Leveling Up: The Psychology of Gaming and Its Role in Mental Health

Gaming culture—whether it unfolds through the epic campaigns of tabletop role-playing games or the immersive landscapes of video games—offers more than entertainment. It provides a unique lens into human psychology, identity, and community. This panel brings together mental health professionals, game designers, and lifelong players to explore the powerful connections between gaming and mental well-being.

We will examine how gaming culture has evolved into a space for self-expression, teamwork, and resilience. Tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons allow participants to safely explore identity, practice empathy, and develop social problem-solving skills. Video games, ranging from story-driven narratives to cooperative multiplayer experiences, provide players with opportunities to master challenges, build confidence, and form meaningful social bonds across distances. Both forms of gaming harness elements of choice, consequence, and narrative that mirror the therapeutic process.

Beyond the cultural and psychological aspects, this panel will highlight growing research and clinical applications of games in mental health. Studies show that video games can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood regulation, and even assist with trauma processing. Role-playing games have been successfully integrated into group therapy and social-skills training, particularly for individuals navigating challenges such as autism, social anxiety, and substance use recovery. We’ll also discuss gamification in evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy apps and virtual reality platforms that transform treatment into engaging, accessible experiences.

Audience members will leave with:

    •    A deeper understanding of the psychology behind why gaming resonates so strongly across diverse populations.

    •    Practical insights into how games can be used to foster community, resilience, and coping skills.

    •    Real-world examples of how gaming is being applied in mental health interventions, from clinical settings to grassroots peer-support groups.

    •    A new appreciation for the cultural value of games as tools for healing, connection, and personal growth.

Whether you’re a gamer curious about the deeper impact of your favorite pastime, a clinician looking for innovative approaches, or a convention-goer simply interested in the culture, this session will show how gaming—digital or tabletop—can truly help us level up in life.

Jairon Jones holds a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (December 2023) from Purdue University Global, with a major in Applied Behavior Analysis. Master of Science in Psychology (December 2021) from the same institution.