle. What may come as a surprise, however, is the potential for long-term damage that can result from habitual gaming. Understanding the effects of gaming on sleep can help gamers make informed decisions to maintain their health and well-being.
Whether for entertainment or recreation, many people play games at night in an attempt to relax or unwind from their day. While this may seem like a peaceful way to end the day, it can have several negative impacts in the long-term. The bright blue or green light emitted from game screens can interfere with a person’s natural Circadian rhythm, resulting in a lack of quality sleep.
In addition, the content of the games may have a greater impact. Whether from the steady drumbeat of a first person shooter or the suspense of a role playing game, the adrenaline induced from gaming can make it harder to relax and fall into a deep sleep. This can lead to fatigue during the day as well as an inability to concentrate on tasks or even conversation.
The Effects of Long-Term Gaming
Long-term gaming can lead to chronic sleep deprivation that can have a cumulative and lasting effect on an individual’s physical and mental functioning. A lack of number of hours of sleep is bad enough, but compounded with the interference to your Circadian rhythm, the consequences can extend far beyond difficulty getting out of bed.
Middle and high schoolers who engage in frequent gaming are at greater risk of disruptions that can lead to poor academic and social performance. These individuals may also have difficulty performing daily tasks, including chores or even remembering appointments. Fortunately, there are ways to limit the adverse effects.
Knowing Your Limits
It’s important to be aware of the effects of gaming on sleep and to take steps to counter any disruptions. Setting a bedtime and a limit for gaming hours can help to keep you on track. Additionally, if you find that playing with blue light interfering with your ability to sleep, try changing the color of your screen to a warmer yellow or red hue. This can help to reduce eye strain while ensuring that blue light isn’t interrupting your Circadian rhythm.
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to the content of the games you’re playing. Before settling in for a night of gaming, consider the level of excitement or adrenaline that is typically associated with that title. If you find the game to be overstimulating, try something a little calmer and easier to digest. Additionally, take breaks every 30-60 minutes to allow your brain to recover and decompress.
By setting limits and being mindful of their effects, people can still have fun and enjoy games without suffering from the negative consequences of gaming on their sleep.
Things to Consider When Gaming and Sleeping:
- Set a bedtime and an appropriate limit for gaming hours
- Use a warmer screen color to reduce blue light interference
- Pay attention to the content of the games and choose something that is not overly stimulating
- Take breaks every 30-60 minutes to allow the brain to rest
Conclusion
By keeping the potential negative effects of gaming on their sleep in mind, individuals can enjoy gaming without putting their health and well-being in danger. By taking the necessary steps to limit game time and making simple adjustments, gamers can ensure that their gaming habits don’t have unwanted consequences on their Circadian rhythm.