Ben Dover :
Playing video games is generally better for your mental health than watching Fox News, especially if you’re comparing recreational gaming with several hours of political news consumption.
However, the benefits depend on what games you’re playing, how long you’re playing, and how the news affects you. What does research suggest?
1. Political news and mental health
Research has associated frequent exposure to stressful political news with:
* Increased anxiety and emotional exhaustion.
* Greater frustration and anger.
* Increased stress about events outside one’s control.
* Difficulty disconnecting from political disagreements.
These effects aren’t unique to Fox News. CNN, MSNBC, and other politically focused news outlets can produce similar effects.
2. Video games and mental health
Research suggests recreational gaming can provide:
* Stress relief and relaxation.
* Improved mood.
* A sense of accomplishment.
* Social connection through multiplayer games.
* Cognitive stimulation and problem-solving.
However, excessive gaming can interfere with sleep, exercise, relationships, and responsibilities.
My recommendation
If you’re choosing between two hours of Fox News and two hours of Xbox, I’d generally recommend the Xbox for relaxation and stress relief.
For example, playing a campaign game like Call of Duty can provide entertainment, mental stimulation, and a temporary break from everyday stress.
Watching two hours of politically charged news may leave you feeling frustrated about problems you have little ability to change.
Bottom line: For someone trying to reduce stress and improve their mood, moderate recreational gaming is generally the better choice. But there’s no strong scientific evidence establishing that gaming is specifically healthier than watching Fox News.
One question: Are you comparing someone who watches Fox News for 4–6 hours daily with someone who plays Xbox for 4–6 hours daily? That would make for a more interesting comparison.
2026-10-29 20:17:44