Published by OnlineCasino.ca
Everyone meet Michael, a visual representation of the future gamer.
We at OnlineCasino.ca conducted a study and predicted how avid gamers could look in the next 20 years if they didn't change their lifestyle habits. From sleep deprivation and dehydration, to lack of vitamin D, digital eye strain and 'playstation thumb' - these are just some of the physical implications of spending hours online, in a gaming chair, away from sunlight and physical activity. So how serious is this?
We reveal Michael, the future gamer of 2040.
According to Limelight, the average gamer spends 6 hours each week playing online video games which is an increase of 19.3% in the last year. Gamers in the UK play the most (7.15 hours per week) with many even becoming addicts and spending up to 18 hours a day online.
Video game 'addiction' is now recognized as an official psychological disorder by WHO (World Health Organization), and referred to 'gaming disorder' - despite opposition from the industry and academics.
According to the World Health Organization, 'gaming disorder' will be distinguished by "impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities, and continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences".
With this being recognized as a worldwide issue, and gaming hours on the rise - just what impact does this have on our physical appearance and health?
We conducted in-depth research into every physical impact on the body and health of a human being from spending too much time indoors and online. And here is what we found out...
Online gaming might be better for ease of access, choice of games and privacy but if you don't pay attention to your lifestyle, the future gamer could be your future. By being mindful of your posture, your intake and screen time, you can create a more balanced lifestyle that can counteract those gaming hours.
The recognition of 'gaming disorders' has led to the NHS' launching a long term plan for the UK's National Centre for Gaming Disorders. The plan designed to combat 'gaming disorder' is headed up by Professor Henrietta Bowden-Jones, who revealed the constantly 'on' environment in gaming means that games easily becomes addictive, with players feeling the pressure not to let their teammates down by exiting the game, especially in a global digital world with no switch-off time. When paired with decision making based on rewards systems, this leads to high levels of impulsivity. Add in the dopamine hits related to short term wins and this means that gamers are constantly searching for the next victory or rush. But does everything come down to the game?
Clinical psychologist Rebecca Lockwood from the National Centre for Gaming Disorders touches on the mental health aspects and the allure of gaming, saying "I think there's a lot of social anxiety in young people who are gaming. Gaming is a safe space; you can create a new identity for yourself." Suggesting psychological problems like anxiety and depression exist prior to the addiction and that gaming allows people to escape from this, by creating an identity or connecting to similar people online. But it can also leave them susceptible to addiction and trigger those pre-existing conditions.
The gaming industry strongly opposed the recognition of 'gaming addiction' from the World Health Organization, arguing this could overshadow underlying issues such as anxiety or depression.
Making sure you take time to get up, stretch and exercise will warm up your muscles, keep your joints lubricated and reduce the amount of pain in hunched shoulders, stiff muscles and help tackle obesity.
Avoid glare from your screen by evenly lighting the room, remember to blink and also rest your eyes by taking breaks in between games.
Eating a poor diet can lead to malnourishment and reduce your mental and physical health. Not only should you eat a balanced diet for your health but it will also support your in-game performance by helping decision making, concentration and energy levels.
Save yourself from that horrible hunch by reminding yourself to sit properly and stretch. Not only will this help with short term aches and pains it will protect you from the future gamer hunchback and rounded shoulders. The best tip here is to invest in a decent chair, make sure your monitor is at eye level and regular stretching and movement.
Gamers are drawn to soft and energy drinks but do not forget about the importance of H2O! This is because as our body loses water we lose energy to it is important to stay hydrated. If not only for energy but for your health too!