💡 Post-Game Depression Is Real, Polish Psychologists Have Found

Scientists surveyed 373 gamers to study this phenomenon and developed a special scale to measure it. They describe post-game depression (P-GD) as a feeling of emptiness that occurs after finishing an engaging game.

"P-GD is a specific type of grief after loss, reminiscent of parting with a loved one or the end of an important life stage," explains co-author of the study, Dr. Kamil Janowicz.

✏️ P-GD occurs most often after playing RPGs. This is easy to explain: the player connects emotionally with a character, experiencing their development and the consequences of their decisions alongside them.

✅ Researchers do not consider P-GD to be a separate, serious medical condition. However, they note that the emotions felt after a game can negatively impact the well-being of people prone to depression. Conversely, it may be more intense in those already struggling with depressive states.

Have you ever experienced post-game depression?

❤️ — Yes, it's a familiar feeling...
🔥 — No, never
😎 — I don't play games

@hiaimediaen