Firstly, poker is a game of strategy and decision-making, which can provide a sense of control and empowerment to players. Secondly, playing poker can help improve mental clarity and cognition, as it requires concentration and focus.

Individuals might try to avoid behaviorally expressing their emotions or showing their sad feelings. This phenomenon is called expressive suppression (i.e. suppression) and refers to a so-called 'poker face'. It is a behavioral strategy to regulate emotional responses after they have arisen.