Yes, it can help reduce the urge to masturbate, but only if used strategically. Here’s how and why it works, and where it can backfire:
Why Video Games Can Help
1. Distraction & Focus
Games occupy your hands, eyes, and mind — which leaves less space for sexual thoughts.
2. Dopamine Replacement
Masturbation gives a dopamine rush. So do games (especially competitive or rewarding ones), which can replace that need in a healthier way.
3. Structured Time
Gaming can help fill idle hours — especially at night, when urges are often strongest.
4. Social Interaction
Online games with friends or teams reduce loneliness, which is often a major trigger for sexual urges.
⚠️ But Be Careful…
1. Not All Games Help
Avoid overly sexualized games or characters — these can trigger urges, not reduce them.
Fast, intense games (like Call of Duty, FIFA, Fortnite) are better than story-heavy RPGs with romance or nudity.
2. Avoid Gaming Addiction
Replacing one compulsion (masturbation) with another (excessive gaming) isn’t healthy.
Stick to set gaming hours (e.g. 1–2 hours max) as part of a balanced routine.
3. Don’t Game in Bed
Create boundaries. Gaming in bed can make it easier to slide into old habits afterward.
Game at a desk, then shut down electronics before sleep.
How to Use Gaming Effectively
Use gaming as a reward after completing tasks or resisting urges.
Play with others to make it more social and less isolated.
When an urge hits, grab the controller, not your phone — redirect the moment.
Bonus Tip: Pair Gaming with Other Habits
– Combine gaming with other urge-beating tools:
– Cold shower after gaming.
– Workout before starting a match.
– Journal wins (both in-game and personal self-control).
Bottom line:
Yes, video games can reduce sexual urges, but they’re most effective as part of a bigger plan with structure, purpose, and balance.
– Deeprows gist