I learned that the hard way. I may have felt temporarily better both during and after playing, but my depression didn’t just stop once I powered off my controller. My feelings of worthlessness and suicidality didn’t go *poof* just because I played The Sims for a bajillion hours straight. No, I needed professional health — and yes, I eventually got it. Cardona recommends finding a therapist who offers free or reduced-price services or attending group therapy sessions as they’re often cheaper. “Improved sleep and regular exercise are truly gamechangers when it comes to mental health, and while very difficult, they can be the most affordable means to improve mental health,” he adds.
