New Survey: U.S. Veterans Say Video Games Support Mental Health and Well-Being

Key insights

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Key finding

Most U.S. veterans report that video games have a positive impact on their lives.

77% of veteran respondents believe video games positively affect their lives.

During service

Video games helped veterans relax, escape stressors, and boost morale during military service.

85% of veterans noted that games helped them relax and escape the stressors of their duties. 78% indicated that gaming boosted morale and strengthened camaraderie.

Like a short mental break during a busy day, gaming offered a temporary escape from military pressures.

85%

of veterans used video games to relax and escape stressors during military service.

found gaming boosted morale and camaraderie: 78%
found gaming an effective method for fostering teamwork: 73%

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Summary

A recent survey conducted by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) examines the role of video games in the lives of U.S. veterans, concluding that gaming serves as a significant tool for mental health support, stress relief, and social connection. The research highlights that 77% of veteran respondents believe video games have a positive impact on their lives. Specifically, 86% of participants identify gaming as a healthy outlet for managing stress and anxiety, while 81% use it to cope with difficult life circumstances. Furthermore, 77% of veterans utilize gaming to maintain social connections, and 74% report that gaming communities contribute positively to their emotional well-being.

The findings also reflect on the utility of gaming during military service, with 85% of veterans noting that games helped them relax and escape the stressors of their duties. Additionally, 78% of respondents indicated that gaming boosted morale and strengthened camaraderie, while 73% found it an effective method for fostering teamwork. The average veteran gamer in the study is a 37-year-old male, typically employed full-time with a college education, who prefers console gaming and action-shooter titles.

The study was conducted by YouGov between January 14 and January 27, 2025, and utilized an online survey methodology. The sample included 1,096 veteran video gamers and 508 non-veteran video gamers, all aged between 22 and 50. By focusing on this demographic, the research underscores the broader therapeutic potential of interactive entertainment beyond traditional leisure, positioning video games as a valuable resource for those who have served in the military.