Video games are beloved by many, a chance to escape from the world for hours and join a virtual cyberspace. Although these games are adored, are video games a problem?

Video games can be something positive, they give knowledge of computer science, amongst other categories. However, they can also be a distraction from important stuff and disturb sleeping schedules. It also affects the sleep of the students here at Osbourn. The severity of this situation depends on the amount of hours spent on playing videos. Healthy decisions can decrease the chance of disordering sleep. Some people choose to play video games for excessive amounts of time.

Playing video games can disrupt your sleep schedule, the stimulation and bright screens can make it difficult to unwind and fall asleep. “I play video games three times a week. I stay up until about midnight, playing. I can’t fall asleep like I used to, it takes me a longer time. I think limiting my screen time would most definitely help me sleep. I’ve tried, but once you start staying up too late, your body won’t let you sleep,” said sophomore Elijah Beale.

Limiting screen time could help, but sleep also depends on winding down before getting in the bed. That routine can be disconcerting if you’re playing video games right before bed. “I play video games all the time. I’m so attached to video games that it disturbs my sleep. The longest I’ve ever played is four hours. I play before I go to bed sometimes. Limiting my screen time really helps my sleep because when I don’t have anything else to do, I get tired easily,” said junior Lamarcus Everett.

Some people are so absorbed in video games that it doesn’t matter whether or not they’re getting sleep. “I don’t like to sleep, so video games don’t interrupt it. I play as often as possible. When I can, I’ll play about seven hours a day. It’s probably a problem, but I don’t try to fix it,” said sophomore Sebastian Greenwall.

There are a variety of opinions when it comes to the negativity that video games sometimes bring. While some agree that there are issues, and are aware of the problem it may bring on themselves⎯ others believe that it’s no big deal. “I don’t think video games are a problem, as long as you’re getting enough sleep,” said sophomore Amyah Hill.

Other gamers may not have issues themselves but are mindful that it may be one for some. “I play video games for two hours. Video games don’t interrupt my sleep, but it could for others,” said sophomore Dareon Bridges.

There are many strategies for people who struggle with their sleeping habits, which can succeed if they are willing. “I think anything in excessive amounts can interrupt sleep. I play video games on work weeks for about two hours a day and on weekends I play five hours. I don’t have problems, but I think people can have problems with any hobby that they get carried away with. I’ve done that before, but it was nothing that I couldn’t help. I think setting goals is a really helpful strategy. For example, if I’m playing a game that is a story game, I’ll finish one chapter or hit a save point. If I know something will come up that may distract me, I’ll stop right there even if I could play a little longer. Setting secure checkpoints for yourself on when to stop can will really be helpful,” said eSports Coach, Michael Edwards.

Distractions, as opposed to sleep, are similar but different in spontaneous ways. While both can alter our state of consciousness, distractions tend to pull us away from focus and productivity. It also affects social interactions, detracting from meaningful connections with others. “People need to get off screens and speak to each other,” said freshman Hasheem Jacobs.

While gaming is a fun hobby that allows for exploration, creativity, and connection with others, it’s important to recognize the potential impact it can have on your sleep schedule. It’s important to limit online activity to reduce the chances of being negatively affected by them.  Setting boundaries and finding relaxing alternatives can help you sleep better and stay healthy.

There isn’t a problem with enjoying video games, there are always positives somewhere in the mix. But always be sure that you’re exercising healthy practices when it comes to screen time, and if you feel that you’re having problems with your sleep, don’t be afraid to practice new strategies to improve your schedule.

Let us know your experiences in the comments!