Why My RPG Habit Makes Me a Better Social Worker

 Welcome back! After talking about music and listening for a while, I wanted to talk about my other favorite form of escape: gaming. In particular, the kind of character-driven, strategic, and in-depth role-playing games (RPGs) that have the potential to consume your entire weekend. 

My time spent playing Genshin Impact may seem pointless, but it's actually helping my brain get ready to tackle the most difficult problems that come with being a medical social worker. 

I use video games to practice the following three crucial skills:  

1. Management of Resources   

You begin with a small amount of money, some basic equipment, and a few health potions, as is the case with all good role-playing games. You must manage your best items for the long term; you cannot use them immediately. 

The biggest resource management challenge is social work in general. In addition to solving every issue, my role also involves making sure that a client's most important needs—such as access to medication, stable housing, etc.—are adequately met, as well as time management, agency support, and community resources. My ability to see the big picture and resist the temptation to "heal" small problems before addressing systemic ones has improved thanks to gaming.  

2. Handling Complicated Conversation Trees (Communication Technique)  

The decisions you make in role-playing games can affect how you interact with characters and, in certain situations, how the game turns out. You risk losing an important ally if you say something incorrectly. 

Every encounter is a high-stakes dialogue tree for a medical social worker. I frequently have to make difficult word choices under pressure in order to:  

1. Develop a relationship with a client who is hesitant.  
2. Make concessions to overburdened family members.  
3. Effectively communicate with busy doctors.  

The idea that the only way to succeed is to listen before choosing an option is reinforced by these games.  

3. The Benefits of the Side Quest (Appreciating the Full Person)  

In a game, the main quest is the main objective, but the side quests are where you get bonus items, rich lore, and a deeper understanding of the world and its people. 

The immediate medical discharge plan is typically the "main quest" in the hospital. However, it is my responsibility to find the "side quests"—the client's worries regarding their dog, their employment, or their social isolation. When they go home, these seemingly insignificant details are frequently the crucial elements that decide whether the main plan works or not. I've come to appreciate not just the critical path but the entire picture.  

Video games are a testing ground for resiliency and strategic thinking, not just a diversion.  

Which game has given you a surprising professional or life lesson? Share your thoughts in the comments section.