The Impact of Video Games and Social Media on Mental Health
Growing up, I often felt that spending just an hour a week playing Space Invaders was somewhat of a guilty pleasure. I knew, deep down, that going outside to play baseball or basketball was, well, way better for me. Over time, I managed to curb that early obsession. But when I look at today’s gaming landscape, combined with the vastness of the internet and social media, it feels altogether different—almost like a banquet that’s too rich to digest. It’s as if these platforms are addictive, not just in a trivial sense but also potentially harmful to our mental and physical well-being.
Take the tragic story of Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old involved in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. We don’t know precisely how much video games and social media contributed to his deteriorating mental state, but it’s clear he was immersed in that environment.
The shocking incident from last week serves as a reminder of how often we may underplay the influence of social media and violent video games, like Helldivers 2, which ironically won an award despite its satirical take on a fascist empire. Disturbingly, there were references to the game found in writings on Robinson’s weapon.
Concerns from Charlie Kirk’s Family
According to relatives, Kirk expressed concerns about his assassin, saying there was “a problem” before he was ultimately asked to leave.
Alyssa Finley recently wrote in the Wall Street Journal an insightful piece titled “Tyler Robinson and the Lost Boys of America.” She noted that being online isn’t doing young men any favors. Sure, they might defeat bad guys in video games, but they often become lost in a digital world that stunts their capacity for real social engagement and ethical growth.
Furthermore, back in March 2025, the FBI issued a warning about a troubling rise in exploitative online threats targeting young people via social media and gaming platforms. It identified how these harmful groups prey on vulnerable individuals, often exacerbating mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Research backs up these observations. Adolescents logging more than three hours on social media daily face double the risk of developing anxiety or depression. It’s concerning, to say the least.
The Danger of Dehumanization
Douglas Murray has pointed out an unsettling trend: those who cheer for acts of violence, like Robinson’s actions, reveal a dangerous “dehumanization” of perceived adversaries.
Studies consistently show that heavy social media users among children and teens often feel worse about themselves. It seems the online realm isn’t just a distraction; it has mutated and saturated the social experience of growing youths.
Preventive Measures
While there might be little parents can do once their children reach adulthood, there’s a window of opportunity in their formative years. We experienced a wake-up call last year when another tragic case emerged—27-year-old Luigi Mangione was charged with murdering the CEO of UnitedHealthcare.
Clearly, we need to reevaluate how we manage social media and video game engagement. Parents should lead by example, setting limits on screen time and involvement in these platforms.
Family meals can become an opportunity for open discussions about difficult topics, such as what happened to Kirk. But more than that, they should emphasize positive emotions—like empathy, courage, and compassion. Such conversations can be a pathway for healing and unity, particularly after a deeply unsettling event like this. After all, division and political attacks only amplify the problem.
Social media and gaming can often magnify our worst tendencies. Yet, we have the ability to foster the best qualities in our children, beyond the avatars they might cling to.
