Have any of you turned to video games for stress relief?

2018-03-04T22:48:34-05:00

Response by A1C Ian Williams made Mar 4 at 2018 11:03 PM

2018-03-04T23:03:45-05:00

There is stress relief and then there is escapism, SPC Brian Mason every time someone pulls up to any fun engaging activity (sex, alcohol, video games) they should ask if this is blowing off steam or just avoidance of your present situation?

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Mar 4 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-03-04T23:31:33-05:00

Once upon a time I did but then the games started getting in my way, I was becoming addicted to them I guess. I was wasting time more than seek relief from stress. Now I turn to my guitar which not only reduces stress but has become a creative outlet for me. I don't perform or anything like that, I just play for myself and my moods ring out in my impromptu playing.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2018 11:50 PM

2018-03-04T23:50:49-05:00

I read and listen to music.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 12:35 AM

2018-03-05T00:35:28-05:00

I constantly turn to video games as a stress relief, it helps me move my focus from the things that are stressing me, to something much simpler. To each their own though, everyone is different.

Response by CW3 Jeff Held made Mar 5 at 2018 1:21 AM

2018-03-05T01:21:11-05:00

Words with Friends and Candy Crush (yeah, I know). Psychologist told me games like a Grand Theft Auto are good therapy for PTSD. Really not into V-games though.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 1:28 AM

2018-03-05T01:28:54-05:00

Absolutely. I play MMOs like WoW, FFXIV, and ESO. I play Fallout, Mass Effect and TES. Here lately I’ve spent some time on GTA Online building myself a small criminal empire. It’s a great way to decompress.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Mar 5 at 2018 1:35 AM

2018-03-05T01:35:41-05:00

I've never relied on video games to relieve stress, but I enjoy several games of Solitaire. The last video game I played was Pac-Man, which tells you how long ago that was.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 7:20 AM

2018-03-05T07:20:47-05:00

Sometimes I turn to games for stress releif. Mostly computer games like PUBG, Slay The Spire, anything on Steam. My honest to God go to is the gym though - get those endorphins going to relieve stress.

Response by SGT David T. made Mar 5 at 2018 7:47 AM

2018-03-05T07:47:02-05:00

I do. It is a great way to vent my negative emotions and get a bit of a relief from this whole adulating things even for just a short time.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 7:50 AM

2018-03-05T07:50:04-05:00

Playing with your words a little, but “turning to” sounds more like an escape strategy versus stress relief. I think anything that is outside of your norm may be a good stress reliever. For work, I talk to people all day and have to think critically, to relieve my stress I go to a quiet and solitary place and read a paper book. I also leave my digital tethers (cell phone, Apple Watch, iPad, laptop) behind.

Response by Norah Julmis made Mar 5 at 2018 8:10 AM

2018-03-05T08:10:29-05:00

Absolutely! I plan breaks into my day specifically for stress relief. I know not everyone can do that and may play at night or on weekends. But I find that playing RPGs help the most. It's helpful when you can immerse yourself into a character and play out the scenarios. Your mind can be completely elsewhere.

The RPGs I enjoy playing are the Mass Effect Series, Fallout Series, Dragon age series, Civilization, and the Assassin's Creed series. I do play online games like Smite as well.

I do not consider online games or multiplayer modes as a stress relief as you are normally playing as a team and have other people screaming into your headset. Especially for competitive people, it can have the opposite effect of stress relief. We all know those people-they lose a match and chuck their controller, break their keyboard, take it out on their spouse/kids and be mad the rest of the day.

Since I work from home and have small children, I can't always play video games as freely as I used to. Both my husband and I enjoy reading as an alternative. I know some people that enjoy going for a walk/run for stress relief as well. There are other options out there when gaming doesn't work out.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 10:36 AM

2018-03-05T10:36:37-05:00

While I am a huge gamer, I don't know that they are "stress Relief" lol I have had many a cussing session at moders in FPS games, and a few in the "how the hell are you not grabbing that ledge" followed by the 'What do you mean I am carrying to much its only a thousand items" lol

I play online with friends around the world and most often we use the xbox chat as a cheap phone / group conversation to stay in touch. I wont lie there are times when its nice to escape into an alternate reality and play the hero, then again I get the same from reading a book. Its when you take it to excess that you have a problem. When you start thinking of the game or the book and your day is just a count down to when you get to read or play again then you need some help.

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Mar 5 at 2018 11:26 AM

2018-03-05T11:26:56-05:00

No. I do PT.

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Mar 5 at 2018 12:00 PM

2018-03-05T12:00:31-05:00

Time and Stress, Yes. But I have found that they dont really help. Oh they take time, and they distract my mind. However, i seem to be able to create stress in the games! So dont follow my lead...

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 5 at 2018 1:07 PM

2018-03-05T13:07:11-05:00

I didn't "grow up" with gaming...so never gave it much thought until I was in my early 30s. I was still single, had more cash than sense, was trying to "transition", and the attractive woman selling the "XBox" at Best Buy convinced me to lay down a few bills and give it a whirl. At first, I found it engaging...the last time I had picked up a controller, it was Mario Bros. I gave one of the "big name" FPSs a try, and was "hooked" for a little while. Then, it got to be a bit discouraging...I mean, the game was letting me do things with my body I knew I couldn't do in real life. That got me mad dog angry, and I started running hard again...rain, snow, didn't matter. I'd take lunch breaks at the office to go run. I'd even lay out routes that took me over the river so I'd have to swim a couple hundred yards in the middle of the run. I even quit smoking. I got fast again, and felt GREAT. That got me wanting to sharpen up those old skills, so I joined a sportsman club and started shooting every week. A Marine veteran friend of mine at work introduced me to his indoor range...and I started practicing with my sidearm more often. Eventually, I started wondering about other "warrior" skills, and joined a group doing historic edged weapon training. I learned how to fight with a rapier and dagger, how to shoot the longbow. Then, I got married to a wonderful gal, we had a son, and I started to "settle down". Eventually, I picked up those dang smokes again. I can't say that I was "ok" when I first left the service, or that those few years of re-invigorated "training" helped me put some things to bed...but I do know this; finding that maintaining the "warrior" ethos was possible outside of the military went great lengths towards helping me come to terms with stress and life in general.

Gee...makes me want to go put in a few miles just now actually :)

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Mar 5 at 2018 1:34 PM

2018-03-05T13:34:51-05:00

I do at times. I guess mine would be classified more as "escapism". Not into the shooter games. I play the original Xbox, sports simulation games. NCAA Football or Basketball, sometimes Madden NFL. Usually i play in Dynasty mode. I'll pick a weak program and try to build it up. I usually get fired by the computer a couple times before i get successful. I'm currently coaching Auburn after getting fired by Oregon for back to back 4-8 seasons. I'm 0-5 against Bama so far, not good for my future employment....lol
I also play the earlier Civilization games. I like the WWII scenario's. I'll pick Turkey or the Neutrals and try to build them up. Russia is always very eager to destroy me. Hitler's Germany is very quick to use nukes, the SDI program is a must...lol

For actual stress relief....working outside, walking or hopping on my mountain bike does it for me.

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Mar 5 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-03-05T23:31:33-05:00

An entire group of us used to all play COD together after work. Can't say that it didn't help a little bit.

Response by Maj John Bell made Mar 5 at 2018 11:36 PM

2018-03-05T23:36:39-05:00

I split firewood with a maul, even though I have a wood splitter. But I do have one of those hand held low-tech Tetris games next to the commode (probably oversharing hunh?)

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Mar 6 at 2018 2:25 AM

2018-03-06T02:25:39-05:00

Well of course.... much in the same manner as reading a good book, watching a movie, or listening to music. Hobbies are great stress relievers.

Response by SFC Wesley Arnold, Jr made Mar 6 at 2018 9:56 AM

2018-03-06T09:56:44-05:00

I not only use as stress relief, but at one time it was a major way for me to calm my anxiety from PTSD.
#PTSD #Gaming # Gaming & PTSD

Response by LTC Robin Gronovius made Mar 6 at 2018 10:41 AM

2018-03-06T10:41:06-05:00

I played World of Warcraft for over ten years, part as stress relief and just for fun. Haven't played in nearly a year due to time constraints, but it's still installed on my laptop waiting for a day I have some time.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 6 at 2018 10:52 AM

2018-03-06T10:52:57-05:00

I witnessed too many Soldiers who instead of focusing and allocating their time to something productive and measurable, they choose to spend 40+ hours a week playing video games. Sacrificed are their career progression, health, family, and personal interests. I grew up with video games, and have plenty of memories with friends. However, there is a point that every person should use their time in a more meaningful manner.

I attribute the infantilization of our young men and women to multiple factors, one of which is the persistence of these young men and women to entertain themselves with infantile things. They're not growing up because there is no societal pressure to grow up.

Response by PO1 Don Gulizia made Mar 6 at 2018 5:20 PM

2018-03-06T17:20:22-05:00

Yep. To "escape" from adulting, I play Skyrim or Fallout 4 on the kid's XBOX or a few games on the smart phone to veg or kill time. (when I'm at the military pharmacy, I usually have a lot of time to kill.)

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Mar 6 at 2018 6:03 PM

2018-03-06T18:03:20-05:00

Played FIFA with my son as a way to recreate together. I won once or twice of the couple hundred games we played!

Response by SPC Carlos Pantojas made Oct 9 at 2019 8:14 PM

2019-10-09T20:14:26-04:00

Yes I do and many of my veteran buddies have been on Call of Duty and Gears of War and we play a a dead by daylight and we stay on Xbox all night long conversating with one another you know supporting one another just in case somebody might have like an episode of their PTSD so if anybody needs to hit me up I'm down to talk..!

Response by PO2 Michael Roppolo made Oct 9 at 2019 8:16 PM

2019-10-09T20:16:52-04:00

Yes. It's a great way to get out of my own head.

Response by SGT Dwight Nash made Oct 9 at 2019 8:18 PM

2019-10-09T20:18:17-04:00

Yes

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 8:20 PM

2019-10-09T20:20:58-04:00

Absolutely. Its a great stress reliever when I get home.

Response by PO2 Matthew Newman made Oct 9 at 2019 8:25 PM

2019-10-09T20:25:39-04:00

Yes, I have a single game I play when I get home in the evenings. Not every day, but most days for about 1 to 2 hours.
It helps me to take my mind off of stress and to be to relax.

Response by Sgt Kevin Valdez made Oct 9 at 2019 8:29 PM

2019-10-09T20:29:14-04:00

I play many game to take me out of this world for a little while.

Response by Sgt James Turley made Oct 9 at 2019 8:30 PM

2019-10-09T20:30:15-04:00

I game and even stream from time to time. I love just spacing our to some ark or minecraft while listening to my favorite podcast. I mostly do survival and building games. I love it when I finish a big build, definitely a stress reliever for me.

Response by SPC Gary Sanders made Oct 9 at 2019 8:30 PM

2019-10-09T20:30:51-04:00

Helps me try to relax.

Response by SSgt Karsam Gillis made Oct 9 at 2019 8:31 PM

2019-10-09T20:31:14-04:00

Yes great way to decompress and reroute negativity. Also a great way for the whole family to share an experience. Would be awesome if they included the PlayStation 4 platform though. Bummer

Response by SFC Joseph Carter made Oct 9 at 2019 8:31 PM

2019-10-09T20:31:15-04:00

Yes they work at times

Response by SGT Tony Ploughe made Oct 9 at 2019 8:40 PM

2019-10-09T20:40:22-04:00

Duh!

Response by SP5 Robert Washington made Oct 9 at 2019 8:40 PM

2019-10-09T20:40:28-04:00

Certainly I do. It's a great escape and therapy for me

Response by SN Amiel Tutolo made Oct 9 at 2019 8:40 PM

2019-10-09T20:40:45-04:00

Yes I play Guns of Boom on my Android phone and just about anything my son wants to play (HALO, Call of Duty, Medal of Honor)

Response by PFC Noel Nason made Oct 9 at 2019 8:41 PM

2019-10-09T20:41:15-04:00

Yes, I usually tend to play RPG games, but also enjoy Rocksmith since it allows me to learn my guitar.

Response by SSG Jimmy McClellan made Oct 9 at 2019 8:42 PM

2019-10-09T20:42:48-04:00

Yes like PUBG

Response by SPC Carlos Gomez made Oct 9 at 2019 8:45 PM

2019-10-09T20:45:06-04:00

Willing to try.

Response by SGT Chris Hall made Oct 9 at 2019 8:48 PM

2019-10-09T20:48:59-04:00

I love playing games like madden, call of duty, deer hunting, baseball, mortal kombat, etc. It does really help with stress relief and relaxation.

Response by SPC Nathan Rardon made Oct 9 at 2019 8:49 PM

2019-10-09T20:49:15-04:00

Absolutely, even though its been years I still love to get into Heroes of the Storm, Dota2, and Total War:WarHammer 2. There is also a bigger list but this is what I do on a regular. Games helped me when I served and still help me now. They make me thing and continue to use my mind while I can also take my frustration out on virtual targets while being in the safety of my home.

Response by CPL Damien Luten made Oct 9 at 2019 8:50 PM

2019-10-09T20:50:11-04:00

Yeah its a great stress reliever for me personally

Response by LCpl Nelson Marrero made Oct 9 at 2019 8:50 PM

2019-10-09T20:50:46-04:00

I game to get away. I have many issues and gaming keeps me focused

Response by SGT Sascha Marlow made Oct 9 at 2019 8:53 PM

2019-10-09T20:53:09-04:00

I tend to play RPGs and Action Adventure games to get the stress out.

Response by Sgt James Sheedy made Oct 9 at 2019 8:54 PM

2019-10-09T20:54:38-04:00

Good way to relax

Response by SFC Judy Bell made Oct 9 at 2019 8:57 PM

2019-10-09T20:57:08-04:00

Yes, the simple games help me relax. The violent ones I do not like

Response by SA Lisa Graves made Oct 9 at 2019 8:58 PM

2019-10-09T20:58:31-04:00

Yes

Response by PFC Wesley Harden made Oct 9 at 2019 8:59 PM

2019-10-09T20:59:16-04:00

All the time plus i game with other veta and family membera of vets its fun.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 8:59 PM

2019-10-09T20:59:34-04:00

I prefer racing and flying games.

Response by SSG Terry O'Donal made Oct 9 at 2019 9:00 PM

2019-10-09T21:00:49-04:00

I do the same. I play first person shooter games like Call of Duty from Steam or World of War games where I get to kill things to let off steam and decompress. Now I hear the VA is setting us up for free stuff on Steam. Definitely something to check on.

Response by PO3 Kevin Jones made Oct 9 at 2019 9:02 PM

2019-10-09T21:02:28-04:00

I find that video games lower my stress.

Response by Cpl John Adamson made Oct 9 at 2019 9:04 PM

2019-10-09T21:04:04-04:00

Yep. More fun now that my son is 13 and can compete with me.

Response by Sgt Christian Ramos made Oct 9 at 2019 9:06 PM

2019-10-09T21:06:01-04:00

To keep my mind busy.

Response by Cpl Stephen Hazlett made Oct 9 at 2019 9:06 PM

2019-10-09T21:06:25-04:00

Video games and alcohol

Response by LCpl Jon Stephens made Oct 9 at 2019 9:07 PM

2019-10-09T21:07:19-04:00

Oh yea I do. You gotta keep yourself having fun. I love gaming, always have and always will. It's the one thing that is consistent. FPS are great but any game with coop or strategy (RTS) I find to be best for me

Response by SA Bill Davidson made Oct 9 at 2019 9:07 PM

2019-10-09T21:07:44-04:00

no I dont think they give me stress if anything they take my mind off of everything and relax me

Response by LCpl Antoinette Setliff made Oct 9 at 2019 9:08 PM

2019-10-09T21:08:30-04:00

I play more of the puzzle type games, but my husband and boys enjoy the shooter games. My main stress relief is hopping on my trike and going for a long ride.

Response by MSG Carl Wells made Oct 9 at 2019 9:08 PM

2019-10-09T21:08:43-04:00

OH HELL YES! I started with tabletop war games like Firefight in the late '70s. Got into computers for the newer games in the '80s. Falcon 3.0/4.0, the Steel Panther franchise, Close Combat franchise, and Age of Empires.

Response by Cpl Ty Sutten made Oct 9 at 2019 9:09 PM

2019-10-09T21:09:05-04:00

Cool click bait rally point. “Hey vets want free video games?” Literally just a link to a thread about people taking about video games, classic .gov shit.

Response by Cpl Christopher Foreman made Oct 9 at 2019 9:09 PM

2019-10-09T21:09:45-04:00

Yes I have, it honestly helps more than anything else. Just going able to escape once in a while really helps.

Response by CPL Scott Favilla made Oct 9 at 2019 9:10 PM

2019-10-09T21:10:33-04:00

Yuppers; Game on

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 9:10 PM

2019-10-09T21:10:39-04:00

Most days I play video games when I get completely overwhelmed. It pulls me out of my head and let's me "reset".

Response by SFC Dennis Lawson made Oct 9 at 2019 9:11 PM

2019-10-09T21:11:41-04:00

Yes it really helps to take the mind off things.

Response by CPL Scott Favilla made Oct 9 at 2019 9:11 PM

2019-10-09T21:11:45-04:00

Yuppers--Game on

Response by PO2 Kyle Coker made Oct 9 at 2019 9:12 PM

2019-10-09T21:12:48-04:00

It's about my only relief. I dont mix well with others anymore, few opportunities to make new friends. My Marines are spread across the country so meeting with them isn't easy either. So my only release is via video games. Better than a bottle I guess.

Response by SPC William Harris III made Oct 9 at 2019 9:14 PM

2019-10-09T21:14:09-04:00

Yes puzzle and adventure games to keep brain going and relax

Response by Cpl Albert Tejeda made Oct 9 at 2019 9:14 PM

2019-10-09T21:14:34-04:00

Yes

Response by SPC Janet Keiser made Oct 9 at 2019 9:14 PM

2019-10-09T21:14:40-04:00

LOTRO and just getting back into starwars the old republic

Response by TSgt Jon Delfel made Oct 9 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-10-09T21:15:08-04:00

Yes

Response by Sgt Eric Eggleston made Oct 9 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-10-09T21:15:38-04:00

I play ESO Daily when I can. What to Play out a fantasy character or two. And get with people around the world.

Response by LCpl Levie Williams made Oct 9 at 2019 9:15 PM

2019-10-09T21:15:54-04:00

Thanks for the free game

Response by HN Roger Brewer made Oct 9 at 2019 9:16 PM

2019-10-09T21:16:10-04:00

Flight simulation for me. The world is huge. and I like to explore.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 9:17 PM

2019-10-09T21:17:50-04:00

Most deffentialy do. It's something I can do to escape real life and just unwind

Response by PFC Josh Govier made Oct 9 at 2019 9:18 PM

2019-10-09T21:18:41-04:00

I find myself getting into games that have a good storyline. Also I find sports games like nhl 20, madden ss ways to decompress but it also helps me work through things. Stress, etc

Response by SSG Joseph Ferguson made Oct 9 at 2019 9:21 PM

2019-10-09T21:21:28-04:00

I started playing “Romance of the three kingdoms” while on recruiting duty in 1990. Fascinating story.

Response by PV2 Jeff Maerz made Oct 9 at 2019 9:22 PM

2019-10-09T21:22:29-04:00

Yes alot

Response by FN Barry Daniel made Oct 9 at 2019 9:23 PM

2019-10-09T21:23:29-04:00

No so much, I have severe PTSD. When I play it brings back nightmares. Some games are not as bad so I do play sometimes.

Response by SA Carl Andrews made Oct 9 at 2019 9:23 PM

2019-10-09T21:23:32-04:00

I have. It's very relaxing.

Response by CPL John Jones made Oct 9 at 2019 9:23 PM

2019-10-09T21:23:45-04:00

Yes ats truck driver relaxes me

Response by SMSgt Steven Wait made Oct 9 at 2019 9:23 PM

2019-10-09T21:23:52-04:00

Sometimes play Wii

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 9:27 PM

2019-10-09T21:27:30-04:00

Of course

Response by CPT Edward Baker made Oct 9 at 2019 9:27 PM

2019-10-09T21:27:32-04:00

Gaming helps in a lot of different ways. For me it helps to keep my mind off of the pain and the stress. I play starcraft 2, Diablo ROS, Star Trek, and Zday. Sometimes it's not really about the game but meeting other vets and sharing experiences and supporting each other.

Response by PV2 Paul Pilgrim made Oct 9 at 2019 9:27 PM

2019-10-09T21:27:52-04:00

Sometimes

Response by SPC Michelle Murray made Oct 9 at 2019 9:29 PM

2019-10-09T21:29:11-04:00

Yes. I prefer RPG's because I can escape from the entire world. Or games like Sniper or anything with explosions. It helps ease my anger.

Response by SSgt Chuck Blackburn made Oct 9 at 2019 9:30 PM

2019-10-09T21:30:04-04:00

Yes

Response by SrA Terrence Trotman made Oct 9 at 2019 9:30 PM

2019-10-09T21:30:43-04:00

I’ve always used video games as a stress reliever. For me it’s very relaxing.

Response by SSgt Chuck Blackburn made Oct 9 at 2019 9:30 PM

2019-10-09T21:30:47-04:00

Yes I do quite often.

Response by PO3 Lydia Jackson made Oct 9 at 2019 9:31 PM

2019-10-09T21:31:21-04:00

Absolutely

Response by SPC Jason LaBelle made Oct 9 at 2019 9:32 PM

2019-10-09T21:32:41-04:00

Yes they do i enjoy ps4 games and its a good way to stay in touch with those i served with

Response by PO3 Steve Long made Oct 9 at 2019 9:33 PM

2019-10-09T21:33:32-04:00

Yes, I played a lot of the "Call Of Duty" games, both on my own and team play. The camaraderie is similar to being in service. The action is mind consuming to help distract from pain caused by my service connected disabilities. Plus the games are enjoyable.

Response by SSgt Richard Shelatz made Oct 9 at 2019 9:33 PM

2019-10-09T21:33:47-04:00

Yes it helps when I am getting worked up. It works like a stop thought for me.

Response by SGT Kawaynne Davis made Oct 9 at 2019 9:34 PM

2019-10-09T21:34:46-04:00

Yes I do use video games as a way to relieve stress. I usually play a lot of sports games like Madden, NBA 2K, and I also play shooters such as Tom Clancy's: Division and Call of Duty.

Response by Cpl Thomas Ruggles made Oct 9 at 2019 9:35 PM

2019-10-09T21:35:54-04:00

All the time

Response by PV2 Houston Roberts made Oct 9 at 2019 9:36 PM

2019-10-09T21:36:23-04:00

I have. For some reason military games really seem to help with my PTSD.

Response by ENS Carlos Feliciano made Oct 9 at 2019 9:37 PM

2019-10-09T21:37:26-04:00

I have and it helps, but being disabled and not being able to play football or basketball with my kids Video games is the best next thing.

Response by PO2 Jamie Collins made Oct 9 at 2019 9:38 PM

2019-10-09T21:38:04-04:00

Yes, video games help with my anxiety and relieves stress. I feel like I have more control when I’m gaming. I’m also a bit more structured as to what and how I’m going to do things.

Response by SPC Robert Boggs made Oct 9 at 2019 9:38 PM

2019-10-09T21:38:35-04:00

Yes, it helps me get out of my head for a bit and forget the problems around me. I like that I am able to have goals to meet and am rewarded for meeting them.

Response by A1C Brian Cales made Oct 9 at 2019 9:38 PM

2019-10-09T21:38:38-04:00

Yes been playing world of warcraft for 15 yeara

Response by SSG Brian Sivyer made Oct 9 at 2019 9:42 PM

2019-10-09T21:42:17-04:00

When it became apparent that I was no longer going to be able to wrench, at the suggestion of my Dr., I turned to video games to relieve my stress. They saved my sanity and my marriage.

Response by CPO Jim Burns made Oct 9 at 2019 9:43 PM

2019-10-09T21:43:09-04:00

Play Epic PWI to relax and escape

Response by SPC Adan Gonzalez made Oct 9 at 2019 9:45 PM

2019-10-09T21:45:07-04:00

Everyday

Response by LCpl Rex Anderson made Oct 9 at 2019 9:46 PM

2019-10-09T21:46:52-04:00

Video game's can relieve stress. Some can cause stress.

Response by PV2 Tony Albano made Oct 9 at 2019 9:47 PM

2019-10-09T21:47:19-04:00

Most definitely. It helps venting for me.

Response by SSgt Andrew Urban made Oct 9 at 2019 9:48 PM

2019-10-09T21:48:40-04:00

yuuuuuuuuuuuuuup

Response by SPC Paul Golden made Oct 9 at 2019 9:49 PM

2019-10-09T21:49:31-04:00

Absolutely. I recently took a weekend getaway to DC (from Baltimore) to participate in the Pokémon World Championships. I registered to play Pokkén Tournament in that event and was a great way to de-stress.

Response by PO1 Paula C made Oct 9 at 2019 9:49 PM

2019-10-09T21:49:58-04:00

I love playing games on my phone and computer. It's relaxing and a great distraction. I do mostly puzzle type like Sudoku, MahJong solitaire, rummi kub, hidden object, word search, Angry Birds, zen koi, mazes and coloring. They take me out of my obsessive thoughts and worries.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 9:50 PM

2019-10-09T21:50:54-04:00

Yes.it helps me.

Response by SPC Tanya Mancini made Oct 9 at 2019 9:52 PM

2019-10-09T21:52:22-04:00

Big time stress reliever!

Response by SGT Mike Boettger made Oct 9 at 2019 9:52 PM

2019-10-09T21:52:35-04:00

I personally have started playing MCOC I have found a lot of veterans on this game. We all believe that it has helped us with our PTSD and stress. I was even told by one of my fiends that he has asked the VA to help with getting them to pay for some of the game.

Response by TSgt Joe Carr made Oct 9 at 2019 9:52 PM

2019-10-09T21:52:43-04:00

My wife had multiple strokes a few years back and we both play Elder Scrolls Online almost daily. It helps her hand eye coordination helps both of us relax. Big plus is our daughters also play from other states so we have family game nights.

Response by PO2 Linzy Hill made Oct 9 at 2019 9:54 PM

2019-10-09T21:54:42-04:00

Yes

Response by Cpl Brian Dull made Oct 9 at 2019 9:55 PM

2019-10-09T21:55:02-04:00

I love playing "Gears of War".

Response by SSG Jonathan Ware made Oct 9 at 2019 9:55 PM

2019-10-09T21:55:09-04:00

Yes, Video games such as Backgammon, Dominos and Alien Shooter games helps me to relax, take my mind of things that cause stress and helps me to concentrate.

Response by SPC Carl McKain made Oct 9 at 2019 9:55 PM

2019-10-09T21:55:11-04:00

Space Engineers mostly these days

Response by PO2 Robert Macrae made Oct 9 at 2019 9:55 PM

2019-10-09T21:55:58-04:00

Yes, sustained relief without interfering with my capacity to conduct day to day business of my life

Response by SP5 Joseph Lafrance made Oct 9 at 2019 9:56 PM

2019-10-09T21:56:53-04:00

I’ve played warface for almost 2 yrs now and it does actually, for some reason some say why to me the sounds and familiar experience granted some is fictional but the basic feelings of it makes me at home.

Response by SGT David Betsy made Oct 9 at 2019 9:57 PM

2019-10-09T21:57:38-04:00

I am an official gamer putting 1000 plus hours into video games. So much so I am told it is something that makes me happy. There is definitely a stress releasing, endorphin rush when I first get on. I warn others that it can occupy a lot of your time that could be spent on something considered productive.

Response by SSgt Gavin McNew made Oct 9 at 2019 9:57 PM

2019-10-09T21:57:52-04:00

Yes I have, it seems to help a lot.

Response by SSgt Anna Grubb made Oct 9 at 2019 9:58 PM

2019-10-09T21:58:30-04:00

Yes!! RPG's and Strategy

Response by SSgt Cheryl Combs made Oct 9 at 2019 9:58 PM

2019-10-09T21:58:35-04:00

I play many different types of games

Response by PO2 Jordan Thaller made Oct 9 at 2019 10:01 PM

2019-10-09T22:01:44-04:00

Absolutely I think that the problem solving and strategy of video games is a welcome distraction when i am stressed.

Response by CPL John Jones made Oct 9 at 2019 10:02 PM

2019-10-09T22:02:30-04:00

Yes ATS Trucking helps relax me helps my depression .

Response by PO1 James Kaeha made Oct 9 at 2019 10:02 PM

2019-10-09T22:02:56-04:00

Yes I do...

Response by SPC Darin Williams made Oct 9 at 2019 10:02 PM

2019-10-09T22:02:57-04:00

I have many times as it seems to take me away from the negative things in my life and get me into a world of my own.

Response by PFC Angel Phillips made Oct 9 at 2019 10:03 PM

2019-10-09T22:03:01-04:00

Absolutely. I especially like puzzle games that require more hand eye coordination

Response by SGT Robert Turner made Oct 9 at 2019 10:04 PM

2019-10-09T22:04:17-04:00

Yes I have turned to video games to relieve my stress. The more stress I am feeling the higher my score.

Response by LTC James Jones made Oct 9 at 2019 10:04 PM

2019-10-09T22:04:37-04:00

Great source to occupy time

Response by C Jay made Oct 9 at 2019 10:05 PM

2019-10-09T22:05:52-04:00

As a gamer who has been a caregiver now for 3 family members, and caring for one right now with TBI/dementia and mental illness, let me tell you, it feels GOOD to get into WoW and beat the...outta things. Sometimes I am a healer and a tank too. (both require much more thinking). I find it helps with anxiety, frustration, as the VA when it comes to medical care is pretty much a useless and cruel entity. S.O. was not the gamer like I was, but he still, even with all his issues, logs in and plays, or tries to, not the way he was able to once apon a time but he still finds plenty of things to do. Is there stress in video games like WoW. YOU BETCHA. And there is trolling too. But you learn to get a sense of humor or trash talk with the best of them. You learn to "git gud" or go home. The thing about most video games, esp MMORPGS, is there are many things you can do inside them. Do you want to RP, then RP, do you want to PVP then PVP, that bugs you go PVE, run group content, run single content, it's all good. I think its great for controlling stress and giving it a healthy outlet and it actually helps LOWER anxiety! I've tried some FPS games but that's not my thing, maybe for others it would be. AND WE ARE NO SPRING CHICKENS either...old enough to be most player's parents, yet we still are big into it. I SAY GO FOR IT!

Response by SSG Ted Seal made Oct 9 at 2019 10:06 PM

2019-10-09T22:06:11-04:00

Yes, and they do assist

Response by PO3 Randy Rogers made Oct 9 at 2019 10:12 PM

2019-10-09T22:12:53-04:00

I play games most all day

Response by A1C Marg Lum made Oct 9 at 2019 10:16 PM

2019-10-09T22:16:32-04:00

I never did video games so I'm going to give it a try.

Response by PO3 Patrick Lambert made Oct 9 at 2019 10:17 PM

2019-10-09T22:17:57-04:00

Best way I can sort things out and take out my frustrations especially with my disabilities exercising is out and doing tons of yard work is out. So I use video games to escape our world for a little while.

Response by PO2 Rick Davis made Oct 9 at 2019 10:19 PM

2019-10-09T22:19:18-04:00

Only when I'm stressed for no reason

Response by CPL Anne Younger made Oct 9 at 2019 10:21 PM

2019-10-09T22:21:35-04:00

I use online games that are challenging but also sedate in pace as a sort of zen meditative practice. My mind can wander a bit but the stressors are not right there hammering at me. I often come up with a solution to something bothering me while playing. I especially like crosswords and logic puuzzles.

Response by SrA Philip Belcher made Oct 9 at 2019 10:27 PM

2019-10-09T22:27:21-04:00

Yes

Response by SP5 Thomas Keller made Oct 9 at 2019 10:31 PM

2019-10-09T22:31:19-04:00

I used to use them in an attempt to burn up anxiety and to fight depression

Response by PO3 Brian Graham made Oct 9 at 2019 10:32 PM

2019-10-09T22:32:57-04:00

Yes

Response by Cpl Mike Hernandez made Oct 9 at 2019 10:33 PM

2019-10-09T22:33:01-04:00

Honestly probably the only go to for unwinding and dropping everything going on around me. Up there with music

Response by SGT Steven Marks made Oct 9 at 2019 10:36 PM

2019-10-09T22:36:36-04:00

Yes, games help deal with Stress. Hard levels though may cause frustration so I must take breaks and try again later.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 10:41 PM

2019-10-09T22:41:31-04:00

Undoubtedly an unequivocal Yes! Also gives me time with my adult Veteran Children. Its Awesome!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 10:41 PM

2019-10-09T22:41:43-04:00

Yes. Sometimes when I feel overwhelmed I tend to turn to video games or music when I cannot get out of the house.

Response by LCpl Stan McCombs made Oct 9 at 2019 10:42 PM

2019-10-09T22:42:06-04:00

I like video games to relieve stress sometimes, then again if I can’t kill the big boss, it increases my stress level until I achieve my goal eventually.

Response by SFC Clarence Davis made Oct 9 at 2019 10:45 PM

2019-10-09T22:45:42-04:00

SFC C DAVIS (RETIRED)
I will love to, tp work on stress, attitude, just be mad all the times. I need something to take the edge off. How could I get the free vedio game?

Response by SGT Roy Lawson made Oct 9 at 2019 10:56 PM

2019-10-09T22:56:19-04:00

I raced cars on dirt tracks and did a lot of drag racing and still love to race even on my PS4

Response by MAJ Christian Beck made Oct 9 at 2019 10:57 PM

2019-10-09T22:57:02-04:00

Yes! Actually anything that you can get totally involved in mentally acts as a 'blocker' to trauma or combat stress related 'flashbacks'.

Response by 2d Lt Shawn Morin made Oct 9 at 2019 10:58 PM

2019-10-09T22:58:43-04:00

You bet. Madden, Swtor, zelda, and more. Very centering. Even Call of Duty and violent games... for me they are just a way to be competitive and practice hand eye.

Response by AB James Hendricks made Oct 9 at 2019 11:02 PM

2019-10-09T23:02:19-04:00

Yes sometimes I want to take my stress out with the In game stuff and also communication to other players helps me talk and work things out kinda like going to groups.

Response by SPC Glenn Haring made Oct 9 at 2019 11:12 PM

2019-10-09T23:12:15-04:00

It is the way I relax. It does push stress away. I find the mental attention needed works my brain in a good way like increased attention and awareness. Also you make gaming friends when you play multiplayer games.

Response by SrA Robert Russ made Oct 9 at 2019 11:28 PM

2019-10-09T23:28:48-04:00

Yes. Xbox 1 is my go to. RDR2, COD, Madden, etc

Response by SPC Travis Simpson made Oct 9 at 2019 11:31 PM

2019-10-09T23:31:24-04:00

I do and even use different platforms and types of games depending upon my stress level.

Response by SSgt Jesse Johnson made Oct 9 at 2019 11:36 PM

2019-10-09T23:36:30-04:00

yes, they help a good amount, just carefull of the game, some can cause flashbacks and such

Response by SSgt Michael Mathews made Oct 9 at 2019 11:44 PM

2019-10-09T23:44:25-04:00

Doom (2016) has to be my favorite stress reliever but online co-op games like destiny and the devision give me a chance to be social. I would like to see guys get recognized on their gamer tags, for their service. Something like a simple badge or unit insignia would be a pretty cool. I’d like to be able to see other vets when I’m online so we can stick together. I just feel like other vets are the only ones who get me. Is there some place online we can meet up and play? Gaming with civilians seems to lead to too many questions. Maybe I’m off on this one, but give me a thumbs up if you agree.

Response by SN Brian Nessler made Oct 9 at 2019 11:46 PM

2019-10-09T23:46:58-04:00

If you are into a game, PTSD fades into background noise.

Response by SP5 Michael Foster made Oct 9 at 2019 11:47 PM

2019-10-09T23:47:11-04:00

I have not!

Response by SPC Veronica D made Oct 9 at 2019 11:58 PM

2019-10-09T23:58:04-04:00

I play to relieve stress and my children loves to see just see me get up and move.

Response by PO2 Jibri Usher made Oct 9 at 2019 11:59 PM

2019-10-09T23:59:57-04:00

No video games do not relieve stress, however video games in the long term will cause more stress to service members and civilians. Reason why I used to play them and began to lose focus on more important factors like having a healthy relationship with my friend and family. Games become an addiction and you lose sight on what's important in your future. Just cause a majority of the world plays them I say on the contrary to what the masses are doing and stop living in a fantasy world and wake up.

Response by SGT Ronald Hearn made Oct 10 at 2019 12:04 AM

2019-10-10T00:04:52-04:00

Super playing Wow for stress relief and fight boredom in a sedentary job just waiting and fixing broken things. But I move more now and lost 10 lbs so far ;)

Response by SSgt Ike Kiser made Oct 10 at 2019 12:07 AM

2019-10-10T00:07:28-04:00

I started up a virtual racing team in XBOX 360 Forza 4 called VVIRL( Veterans Virtual International Racing League) to deal with injury down time. The times I need to be still to recover physically, yet keep my reaction time and perception of time, to the .001 of a second, sharp. Many guys have moved on from XBOX 360, but those of you still lagging behind the technology curve like me, come race a Forza 4 VVIRL endurance race. They are usually an hour long. Or, just look for ORBC (Original Red Bull Crew). I'm the last guy from that team left on the 360. We were some Air Force vets who enjoy motor sports through racing sims.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 12:21 AM

2019-10-10T00:21:21-04:00

I definitely do, Forza Horizon 4 and motorsport 6 as well as Destiny 2 on PS4. I usually game with my wife so it's a nice break from the lull of adulting.

Response by SPC Emmanuel Galloza made Oct 10 at 2019 12:22 AM

2019-10-10T00:22:54-04:00

I like mmorpg games with stories to tell it keeps my mind occupied and relieves stress and a nice way to connect with other vets when online

Response by PO3 Phil Rewa made Oct 10 at 2019 12:25 AM

2019-10-10T00:25:43-04:00

Been the most beneficial thing. People around me don't understand how the escape is helpful and I feel judged so that sucks.

Response by PFC Jeff Helm made Oct 10 at 2019 12:26 AM

2019-10-10T00:26:22-04:00

All the time

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 12:28 AM

2019-10-10T00:28:57-04:00

Yes a lot

Response by SGT Jeff Masser made Oct 10 at 2019 12:36 AM

2019-10-10T00:36:29-04:00

I do. I play games like Borderlands 3 and the Fallout series. I also collect retro video games that I played back in the day, like Sega Genesis, Nintendo, TurboGrafx and Neo Geo

Response by MSgt David Rivera made Oct 10 at 2019 12:40 AM

2019-10-10T00:40:57-04:00

I absolutely turn to video games to relieve stress. I appreciate games that reward teamwork to achieve objectives.

Response by PO2 Chad Thompson-Smith made Oct 10 at 2019 12:45 AM

2019-10-10T00:45:24-04:00

Without a doubt gaming has been a great outlet for me from childhood on through my time in Navy, and still to this day I game several times a week.

Response by SPC Maurice Stallworth made Oct 10 at 2019 12:48 AM

2019-10-10T00:48:25-04:00

Absolutely!!! Ever since I discovered Super Mario back in 88. It’s the easiest way for me to just decompress and zone out. Plus it’s a good way to work out your brain and stuff(if your playing the right game lol)

Response by SPC Josh Williams made Oct 10 at 2019 12:49 AM

2019-10-10T00:49:59-04:00

Yes. I play sports games like NBA 2k. It also helps me connect with those around me.

Response by SSG James Hale made Oct 10 at 2019 12:52 AM

2019-10-10T00:52:03-04:00

daily

Response by SPC Timothy Poplin II made Oct 10 at 2019 1:02 AM

2019-10-10T01:02:44-04:00

It allows for a place I can control with out stress or too much pressure. A place to work things out and take my mind away from things for s bit

Response by 1LT Sean Sebastian made Oct 10 at 2019 1:10 AM

2019-10-10T01:10:52-04:00

This sounds so much like an “After School Special” question. Illicit, transactional, and deviant. In reality there are more than 200m Americans (over 67%) who play digital/video games of one form or another. That said, gaming is fun and immersive and may provide an old adrenaline junkie like me a relatively risk free thrill. So the question isn’t totally out of left field. But consider that I’m in my 40s and played my first console game in 1981. I’ve had one form or another of “video game” outlet ever since. If there’s a clinical interest in this question, you may want to refine it a bit.

Response by SPC Joshua Comita made Oct 10 at 2019 1:15 AM

2019-10-10T01:15:30-04:00

Its my biggest stress relief, i have a gaming PC and xbox and ps4. im on one of those at least a few hours a day. i play pretty much every genre but am partial to military games.

Response by SSG Thomas Martin made Oct 10 at 2019 1:18 AM

2019-10-10T01:18:50-04:00

Yes

Response by PO2 John Duke made Oct 10 at 2019 1:30 AM

2019-10-10T01:30:58-04:00

Yes, I have at times. It’s helpful to distract my mind. None frequently

Response by SPC Jon Carpenter made Oct 10 at 2019 1:31 AM

2019-10-10T01:31:08-04:00

Yes, playing gets the mind busy on other things. Call of Duty games are a no go for me. I dont enjoy fps games anymore. Skyrim and RPG and Sports games are the best for me.

Response by FN David Parker made Oct 10 at 2019 1:57 AM

2019-10-10T01:57:13-04:00

Yes I do. I race, rpg, and space games.

Response by SPC Erik Dominick made Oct 10 at 2019 2:09 AM

2019-10-10T02:09:48-04:00

Definitely have, been gaming since the Atari 2600 and gaming has been my go to for blowing off steam

Response by PO2 John "jay" Bernardi made Oct 10 at 2019 2:11 AM

2019-10-10T02:11:41-04:00

As long as they're free.... subscription or IAP games can drive me nuts

Response by SPC Randall Raile made Oct 10 at 2019 2:12 AM

2019-10-10T02:12:08-04:00

Destiny 2 and world of Warcraft.

Response by LCpl Eric Minch made Oct 10 at 2019 2:23 AM

2019-10-10T02:23:45-04:00

I use IRacing and Farm Simulator to relieve my stress. I also do the endurance events to help with it usually on IRacing the daytona 24.

Response by CPL Max Miranda made Oct 10 at 2019 3:08 AM

2019-10-10T03:08:13-04:00

Always, usually during a season like right now until November, then well you lnow Xmas comes

Response by Sgt Louis R B. made Oct 10 at 2019 3:20 AM

2019-10-10T03:20:38-04:00

I play Blitz and Solitare on my computer to waste time and get my mind away from life

Response by Cpl Eric Highley made Oct 10 at 2019 3:31 AM

2019-10-10T03:31:19-04:00

I play several games as stress relief, I even stream at http://www.twitch.tv/semperhighley where I game and try to discuss veteran issues.

Twitch

Twitch is the world's leading video platform and community for gamers.

Response by CPL Wilmer Torres made Oct 10 at 2019 3:41 AM

2019-10-10T03:41:29-04:00

Yes, I do it a lot. It helps my PTSD. I can’t concentrate in different things other than thinking on what happened during war.

Response by PO3 Michael Gary made Oct 10 at 2019 4:07 AM

2019-10-10T04:07:10-04:00

I can completely submerge myself in a game and leave the petty crap on the outside!

Response by SP5 Cherie Corpron made Oct 10 at 2019 4:11 AM

2019-10-10T04:11:30-04:00

absolutely! i have been playing WoW (world of warcraft) for many years now. i have ptsd, agoaphobia (very related to my ptsd), panic attacks, and some other physical diagnoses. WoW has been not only stress relief, it has been my window on the world and has allowed me to interact with the world in a safe and non threatening way. i have panic attacks if i go into crowds or even when meeting new people, yet i can make new friends in the game and not have that happen. if anything feels unsafe i can just log out for awhile. the people i meet online are from all over the world, intelligent, and have a huge variety of outlooks, backgrounds, cultures and views and this helps me see outside of myself. i have made some very close and supportive friends whom i also talk to on skype and facebook. other than my family members, it is my social network, and i feel it is essential for my peace of mind.

Response by CPO Joseph Malay made Oct 10 at 2019 4:17 AM

2019-10-10T04:17:45-04:00

Yes They Help with chronic pain and PTSD by taking my mind off of things......

Response by FA Jackie Schlageter made Oct 10 at 2019 4:20 AM

2019-10-10T04:20:58-04:00

Sometimes. I have. I am 100% NSC Disabled and I found out about 20 years after the fact that a injury I received in the navy could be the cause of a lot of my problems and the Government says my records burned in Atlanta so they can't give me a SC disability.

Response by SPC David Badger made Oct 10 at 2019 4:22 AM

2019-10-10T04:22:38-04:00

YES! but I have to kill all sound first. I play older type games where you don't look down a gun barrel or sight a specific object. no gore - just the tally of how many killed or wounded. I also play Soluetare, Chess, Souduko, Majoung, I'm also a terrible speller. every program needs a spell checker in it. So I don't socialize much as I'm also a two finger typest. The Games help put me in a safe place.

Response by PO2 Dan Armstrong made Oct 10 at 2019 5:25 AM

2019-10-10T05:25:51-04:00

Yes. They provide me an opportunity to unwind and not “think” for a while. I do limit my time so as to not alienate my family or make them feel that I am using them to isolate myself.

Response by SPC Anthony DeCamp made Oct 10 at 2019 5:49 AM

2019-10-10T05:49:45-04:00

Yes I have. I play games that allow me to create and destroy as I see fit such as Minecraft and 7 days to die on pc. I also play ark (as frustrating as that game is) and elite dangerous on ps4.

Response by Sgt Christopher Vrablic made Oct 10 at 2019 6:15 AM

2019-10-10T06:15:55-04:00

Yes, I use to play video games almost non stop for hours upon hours. Now I monitor my escape from reality. I mostly play shooters and madden. Almost lost my family over it until I learned how to monitor the escape of my demons inside.

Response by SFC Peter Frye made Oct 10 at 2019 6:16 AM

2019-10-10T06:16:40-04:00

Yes, I really enjoy Fallout

Response by SrA Barry Farley made Oct 10 at 2019 6:17 AM

2019-10-10T06:17:17-04:00

Sure, it's a wonderful separation from the nuances of a stress-filled day. Obtaining goals, recovering once lost treasure, or just pitting your raw skill against another makes me feel in control, able to do the unimaginable, plan my attack, and develop strategies with no real-world repercussions. If I fail, I can always try again. This time getting a little bit further or just learning what it takes to break down the barrier that was keeping me from my goal.

Response by SGT Athena Rose made Oct 10 at 2019 6:22 AM

2019-10-10T06:22:51-04:00

Played for years while active duty, reserve and as a veteran.

Response by SSG Chris Simmons made Oct 10 at 2019 6:28 AM

2019-10-10T06:28:25-04:00

Yes I do

Response by SCPO Timothy Phillips made Oct 10 at 2019 6:42 AM

2019-10-10T06:42:45-04:00

Sometimes I use games to relieve stress

Response by SGT Chris Wagoner made Oct 10 at 2019 6:46 AM

2019-10-10T06:46:42-04:00

Absolutely! I find them to very stress relieving. And depending on what platform and game you play you can also play with other vets or patriots and it makes playing even more fun!

Response by PFC Robert M. made Oct 10 at 2019 6:54 AM

2019-10-10T06:54:47-04:00

I have played for hours on end in the past but later on I've discovered that games are an escape and avoidance to face my demons aka. PTSD ( and emotions ) for which I wasn't receiving a treatment yet. Once I completed the 12 step STAIR program, something has "clicked" in my head and don't nearly play as much.

Response by LCpl Joe Snyder made Oct 10 at 2019 7:06 AM

2019-10-10T07:06:44-04:00

No just something too do.

Response by A1C Faith Sc Steinberg made Oct 10 at 2019 7:20 AM

2019-10-10T07:20:17-04:00

My husband and I both are veterans. We often play games together for stress relief and bonding.

Response by SGT Jose Cano made Oct 10 at 2019 7:23 AM

2019-10-10T07:23:17-04:00

Yes

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 7:24 AM

2019-10-10T07:24:25-04:00

Yes. Video games allow for an escape.

Response by PVT Steven Graham made Oct 10 at 2019 7:35 AM

2019-10-10T07:35:38-04:00

They are one of my most use forms of stress and anger management.

Response by SSG Michael Kratz made Oct 10 at 2019 7:42 AM

2019-10-10T07:42:20-04:00

My son is a YouTube gamer and my wife and I support his channel. I did not game until recently and I have found it to be a stress relief! Not to mention some good family time too.

Response by HA Mark Graham made Oct 10 at 2019 7:46 AM

2019-10-10T07:46:13-04:00

Yes, Video games for me is an excellent stress reliever. I suffer from PTSD, TBI, and something really difficult to talk about MST. I look at video games as my stress reliever and it works.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 7:48 AM

2019-10-10T07:48:04-04:00

Not for stress relief, but I do use them to keep my ass from getting bored and wandering off the exercise bike.

Response by SSgt Linda Bradley made Oct 10 at 2019 7:54 AM

2019-10-10T07:54:46-04:00

Yes also helps with pain

Response by PFC Eric Sousa made Oct 10 at 2019 8:10 AM

2019-10-10T08:10:57-04:00

I play WOW, CKII, Cities Skylines and play with my pets. Games have helped me for years.

Response by AN Marie Smith made Oct 10 at 2019 8:11 AM

2019-10-10T08:11:49-04:00

It helps calm me

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 8:14 AM

2019-10-10T08:14:20-04:00

Sometimes they are stress relieving. There are so many games these days it can be hard to find the one that works for you. The market is a bit more saturated than it used to be and dealing with the online community can sometimes make it simply add to your stress level instead.
The most competitive game one with the best community I have personally experienced is Rocket League, League of Legends and World of Warcraft are tied for the worst.
Robocraft can be fun if youlike crafting style games and pvp (build your robot and fight it in arenas)

Response by Cpl John Douglas made Oct 10 at 2019 8:21 AM

2019-10-10T08:21:15-04:00

Creates an outlet

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 8:22 AM

2019-10-10T08:22:19-04:00

They can be stress relieving or stress generating, it really depends on the game type and if it woks to alleviate your stress or not.
I prefer combining workout and gaming: que for a game, do a set of pushups or situps while waiting for competitive modes or a dungeon. Or gaming and family time, que up with my son. We are family gaming on Neverwinter right now.
Another thing is that as long as you have internet gaming can be super cheap and alleviate cost of living stressors. There are so many free to play games out there you can just keep gaming and never run out.
My #1 stress relief is my sport bike personally, if I'm stuck on something, studying and it just is not working, I go for a ride on a back road, some fresh air, wind whipping by and the sounds of nature all work great for me. Get back at what I was doing and I'll be twice as productive. Hiking is right behind the motorcycle.
You have to figure out what relieves your stress.
Also if you go motorcycling get your safety courses done and certs up to date, it is not that hard and will save you a lot of headaches if you get into an accident.
kevlar plate gear for the win.

Response by SSgt Michael Hernando made Oct 10 at 2019 8:27 AM

2019-10-10T08:27:37-04:00

Video games have been a great stress relief and a way to connect to my son. So much so that he is pursuing a degree in video game design to help other veterans and their families.

Response by PFC Bethany Knight made Oct 10 at 2019 8:36 AM

2019-10-10T08:36:47-04:00

I play mostly RPGs and MMO's. It's a really relaxing to be able to immerse myself into another virtual world. Another benefit is the ability to talk to friends regularly no matter where I am in the world through game chats, Discord and otherwise interact with others through the problem solving mechanics of the game. I find the teamwork translated well to my job when I was in the Army.

Response by SSgt Lon Mangan made Oct 10 at 2019 8:38 AM

2019-10-10T08:38:00-04:00

While I would say that physical activity like the gym or practicing martial arts work much better, I have plenty of times now in my civilian life where I don't feel like I can get time for those. Video games have certainly helped me blow off some steam after a stressful day at work or even following a family issue. My go-to games are shooters like Borderlands or Titan Fall, followed by more beat-up-everything types like Dynasty Warriors, Marvel vs. Capcom, Super Smash Ultimate, or even Diablo 3.

In addition, I find playing games can be a good way to keep relaxing when something on my mind is trying to get me all stressed out again. I refer to these as my "zen" games: Bloons Tower Defense, Creeper World, Bejeweled (don't judge), assorted idle-games, etc.

Response by LCpl James Gregg made Oct 10 at 2019 8:40 AM

2019-10-10T08:40:54-04:00

Video games give me an out for any pent up emotions and allow me to exit my headspace for a time. It’s refreshing to let go of the memories for a time to see a new world through the eyes of another. Steam has given me a plethora of other “realities” to escape to when life gets too haunting.

Response by PO3 Daniel Davis made Oct 10 at 2019 8:46 AM

2019-10-10T08:46:19-04:00

Yes! I play WoW (world of warcraft) but now I dont have a computer/laptop to play it. I do miss the escape though.

Response by CW4 Otis Armstrong made Oct 10 at 2019 8:48 AM

2019-10-10T08:48:13-04:00

Yes the games completely occupies my mind allowing me to forget about the stressful things in my life

Response by Cpl Scott Bullard made Oct 10 at 2019 8:54 AM

2019-10-10T08:54:12-04:00

Yes but not the ones that induce violence. (ie: golf, baseball)

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 8:57 AM

2019-10-10T08:57:43-04:00

I use video games for stress relief. Mostly sports games. I rather do that then turn to alcohol or any kind of drugs.

Response by SSG Robert "Rob" Wentworth made Oct 10 at 2019 8:58 AM

2019-10-10T08:58:11-04:00

No, not yet

Response by SN Joe Miller made Oct 10 at 2019 9:14 AM

2019-10-10T09:14:52-04:00

All the tlme its a great way to take out frustration or just decompress from daily nonsense

Response by SPC Richard Jones made Oct 10 at 2019 9:18 AM

2019-10-10T09:18:01-04:00

Never played video games

Response by PVT Peter McKay made Oct 10 at 2019 9:20 AM

2019-10-10T09:20:56-04:00

I have a non-service-connected TBI and extremity trauma from an m/c accident in 4/2016. I spent 4 months with post-concussion blurring from a basal and temporal skull fracture, I could not drive a POV safely. I got back into gaming, specifically racing games, as a way to learn to compensate for the deviation of my left eye and slow responses. After 3 years I am driving safely, and I have gotten back 60% of my fine motor skills loss. I built up a small YouTube following and connected with other veterans for some online racing. I do get stress relief but more importantly, I'm getting back lost coordination.

Response by SSgt Kim Williams made Oct 10 at 2019 9:34 AM

2019-10-10T09:34:50-04:00

I do, but only games like Hidden Objects and puzzles. They for me are relaxing. My TBI was non-military related. It was a 12cm brain tumor.

Response by SPC Anne Bennett made Oct 10 at 2019 9:37 AM

2019-10-10T09:37:27-04:00

Being part of Twitch has provided me much more than stress relief when I play my Zombie Game, it has provided Community.
There's a growing number of Veterans of all branches that are Live Streaming Broadcasters, and the Community around them are very supportive, more mature than most, and helpful when it comes to resources available for Veterans.
I have met many Brothers & Sisters on Twitch, from all branches and Service Dates. There are Charity Organisations that raise Funds from Broadcasters. Livestreaming Platforms are an untapped resource for the Veteran Community.
I'm not going to Self-Advertise like that BigTex guy, that's disrespectful to the thread. But I suggest you look around for the #Veterans in the Twitch Search engine. You can find many of our friends that way.

Response by LCpl Chris Lenard made Oct 10 at 2019 9:43 AM

2019-10-10T09:43:40-04:00

I play video games because sometimes the wife or kids piss me off and I can't kill them so I take it out on the pixels online. Love hearing the squeekers call my name and cry. Is that bad? Because I feel better afterwards.

Response by SGT Roy Lawson made Oct 10 at 2019 9:55 AM

2019-10-10T09:55:10-04:00

Sure have , many many times

Response by SPC Jamie Ryan made Oct 10 at 2019 9:56 AM

2019-10-10T09:56:29-04:00

Sometimes I like to just watch too, like a movie or something, my hands don't always cooperate so its easier to watch, and get everyone laughing, our life is no laughing situation by and large, so games are a big help. I don't like to leave the house unless I have to, so games are my main source of "peopleing". I'm working on it, looking into horse therapy.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 10:03 AM

2019-10-10T10:03:45-04:00

Video games are my go to to decompress. Although frustration leave is high at times, glad game can not talk back.

Response by PO2 James Hartlove made Oct 10 at 2019 10:05 AM

2019-10-10T10:05:44-04:00

yes I do! It helps me forgot the problems that plague me on my day to day. I had to retire because of my disability from the US Navy 98-03

Response by TSgt Kevin Nicholas made Oct 10 at 2019 10:07 AM

2019-10-10T10:07:30-04:00

Yes, when i can carve out time. Gaming is my escape and helps me mitigate stress and anxiety. Open games like Skyrim or even Madden help me focus thoughts and energy differently. Just as other folks here point out....the gym works well too!

Response by CPL Brian Clouser made Oct 10 at 2019 10:08 AM

2019-10-10T10:08:44-04:00

Sure do! The games I play depends on my mood, If I'm really stressed out and about ready to go off the deep in I will play Call of Duty, Assassin Creed or HALO. When I'm mellow I will play Civ 6, DDO and Defiance to name a few.

Response by SSG Juan Parker made Oct 10 at 2019 10:15 AM

2019-10-10T10:15:09-04:00

Yes every day

Response by Cpl George Ramos made Oct 10 at 2019 10:19 AM

2019-10-10T10:19:46-04:00

Video games are for children. Try growing up.

Response by HN Devon Smart made Oct 10 at 2019 10:35 AM

2019-10-10T10:35:14-04:00

I feel bad for those who are unable to do so.

Response by SPC Richard Gamble made Oct 10 at 2019 10:46 AM

2019-10-10T10:46:52-04:00

YES

Response by PO3 Narses Rodriguez made Oct 10 at 2019 10:53 AM

2019-10-10T10:53:05-04:00

Yes

Response by SSgt Chad Dorsey made Oct 10 at 2019 10:54 AM

2019-10-10T10:54:59-04:00

I do it a lot. Borderlands, Halo, Resident Evil and a few others. Iy helps me get rid of negative thoughts.

Response by Sgt Dennis Stevens made Oct 10 at 2019 11:28 AM

2019-10-10T11:28:34-04:00

I use to get great relief from games, started with chess, then video games to computer strategy games. Stopped when they started having to stream them, because being on a fixed income I could not afford the high speed needed. Also the privacy issues always in the back of my mind. Now, I just send the wife away for a week when I get it bad. No reason she should suffer with me or because of me.

Response by SGT Brian Coleman made Oct 10 at 2019 11:36 AM

2019-10-10T11:36:31-04:00

Yes . But the only games that seem to help me has to be military based. Ghost recon. Call of duty ect. Is that weird

Response by A1C Jonathan Smith made Oct 10 at 2019 11:47 AM

2019-10-10T11:47:43-04:00

Definitely. To be honest, video games probably saved my live. I now work developing new IPs for video games and tv/films. They help me escape my anxiety and paranoia.

Response by CPL Janice Strange made Oct 10 at 2019 11:49 AM

2019-10-10T11:49:07-04:00

No never thought of it.

Response by SSgt Anita Heuss made Oct 10 at 2019 11:52 AM

2019-10-10T11:52:08-04:00

My son got me hooked on The Sims years ago. He says it was to keep me (yes Mom wore combat boots) from meddling in his life. I could meddle in simulated peoples lives instead. LOL Of course there is The Sims 4 now. Anyway I was playing The Sims 2 around the time when Katrina hit. I was working as the head cashier at a department store which was part of a national chain in the small city of Mandeville just north of Lake Ponchatrain. We evacuated with our elderly neighbor to the town of Bogolusa, further north to where her sister lived. Unfortunately with Katrina "further north" was not near far enough. The house took a huge tree during the storm. Luckily no one but the house was harmed. After the storm there was no phone, no T.V., sporatic radio information and most of the roads were impassiable. The house was pretty severely damaged so rather than trying to evacuate completely out of the area we chose to go back south to see what state our arpartments were in. They were fine so we went back there. The store I worked at was in walking distance and it was fine also. The whole area was on one of the main electrical lines leading to major hospitals and government complexes so within three weeks we had water & sewer services as well as electricity. The store opened up shortly afterward. I grew up near the hurricane prone Gulf coast so I was used to storms but Katrina was worse than any I had experienced and I was a teen during Camille. What I was not used to was dealing with survivors. Many of my customers had horrific stories to tell and needed to talk so I let them but it took it's toll day after day. I turned to my Sims game. Instead of playing with the little people I built houses. I started with a copy of my neighbor's sister's house and went from there. By then the T.V. stations were back on and we were seeing the damage down in the city first hand. The St. Tammany Parish goverment complex a few miles away was where they were staging a lot of the rescue efforts for down in the city and the helicoptors went right over where I lived and worked hour after hour, day after day. I still cringe everytime I hear a helicoptor go over me. It brings back stories of people who had literally lost everything including friends and relatives but then it also reminds me of building little houses in a computer game and going on from there to taking college courses to learn to design them for real. A computer is a tool and like any other tool it can be used for both good and bad. A computer game is just another tool as well. Your hammer can build a house, break a thumb or kill a person. The difference with computer games and hammers is that computer games are designed with obsolescence in mind. They want you to buy another, and another and another...... If you have ever looked at The Sims games you know how I know this. LOL However in the end they might have cost me quite a bit but they led me somewhere I had now ever thought I would go.

Response by SPC Rachel Davis made Oct 10 at 2019 11:57 AM

2019-10-10T11:57:53-04:00

I do but for me its more of the fantasy type games, Skyrim, Zelda, Red Steel 2. I only recently moved to an area that has high speed internet so solitary offline play has been a staple of my stress relief for years.

Response by SPC Barb Wice made Oct 10 at 2019 12:10 PM

2019-10-10T12:10:04-04:00

Yes they take me away from common everyday stressors

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 12:30 PM

2019-10-10T12:30:55-04:00

Playing video games lets me concentrate on the game and forget every thing for awhile.

Response by SFC James Gillespie made Oct 10 at 2019 12:38 PM

2019-10-10T12:38:50-04:00

When I first came back from Iraq with severe PTSD, I was yelling st my family all the time, like yhay were the reason for everything bad that had happened.
My Doc was the one that told me to play video games, preferably mission based shooters, because they give you clear cut goals and objectives st the beginning of each mission, and upon completing the mission you got that feeling of accomplishment that made you feel good. I don't go online, because the 12 y/o's cussing in my ear have the opposite effect.
I learned to channel all my pain and anger into the game, instead of taking it out on my family.
My wife and I both agree that it is one of the things that helped save our marriage. Now when I'm stressed, she'll tell me to go do my therapy, and I'll go play one mission, and come back in a better mood.

Response by PV2 Eric Drewniak made Oct 10 at 2019 12:42 PM

2019-10-10T12:42:01-04:00

I have ps4 with the VR system and now not only am I getting stress relief I get a little work out too.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 12:43 PM

2019-10-10T12:43:31-04:00

Yes very helpful it keeps my concentration going

Response by Cpl Richard Besser made Oct 10 at 2019 12:55 PM

2019-10-10T12:55:59-04:00

Yep, back injury got worse so no exercise for me. I use PS4 and Nintendo Switch. The game need concentration so you can't think about your problems. Works for me :)

Response by SP5 Tom Hess made Oct 10 at 2019 12:59 PM

2019-10-10T12:59:43-04:00

YES, after surgery for brain aneurysm and two strokes I use video games to work mind and hand coordination. I play building games rather than shoot-em-ups. I am 70!

Response by SPC Lawrence Voelger made Oct 10 at 2019 1:00 PM

2019-10-10T13:00:58-04:00

Yes. Mostly for escapism. I find military games that are photo realistic to be bothersome. But a game that get me to forget and lose myself in it is amazing!

Response by SGT William McMaster made Oct 10 at 2019 1:16 PM

2019-10-10T13:16:57-04:00

I turned video games to relieve stressful emotional times, but I also use video games that support slowing my cognitive degeneration from a TBI sustained in Desert Storm.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 1:22 PM

2019-10-10T13:22:56-04:00

Everyday when I get home I have to play 30 min of Titanfall 2

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 1:23 PM

2019-10-10T13:23:51-04:00

all the time

Response by TSgt John Lynch made Oct 10 at 2019 1:26 PM

2019-10-10T13:26:04-04:00

I like to play a lot of older games to help me calm down. These can be Atari, Nintendo, Super Nintendo, and games from that era. I will play newer games, but that's not the bread and butter for me.

Response by CPO William Czaja made Oct 10 at 2019 1:44 PM

2019-10-10T13:44:18-04:00

Definitely use video games for stress relief.

Response by CPL Lou Collobert made Oct 10 at 2019 1:47 PM

2019-10-10T13:47:50-04:00

Yep, they are a stress relief for me as well.

Response by SSG Bonnie Larson made Oct 10 at 2019 1:52 PM

2019-10-10T13:52:00-04:00

Sure

Response by Cpl Cecil Brown made Oct 10 at 2019 1:57 PM

2019-10-10T13:57:46-04:00

Yep. Bad day at work, go home and kill some terrorists.

Response by PO3 Rodney Burda made Oct 10 at 2019 2:01 PM

2019-10-10T14:01:13-04:00

Yes, I served as a Corpsman from '95 - '03. I would play games sometimes when I had a bad day working in the ER. It really did helped me decompress & forget for a while. I remember a psychiatrist said games were not the answer to my problems even if it was for a short time. Well it helped me in the moment & it was a better solution than other bad habits. Funny how more Veterans are doing the same thing and it helps them a little. We couldn't all just stop & talk about what's going on in the middle of chaos everyday.

Response by SPC Jeffery Moffitt made Oct 10 at 2019 2:10 PM

2019-10-10T14:10:08-04:00

Yes

Response by CPL Kelly Barr made Oct 10 at 2019 2:18 PM

2019-10-10T14:18:54-04:00

Some games can relieve stress. And some can add stress.

Response by Cpl Arthur Genneken made Oct 10 at 2019 2:23 PM

2019-10-10T14:23:31-04:00

No. I was just interested

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 2:26 PM

2019-10-10T14:26:21-04:00

Play all the time. It is my pastime. That's how I deal.

Response by SN Deirdre Plater made Oct 10 at 2019 2:29 PM

2019-10-10T14:29:43-04:00

So how do we retrieve these free games

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 2:37 PM

2019-10-10T14:37:22-04:00

I play more than my share of games (400+ just on steam), even do a bit of streaming from time to time. I find that playing with other vets is the most enjoyable and there are many groups out there to help vets connect to play such as MVG (Military & Veteran Gamers) is a great group if anyone is looking to join up with some vets for a game, or just to smoke and joke. https://discord.gg/military

Join the Military & Veteran Gamers Discord Server!

Check out the Military & Veteran Gamers community on Discord - hang out with 4,670 other members and enjoy free voice and text chat.

Response by SPC Derik Gracey made Oct 10 at 2019 2:50 PM

2019-10-10T14:50:18-04:00

I play resident evil, halo and call of duty to reduced my stress because I suffer from depression and pain where it makes everyday life hard

Response by PO1 Ian Kjos made Oct 10 at 2019 3:47 PM

2019-10-10T15:47:15-04:00

Useta. Now now time. Child will be ready to learn them soon enough.

Response by PV2 James Pittman made Oct 10 at 2019 5:47 PM

2019-10-10T17:47:43-04:00

With my PTSD, video games help redirect my intrusive thoughts.

Response by PO1 Michael Tomkinson made Oct 10 at 2019 5:59 PM

2019-10-10T17:59:09-04:00

yes on my Xbox 360 and my Wii (guitar hero) motion games

Response by PO3 Torrance Little made Oct 10 at 2019 7:10 PM

2019-10-10T19:10:41-04:00

yes, but only Football and Basketball..... used to also use Soccer back in 1994

Response by SN Gitane Rodgers made Oct 10 at 2019 7:17 PM

2019-10-10T19:17:18-04:00

I love video games. I’m an RPG, farming and simulation fan. It’s so nice to get away from reality and get lost in games

Response by Sgt Naomi Hogan made Oct 10 at 2019 8:40 PM

2019-10-10T20:40:54-04:00

I definitely have found value in video games for stress relief. I highly recommend Beat Saber for VR as a way to both blow off some steam and get a bit exercise in the process. I’ve also been playing games like the Persona series that have a very long playtime. It gets you invested in the game plot.

Response by MSgt Marshall Kline made Oct 10 at 2019 8:43 PM

2019-10-10T20:43:39-04:00

Yes I have, and it has helped me alot

Response by SFC Mark Clark made Oct 10 at 2019 9:33 PM

2019-10-10T21:33:16-04:00

At times yes. My main focus is to make friends, and try to make us have a better life if possible through our friendship, trying to overcome any trials and tribulations that get in the way of having peaceful lives.

Response by LCpl Desean Pannell made Oct 10 at 2019 9:48 PM

2019-10-10T21:48:21-04:00

Gta5, borderlands 3 and most of the Tom Clancy games are my go to when I need to decompress.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 10:04 PM

2019-10-10T22:04:20-04:00

Yes I do! Sea of Thieves and Falloul 76 mostly. It also depends on other players. I do not care for player versus player outside of established game modes. Voyages on SoT can be long and tedious, so it really aggravates to lose your loot!

Response by SGT Kendall Rutherford made Oct 10 at 2019 10:09 PM

2019-10-10T22:09:24-04:00

Yes

Response by CW2 Kesha Jones made Oct 10 at 2019 10:39 PM

2019-10-10T22:39:14-04:00

It closes your mind to surrounding issues

Response by PFC Wesley Luttrell made Oct 10 at 2019 10:43 PM

2019-10-10T22:43:05-04:00

I play devil may cry 5 or need for pay back

Response by SrA Richard Yegge made Oct 11 at 2019 2:16 AM

2019-10-11T02:16:26-04:00

Yes I use Gaming to relieve stress, for short term escape

Response by SP5 Joseph Ascanio made Oct 11 at 2019 6:05 AM

2019-10-11T06:05:42-04:00

Yes I went out and got PS$ VR the games I got are great and fun.

Response by PO2 Michael Pompeo made Oct 11 at 2019 7:23 AM

2019-10-11T07:23:10-04:00

King of Avalon Dragon warfare works for me

Response by PO3 Richard Tata made Oct 11 at 2019 8:22 AM

2019-10-11T08:22:41-04:00

Yes, Boredom Relief too

Response by PO1 Charles Deitrick made Oct 11 at 2019 11:01 AM

2019-10-11T11:01:29-04:00

yes and I find that it helps a lot, it keeps me from ripping peoples heads off, I play WOW and when I am really stressed out I go in to my game and start killing all of the bad npc and it really helps

Response by CPL Michael E. R. made Oct 11 at 2019 12:40 PM

2019-10-11T12:40:40-04:00

I pretty much play the above mentioned games on Steam, GoG, Origin,Ubi Gw2,ESO. Atm I am needing to load all that back onto my new baby "Apex Predator" I had a lot of fun building her and modding everything out. which reminds me if anyone needs advice or help with a rig , will be happy to help. also if any are making the leap from windows to linux , I can help
and if any of you gaming studs and studetts are looking to get schooled, if any of you want to get slapped around and totally P'owned by a true gaming master..... until they get here..............Will I do ? *wink*

Response by SPC Alexander Ortiz made Oct 11 at 2019 12:45 PM

2019-10-11T12:45:32-04:00

Hooah

Response by SrA Marcus Frey made Oct 11 at 2019 1:29 PM

2019-10-11T13:29:39-04:00

When I first got Med Boarded and Retired from Air Force, even with a young child, I had to find something to occupy my mind... I am 100% disabled, I had my mind racing and found that MMORPG's allowed some stressors to be relieved... I needed to be doing something. FPS games were too fast paced for my hands to be any good.. (controller made it difficult). RPG's we played on down time in service ( pen and paper type) were a way to still feel a connection and keep those happier times in mind. Sounds weird but, it was something that reminded me of the service since I couldn't do physical activity like I did in service. I played many computer games but eventually they tended to take up Too much of my life... I play a game or two every once in a while but not to the extent I had turned to in the few years after getting out of the Service. I dreamed about having my spine fixed so I could rejoin my Brother's and Sister's on the flight line... it was a sad dream because I would eventually wake up and have to go to my "Escape from Reality" video games... Thankfully no longer, I am too old to go back in the service to continue what I had hoped would be my career. But, I still have a few games to occupy my mind.

Response by SR Thomas Clay made Oct 11 at 2019 3:26 PM

2019-10-11T15:26:14-04:00

I have suffered with not having trust in in those around me, except for my wife.

Response by SSG James Ellison made Oct 11 at 2019 3:57 PM

2019-10-11T15:57:16-04:00

Ohhh. Yeah!! For years now

Response by SGT George Stephens made Oct 11 at 2019 5:05 PM

2019-10-11T17:05:47-04:00

I have and it is one of the most relaxing things i can say i enjoy. Especially games like the Assassin's Creed games and Skyrim or Destiny.

When I am playing with my kids they enjoy Need for Speed or MLB or Fight Night. It's helped me connect with my kids as well especially after being gone for most of their young life.

Response by PVT Joseph Thornton made Oct 11 at 2019 5:29 PM

2019-10-11T17:29:09-04:00

Yes, it help stress a lot. It helps you relax also.

Response by Cpl Tristan Davies made Oct 11 at 2019 5:52 PM

2019-10-11T17:52:38-04:00

Yep, best way to hangout with my buds after we got out or when we changed duty stations

Response by 2ndLt Richard Metheny made Oct 11 at 2019 6:03 PM

2019-10-11T18:03:33-04:00

It good to turn off and enjoy.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2019 6:10 PM

2019-10-11T18:10:48-04:00

Xbox has definitely help me relief stress. Play rb6 siege, vigor, pubg, for Honor, ect. But it helps me get away

Response by SFC James Wear made Oct 11 at 2019 8:07 PM

2019-10-11T20:07:52-04:00

Games do help me release stress. At times it cause flashbacks. It helps on stress more.

Response by CN Gillian Weathers made Oct 11 at 2019 9:54 PM

2019-10-11T21:54:54-04:00

yes

Response by PO1 Edward Fulton made Oct 11 at 2019 11:29 PM

2019-10-11T23:29:49-04:00

Most games are relaxing and allow me to get outta my head for awhile with the exception of Battlefield V that one is so jacked I end up more frustrated then when I started so I'm trying to stay away from it

Response by HN Judi Linebarger made Oct 12 at 2019 12:44 AM

2019-10-12T00:44:12-04:00

Yes. Very rrlaximg

Response by PO1 Doug Dickie made Oct 12 at 2019 4:46 AM

2019-10-12T04:46:48-04:00

Yes

Response by PO3 Jamal Brockington made Oct 12 at 2019 9:59 AM

2019-10-12T09:59:05-04:00

Yes

Response by PO3 Jamal Brockington made Oct 12 at 2019 9:59 AM

2019-10-12T09:59:26-04:00

Is escapism

Response by SP6 Karl Aughe made Oct 12 at 2019 1:12 PM

2019-10-12T13:12:04-04:00

Yes, thay make it better for me to deal with people and problems that happen every day.

Response by CPL John LaVelle made Oct 12 at 2019 6:37 PM

2019-10-12T18:37:46-04:00

Even before I joined I decompressed via video games. Since my time at war, I enjoy facing FPS crisis situations via video games as it brings the critical decision moments back without any one being at risk of damage. Of course this has encouraged me to develop this joke:

I refuse to engage in any PvP activity as once you've done Person vs Person... Player vs Player brings back to many stressful memories.

Response by SSG George Duncan made Oct 12 at 2019 7:50 PM

2019-10-12T19:50:14-04:00

yes just it's only a way to get the energy that you have built up under a life and death time leave it at the game,

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2019 8:44 PM

2019-10-12T20:44:06-04:00

Yes I have but typically I will turn up a bottle of Jack Daniels for stress relief.

Response by PO3 Robert Lamendola made Oct 13 at 2019 12:51 AM

2019-10-13T00:51:45-04:00

yes,yes. rpgs keep my head clear

Response by SP5 Thomas John made Oct 13 at 2019 9:50 AM

2019-10-13T09:50:57-04:00

100%. It lets me escape reality way brtter than drugs and alchohol without the side effects. Minus the occasional "Fu#$in Bul#$%@!"

Response by SPC Jerry Sonheim made Oct 13 at 2019 8:04 PM

2019-10-13T20:04:20-04:00

I do but try to in moderation. It is very easy to get lost in a game. I prefer sports and racing games. It is a fine line with my depression. If I play to long I get mad at myself. I try not to let it interfere with family time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2019 1:06 AM

2019-10-14T01:06:51-04:00

Absolutely. Most days after a hard day at work in garrison, I'll come home and play Skyrim or Total War for an hour or so to unwind. Video games can be hugely therapeutic!

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Bowers made Oct 14 at 2019 9:28 AM

2019-10-14T09:28:14-04:00

YES! More specifically, I have been playing my phone gaming/apps a lot in the last 2 years with the ease of portability and no big need to be deep into a storyline, I play simulation driving and mentally challenging strategy to keep my mind as sharp as I can. Console stuff gets expensive and I hate the thought of wasting my hard-earned cash on something that will "Need" replacing as soon as another better one comes out... What's up with this Steam thing? Is it PC only?

Response by CPL Marvin Landell made Oct 14 at 2019 9:56 AM

2019-10-14T09:56:42-04:00

All the time

Response by SPC David Buchanan made Oct 14 at 2019 11:51 AM

2019-10-14T11:51:30-04:00

Yes it is very helpful

Response by SGT Brandon S. made Oct 16 at 2019 10:43 AM

2019-10-16T10:43:47-04:00

They are the best thing in the world to help calm me down and relax from a bad day.

Response by SGT Michael McGarvey made Oct 16 at 2019 9:42 PM

2019-10-16T21:42:06-04:00

I play games 3-4 days a week to take away the stress OF PTSD

Response by FN Mark Mallos made Oct 17 at 2019 2:00 AM

2019-10-17T02:00:07-04:00

Yes, it allows me to calm down from the day

Response by SPC Efrain Mendez made Oct 18 at 2019 4:43 AM

2019-10-18T04:43:42-04:00

I do is great

Response by Cpl Garry Killen made Oct 18 at 2019 9:15 AM

2019-10-18T09:15:35-04:00

Most definitely good way to relieve stress out of the day. It feels good just to tune everything out for awhile.

Response by WO1 Dan Dobbs made Oct 21 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-10-21T08:19:42-04:00

Yes, I was a part of a study at landstuhl where they gave us xbox's and a huge selection of games. We were told to keep a log of what and when we played. From what I saw, even guys who never played before deployment liked playing the games even as a way to detatch ourselves from the stress of the combat that we had just experienced in real life. I have even noticed a COP that was used in a certain game as a template for a map. It was identical in the game to the real life COP I had just left. Very surreal to see.

Response by PO1 James Everett made Oct 21 at 2019 11:42 PM

2019-10-21T23:42:08-04:00

yes. it is stress relieving and helps me problem solve with a smoother transition without getting so pissed off

Response by SPC Emmanuel Galloza made Oct 22 at 2019 1:41 PM

2019-10-22T13:41:18-04:00

As of this moment im using my old army tactics book for division 2 curious it actually works

Response by SSG Leona Mckendall made Oct 23 at 2019 4:39 AM

2019-10-23T04:39:32-04:00

It helps me relax

Response by PO2 John Magill made Oct 26 at 2019 6:45 AM

2019-10-26T06:45:59-04:00

Yes I can get on Ark (PS4) and spend a hr or so just flying around or building something.

Response by PO2 Wally Chisum made Oct 28 at 2019 10:58 AM

2019-10-28T10:58:09-04:00

I have a PS4 it helps me with stress

Response by SFC Cleveland McCord made Oct 28 at 2019 2:45 PM

2019-10-28T14:45:50-04:00

Response by SFC Cleveland McCord made Oct 28 at 2019 2:46 PM

2019-10-28T14:46:43-04:00

NOI have not

Response by SGT Jenn N Rebel made Nov 5 at 2019 9:40 AM

2019-11-05T09:40:57-05:00

YESSSS! Call of Duty Modern Warfare and Black Ops 4

Response by SFC Pamela Williams made Nov 6 at 2019 11:58 PM

2019-11-06T23:58:58-05:00

What's wrong with you, people have been playing video games since Packman.

Response by Sgt Laura Campbell made Nov 22 at 2019 3:09 PM

2019-11-22T15:09:57-05:00

I play bubble pop for blocking out PTSD triggers and I really like logic/puzzle/search games. I really have to limit my time though or it takes over everything.

Response by AN Brian Mahler made Nov 22 at 2019 8:55 PM

2019-11-22T20:55:26-05:00

Played Farming 2017, Loved it!

Response by SSG Lawrence Herring made Dec 13 at 2019 12:44 PM

2019-12-13T12:44:56-05:00

Yes I do

Response by PO2 Nicholas Krauss made Dec 25 at 2019 9:48 AM

2019-12-25T09:48:17-05:00

I will play video games as a stress relief, although there are times that I constantly fail missions or losing in general that it can be counterproductive.

Response by Amn TeiJae Taylor made Jan 24 at 2020 11:04 PM

2020-01-24T23:04:24-05:00

Yes. I never thought I would use video games to regain my focus and relieve stress but I do. It has helped me with time management and memory. I started with a virtual family game but I had quit when the first family died. (I wasn't checking in on the computer often). I started strategy games that had time structures like Bejeweled 3, Survivor: The Quest, Cadenza and moved into Sniper Fury, Asphalt 8, Asphalt Street Storm, Gods of Rome and Sudoku.

Response by SGT Michael McGarvey made Jan 28 at 2020 3:53 PM

2020-01-28T15:53:59-05:00

Yes I played games for a long time, then started going to Church and found that talking to the Lord Jesus and the Father GOD help me with my PTSD and the dreams I was having HE and my Wife saved my Life. that has been GOOD for the last 30 years

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2020 10:29 PM

2020-02-05T22:29:13-05:00

Yes when things trigger my PTSD & Bipolar games help distract me from going to far down the rabbit hole so to speak.

Response by AB James Hendricks made Feb 27 at 2020 9:04 PM

2020-02-27T21:04:16-05:00

Yes