The hormone dopamine plays a vital role when playing games. It's known as the feel-good hormone. When a player completes a level in a game, wins a victory, or receives a reward, the brain releases dopamine.

Gaming and hormones

In today's digital age, games have become a part of everyday life for everyone, from children to adults. Playing games for hours on mobile phones, laptops, and consoles has become commonplace. However, the question constantly arises: is excessive gaming harmful to the mind and body, or does it also have benefits? Scientists suggest that gaming directly impacts our brain and hormonal system. So, let's explore which hormones are activated by gaming and the changes they cause in the body.

The Connection Between Gaming and the Brain:

Nowadays, video games are designed to keep players engaged for long periods of time. To achieve this, the colors, sounds, tasks, reward systems, and levels in games are carefully crafted. Experts say that during gaming, many parts of the brain are simultaneously activated, especially those related to rewards, emotions, and decision-making.

Dopamine, the main hormone in gaming,

It is the first hormone to emerge during gaming. It's known as the feel-good hormone. When a player completes a level in a game, wins, or receives a reward, the brain releases dopamine. This creates a feeling of happiness and excitement, motivating the player to play again. However, if the game is not limited and continues for a long time, the brain begins to release excessive dopamine. This gradually makes the brain less sensitive to this dopamine. As a result, the player has to play more games than before to achieve happiness. This is why excessive gamers may experience symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, lack of focus, and brain fog.

Fight or flight mode is activated.

When playing action-packed and fighting video games, the body's fight or flight response can also be activated. This is the same system that alerts us to danger. During such games, the brain often interprets threats as real, which can lead to anger, anxiety, and aggressive behavior. In this condition, the emotional part of the brain becomes overactive, and logical thinking begins to weaken.

Effects of Adrenaline and Cortisol

Another hormone that increases rapidly during gaming is adrenaline. Adrenaline is released during fast-paced and exciting games, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Continuously, this puts pressure on the body, and players may feel anxious or fatigued. Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, can also increase during gaming. If cortisol remains active for long periods, it can lead to problems like sleep disturbances, mood swings, depression, and junk food cravings.

Is gaming completely dangerous?

Scientists clearly state that gaming isn't inherently harmful. If played in moderation and for a limited time, it can even have benefits. Research shows that gaming in moderation improves concentration, memory, learning speed, and problem-solving skills. Some games even boost creativity and strategic thinking.