U.S. Veterans Say Playing Video Games Has a Positive Impact on Their Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Video games serve as a significant tool for mental health and social connectivity among U.S. veterans, providing a structured outlet for stress relief and emotional regulation. Research indicates that 74% of veterans believe gaming has a positive impact on their overall well-being, with 86% identifying the medium as a healthy mechanism for managing stress. Beyond individual benefits, gaming functions as a vital social bridge, as 79% of veteran gamers engage in multiplayer experiences at least weekly to maintain camaraderie with fellow service members and stay connected with family.

The demographic profile of the average veteran gamer is a 37-year-old male who is college-educated, employed full-time, and typically married with children. These individuals often utilize gaming to navigate the transition to civilian life, with 77% reporting that the hobby continues to have a positive influence post-service. During their active duty years, these veterans relied on gaming to boost morale, strengthen unit cohesion, and provide a necessary escape from the high-pressure environment of military service.

Data for these findings were collected through an online survey conducted by YouGov between January 14 and January 27, 2025, involving a sample of 1,096 veteran video gamers and 508 non-veteran counterparts aged 22 to 50. Participants show a strong preference for console gaming at 74%, followed by PC and smartphone usage. Action shooters remain the most popular genre, followed by role-playing games and sports titles. These preferences highlight a consistent engagement with interactive entertainment as a primary method for relaxation, social interaction, and emotional maintenance within the veteran community.