USING ESPORTS AS A MEANS OF STRESS RELIEF FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL

Abstract

Esports, as an innovative form of organized activity in the modern digital environment, is becoming an effective means of psychological and emotional support and rehabilitation. This is especially relevant for military personnel who are under high levels of stress related to the nature of their service and combat experience. In this context, esports is viewed as a tool with the potential to enhance cognitive functions, reduce stress levels, and promote motivation The aim of the study is to determine the possibility of using esports as a method of psychophysiological rehabilitation and stress management for military personnel.  The methodology included a theoretical analysis and generalization of data from specialized scientific literature, and from official websites of organizations, as well as empirical data and practical approaches in esports and military psychology. The results of the study demonstrate that different genres and formats of esports activities can have a complex effect on the emotional state, cognitive processes, motivation, social support, and self-regulation of military personnel. In particular, the use of relaxing games, strategies, cooperative modes, achievement systems, and gamified training helps reduce stress, develop thinking speed, improve decision-making, and reduce social isolation. Conclusions. The prospects for integrating esports into rehabilitation programs for military personnel have been confirmed. The introduction of esports as a comprehensive tool for overcoming stress can contribute to improving the quality of life, operational readiness, and social integration of military personnel, expanding the scope of application of modern technologies in medical and social practice.