It is undeniable that during the Covid-19 pandemic, when everyone had to stay at home and could not meet others, it may lead to mental health issues. The medical community has warned about this, stating that prolonged isolation from others can lead to what is known as social loneliness or feelings of loneliness. Social loneliness occurs when individuals feel disconnected from their network of friends, acquaintances, and colleagues, which can lead to various mental health problems and may even result in symptoms of depression.

The Dangers of Loneliness
          A study titled ‘Loneliness and Social Isolation as Risk Factors for Mortality’ by researchers at Brigham Young University in the United States indicates that individuals who feel lonely and isolated have a 20% higher risk of death (compared to a 21% increased risk from depression and anxiety). It is also linked to heart disease and high blood pressure, while individuals with no social interaction face a 26% increased risk of death.

          This aligns with what Steve Cole, a genetic researcher at UCLA, stated: “Social abandonment is one of the most severe social risk factors.” Additionally, psychologist John Cacioppo from the University of Chicago, who co-researched, noted that “the level of danger from loneliness is shocking.”

          Don Forsyth, a social and personality psychologist at the University of Richmond, mentioned that social loneliness can be alleviated by connecting with others through various channels, such as writing letters or emails to old friends, which can help reduce some negative impacts of being alone.

  However, in such situations, simply writing letters or communicating via email may not be the best solution 

So what methods can address this problem while aligning with modern lifestyles?

          Currently, there is a trend that is being widely discussed in America and many places around the world as a solution to feelings of loneliness. It serves as a gathering place for many people to exchange information and engage in activities together without physical contact or proximity, eliminating the risk of contracting the Covid-19 virus, which is the gaming community.


Video games have always been a source of solace in tough times
said gamer "Nekkra" Kelley.

          Don Forsyth further stated that various forms of gaming, especially multiplayer games, enhance social presence and the ability to share screens and interact with characters. This can create a sense of togetherness and presence, making you feel less distant from others, fulfilling the need for connection during isolation.

SOURCE : Don Forsyth


          An example of a popular game during this time is the recent launch of "Call of Duty: Warzone", which offers free online play and was released on March 10 across PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Within the first 24 hours, over 6 million players engaged with this game.

SOURCE : twitter.com/callofduty

 

          Another example is Steam, the largest video game distribution service for PC gaming, which set an all-time record on March 15 with nearly 20 million users online simultaneously.

          On March 28, the World Health Organization announced its collaboration with major gaming companies to launch PlayApartTogether, a campaign that brings together games promoting social engagement and good hygiene practices for players to cope with the isolation during Covid-19.

SOURCE : venturebeat.com


          It is evident that in such situations, gaming may serve as a way to alleviate boredom for many and provide a means to connect with a large number of people to address social loneliness, making the Covid-19 virus feel less frightening and isolating. Terrabkk wishes to encourage everyone, and we will get through this situation together.

Source of information: themomentum.com  , www.usatoday.com