�鶹Լ��

�鶹Լ�� Teach > Primary Resources > Online safety > Managing online information

Top tips for each gaming type

We all have similar emotions when gaming but each of us tend to react to those emotions differently. Whether the quiz revealed you’re a gamer for fun, a gamer first or a peacekeeper, you probably have features of each personality.

We’ve spoken with Dr. Aaron Balick to give us some top tips on how to deal with the challenging emotions that can come up while gaming online.

“Firstly, we should keep in mind that video games should be fun, challenging and a way to de-stress after a long day. So, when you are not enjoying the game or you find something unpleasant it’s a good idea to stop for a second and try to understand why you’re feeling upset,” he explains.

By pausing every once in a while, you can try and notice what feelings come up – and take a break if they are getting you down. If those emotions are confusing, or you don’t understand what to do with them, talking them over with a trusted adult can help.

Press pause, check your feelings, and consider others

If you’ve found you are a “Gamer first”, the most important thing is putting your games in perspective and setting some healthy boundaries – when you play, how long do you play for? We know it’s hard to stop playing but taking some regular breaks can help you feel less nervous. “You are a very skilled player,” says Dr. Aaron. “So why don’t you use your expertise to build up those around you and be a respectful and helpful mentor?”.

Open up and work it out

If you feel more like a peacekeeper, you might put some of your own needs aside for others. It’s great to be considerate of your friends, but don’t forget to believe in yourself too. “Games are an opportunity to develop your skills, not a measure of how good you are. The best thing you could do for yourself is to find a way to express your needs – there is always someone to talk to if you feel stuck,” adds Dr. Aaron.

A game’s a game

Lastly, if you are a gamer for fun, this means you really see a game as a game and don’t get too hung up on what happens there. If you really want to up your game, Dr. Aaron suggests supporting others who might be struggling by giving them playing tips and moral support. Try not to be a bystander – you can become a model of good behaviour in the game by not tolerating nastiness and bullying.

Dr Aaron Balick is a psychotherapist, who helps people with their psychological and emotional wellbeing.

If you're worried about anything you see while gaming, your own behaviour or the behaviour of other gamers, then you can speak to a trusted adult.

If someone in a game is acting in a way that upsets you, remember that you can block them and report their actions.

And if you need urgent help and aren't sure who to turn to, you can contact

More on: Managing online information