5 answers
kimberly
Student
Kings Mountain, North Carolina
1
Question
Updated
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how can music & video games impact one's mental health?
as a 16 year old highschool student, music & video games is a big part of my life. adults always say it’s a distraction or not a big deal/thing but it reality, it really means a lot & i just wish my mom understood.
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5 answers
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
350
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
One thing to consider is that we choose things that help us de-stress and help us cope with life, that actually do help us. And lots of people these days are terribly stressed (and biologically speaking, stress is worse biologically for females than it is for males), and traditionally the truly most helpful things that we need, that would help us feel emotionally safe, healthy, and happy, would be if we got enough eye contact, loving physical contact (like hugs and fist bumps and a hand on our shoulder), and focused attention, from people who love us and are important to us. We all need those three things whether we're a toddler or a teenager or a great-grandparent. But unfortunately, people aren't good at giving each other those three things many times, and many people don't know that those are the things we need; and so we don't get enough of them to keep us happier and healthier, and instead then, we turn to lots of other things that seem like they will help us out instead--drugs, shopping, food, technology, etc.-armed
So then it's also interesting that people usually think the only problem is with people like you who are actually coping so much by spending time with technology, because the technology is built to give us dopamine and other "good" hormones in our bodies that we need, but just as much or even more of the time, a big problem with technology is that, for instance, parents who spend all their time in a day looking at a phone or computer or TV are actually being distracted themselves from giving their kids and teens that eye contact, touch, and focused attention that they need; so both sides are suffering, but it's understandable as well.
The best thing to do would be if you, being a forewarned and now fore-armed expert on what we need psychologically, could, before you spend time with your electronics, go find a way to get a boost of those three things in your day--go find a teacher or pet or kid or parent to look you in the eye for a short conversation, and go let a trusted person know that you need them to listen while you tell them something about your life today; and go find one or more people to give a hug to, so that you would also be getting a hug. And then you can go spend time with your electronics with a clearer conscience since you know you did the other things too, first :) :) And over time, maybe the people you meet and interact with during those moments would look forward to them and maybe start to initiate the interactions themselves, which would eventually wind up making you all better off and happier.
So then it's also interesting that people usually think the only problem is with people like you who are actually coping so much by spending time with technology, because the technology is built to give us dopamine and other "good" hormones in our bodies that we need, but just as much or even more of the time, a big problem with technology is that, for instance, parents who spend all their time in a day looking at a phone or computer or TV are actually being distracted themselves from giving their kids and teens that eye contact, touch, and focused attention that they need; so both sides are suffering, but it's understandable as well.
The best thing to do would be if you, being a forewarned and now fore-armed expert on what we need psychologically, could, before you spend time with your electronics, go find a way to get a boost of those three things in your day--go find a teacher or pet or kid or parent to look you in the eye for a short conversation, and go let a trusted person know that you need them to listen while you tell them something about your life today; and go find one or more people to give a hug to, so that you would also be getting a hug. And then you can go spend time with your electronics with a clearer conscience since you know you did the other things too, first :) :) And over time, maybe the people you meet and interact with during those moments would look forward to them and maybe start to initiate the interactions themselves, which would eventually wind up making you all better off and happier.
Sergio A. Aguirre, Jr.
Integrative Nutrition Coach
7
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Sergio A.’s Answer
Hi Kimberly, that is a great question. As a man who's listened to my fair share of music and played plenty of video games, the short answer would be these two topics affect everyone in a unique way. It's just like trying to become healthy. There is no one way or road to better individualized health. Everyone is unique and everyone’s journey to well-being is different.
I believe it's all in the person's perspective and life experiences. Some people see the glass half empty while others see it half full. You will hear lots of “opinions” from media outlets mostly negative, and that’s all they are – opinions.
Music in my opinion is a fantastic way to learn about other people's thoughts, feelings, about love, about loss, they could be inspirational and motivating, they can be happy and said. The important thing for me is understanding what the singer is trying to convey through their music. But at the same time how that same song can affect you and how you can uniquely interpret it for yourself. The same song may have two different meanings for two completely different people. It's how they interpreted, it's their mindset ultimately. Music teaches you a lot about yourself.
As for video games I saw it is a way of connecting friends building relationships. It also helped me learn how to create and build relationships as a young adult which help me use those skills when I began working, when I began dating, making new friends, acquaintances, business partners, etc. I will say now that I have a son it's helping him with his hand and eye coordination for sure which helps with brain development. There are many out there that see video games in a negative light, I see more of a 80% positive 20% not-so-positive, when it comes down to discussing subjects like these. I'm more of an optimist - glass is ALWAYS half full.
I will tell you this, music and video games have made more of a positive impact in my life and even in those in my circle that I know, versus a negative effect on their mental health. You will soon learn as you grow to pick out all the good advice and leave out the not so good advice. Reason being, people will talk whether you do good or bad. What's important is how you interpret and your pov and how you perceive everything. So I say go live life, try new things, do what you love and be around people that will bring joy and inspire you to be the best person you can be. Good luck to you Kimberly and thank you for the great question.
I believe it's all in the person's perspective and life experiences. Some people see the glass half empty while others see it half full. You will hear lots of “opinions” from media outlets mostly negative, and that’s all they are – opinions.
Music in my opinion is a fantastic way to learn about other people's thoughts, feelings, about love, about loss, they could be inspirational and motivating, they can be happy and said. The important thing for me is understanding what the singer is trying to convey through their music. But at the same time how that same song can affect you and how you can uniquely interpret it for yourself. The same song may have two different meanings for two completely different people. It's how they interpreted, it's their mindset ultimately. Music teaches you a lot about yourself.
As for video games I saw it is a way of connecting friends building relationships. It also helped me learn how to create and build relationships as a young adult which help me use those skills when I began working, when I began dating, making new friends, acquaintances, business partners, etc. I will say now that I have a son it's helping him with his hand and eye coordination for sure which helps with brain development. There are many out there that see video games in a negative light, I see more of a 80% positive 20% not-so-positive, when it comes down to discussing subjects like these. I'm more of an optimist - glass is ALWAYS half full.
I will tell you this, music and video games have made more of a positive impact in my life and even in those in my circle that I know, versus a negative effect on their mental health. You will soon learn as you grow to pick out all the good advice and leave out the not so good advice. Reason being, people will talk whether you do good or bad. What's important is how you interpret and your pov and how you perceive everything. So I say go live life, try new things, do what you love and be around people that will bring joy and inspire you to be the best person you can be. Good luck to you Kimberly and thank you for the great question.
James Hanzel
Corrections and Security
236
Answers
Cape Coral, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
This question is indeed challenging, and I'll tackle each component individually. In my life journey, I've found that music and video games have influenced my mental wellbeing in contrasting ways.
During my younger years, video games were my go-to pastime. Initially, I reveled in the thrill of immersing myself in fantastical realms, especially if the game was inspired by a book or film I was familiar with. As I ventured into my teenage years, video games became an outlet for my competitive streak, as I reveled in online sports gaming. However, as time progressed, the drawbacks of video gaming began to overshadow its benefits. The isolation and loss of time awareness that came with prolonged gaming sessions were detrimental. Consequently, I chose to abandon video games and adopt habits that fostered personal development. I began to dedicate more time to learning a foreign language and self-teaching piano. I'm not discouraging video gaming; I'm merely sharing my personal experience.
Music, on the other hand, has been my constant companion through life's ups and downs. During my basic training in the Marine Corps, I realized that of all the home comforts I yearned for, music was what I missed the most. Music has the power to uplift my spirits and serves as a wonderful medium for self-expression and connecting with others. As I've journeyed across the globe, music from my homeland has often served as a bridge to connect with people from diverse cultures. This has also opened my heart to appreciate the music of their cultures as well.
During my younger years, video games were my go-to pastime. Initially, I reveled in the thrill of immersing myself in fantastical realms, especially if the game was inspired by a book or film I was familiar with. As I ventured into my teenage years, video games became an outlet for my competitive streak, as I reveled in online sports gaming. However, as time progressed, the drawbacks of video gaming began to overshadow its benefits. The isolation and loss of time awareness that came with prolonged gaming sessions were detrimental. Consequently, I chose to abandon video games and adopt habits that fostered personal development. I began to dedicate more time to learning a foreign language and self-teaching piano. I'm not discouraging video gaming; I'm merely sharing my personal experience.
Music, on the other hand, has been my constant companion through life's ups and downs. During my basic training in the Marine Corps, I realized that of all the home comforts I yearned for, music was what I missed the most. Music has the power to uplift my spirits and serves as a wonderful medium for self-expression and connecting with others. As I've journeyed across the globe, music from my homeland has often served as a bridge to connect with people from diverse cultures. This has also opened my heart to appreciate the music of their cultures as well.
George Alexander
Music Producer, Studio Owner
2
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
George’s Answer
Hey Kimberly,
At the moment, I'm a 33-year-old music producer and I understand what you are feeling. Music was one of the few positive things in my life when I was your age, and made difficulties somehow bearable. Big deal, and a huge part of the human experience for me. So much so, that I decided to pursue a career creating it, because I wanted to offer that positivity to others...
One of the things that's difficult to understand at your age is that you and your parents are different people, and may have different interests, values, priorities, etc. You're also growing into yourself still, and learning to become more and more independent. Sometimes it's difficult to see they want what they think is best for you. You can try to have a few conversations to see if you guys can understand each other better, how you feel, their concerns, and what your hobbies do for you positively. It's also helpful to accept that they may not understand you, and you may not understand them. Then you'd need to find a way to celebrate each other's differences. Until you're 18 and on your own, you're going to have to accept stuff you don't agree with - unless you can grow in communication.
There have been no credible studies that show music and video games rot your brain lol. Quite the contrary. Because it's a pleasurable experience, it's easy to let it take up all your time and let other responsibilities slide. Then it becomes a problem. That's why adults say that... Stay on top of your stuff, don't let your hobbies get in the way, and no one will say anything. That's a skill you must master in life regardless, so rock that now.
Sounds like they love and care about you, so try to be patient with them, communicate often about how you feel, and show you can handle your business (especially if your hobbies help you handle it). Hopefully they'll see you!
Best of luck to you,
George
Find some research done on music and video games' effect on the brain from a credible university/study
Stay on top of your stuff
Communicate with your parents often and be patient with them
At the moment, I'm a 33-year-old music producer and I understand what you are feeling. Music was one of the few positive things in my life when I was your age, and made difficulties somehow bearable. Big deal, and a huge part of the human experience for me. So much so, that I decided to pursue a career creating it, because I wanted to offer that positivity to others...
One of the things that's difficult to understand at your age is that you and your parents are different people, and may have different interests, values, priorities, etc. You're also growing into yourself still, and learning to become more and more independent. Sometimes it's difficult to see they want what they think is best for you. You can try to have a few conversations to see if you guys can understand each other better, how you feel, their concerns, and what your hobbies do for you positively. It's also helpful to accept that they may not understand you, and you may not understand them. Then you'd need to find a way to celebrate each other's differences. Until you're 18 and on your own, you're going to have to accept stuff you don't agree with - unless you can grow in communication.
There have been no credible studies that show music and video games rot your brain lol. Quite the contrary. Because it's a pleasurable experience, it's easy to let it take up all your time and let other responsibilities slide. Then it becomes a problem. That's why adults say that... Stay on top of your stuff, don't let your hobbies get in the way, and no one will say anything. That's a skill you must master in life regardless, so rock that now.
Sounds like they love and care about you, so try to be patient with them, communicate often about how you feel, and show you can handle your business (especially if your hobbies help you handle it). Hopefully they'll see you!
Best of luck to you,
George
George recommends the following next steps:
Ani Grey
Senior Business Program Manager
2
Answers
Redmond, Washington
Updated
Ani’s Answer
Achieving success offers the greatest liberty in life. Doing well in school equips you with the advantage needed to devote more time to your interests. If you can thrive without your parents' pressure, you'll be in a stronger position to bargain for more time for your hobbies. However, if you're lagging, hobbies may be the first to be sacrificed.
Your parents might struggle to see how gaming can turn into a profession. I suggest you allocate some time to be creative. Develop your own game modifications, design unique characters, or create a game on paper. Then, guide your parents through your creative process. This might help them link your enthusiasm for gaming to a potential career.
Your parents might struggle to see how gaming can turn into a profession. I suggest you allocate some time to be creative. Develop your own game modifications, design unique characters, or create a game on paper. Then, guide your parents through your creative process. This might help them link your enthusiasm for gaming to a potential career.