Does playing Tetris help with trauma?

Does Playing Tetris Help with Trauma?

Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s life, leaving them with emotional scars that can be difficult to heal from. While traditional therapy and support groups can be effective in helping individuals process their trauma, researchers have been exploring alternative methods for trauma recovery. One such method is playing Tetris, a popular puzzle game that has been shown to have a positive impact on individuals who have experienced trauma.

The Science Behind Tetris and Trauma

In 2010, researchers at the University of Cambridge conducted a study to investigate the effects of playing Tetris on individuals who had experienced trauma. The study found that playing Tetris directly after a traumatic event can reduce the occurrence of intrusive memories of the event. This is because Tetris engages the brain’s attention and memory systems, making it more difficult for traumatic memories to be consolidated.

How Tetris Works

So, how exactly does Tetris help with trauma? The game’s ability to engage the brain’s attention and memory systems is key. When a person plays Tetris, they are required to focus their attention on the game and make quick decisions to clear lines. This demands intense cognitive processing, which can help to distract from traumatic thoughts and emotions.

Benefits of Playing Tetris

Playing Tetris has been shown to have several benefits for individuals who have experienced trauma. Some of these benefits include:

• Reduced symptoms of PTSD: Studies have found that playing Tetris can reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including intrusive memories and avoidance behaviors.
• Improved cognitive functioning: Tetris has been shown to improve cognitive functioning in individuals who have experienced trauma, including attention and memory.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Playing Tetris can be a calming and relaxing activity, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

How to Use Tetris for Trauma Recovery

If you are considering using Tetris as a tool for trauma recovery, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Start with short sessions: Begin with short sessions of 10-15 minutes and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the game.
• Focus on clearing lines: The goal of the game is to clear lines by creating solid rows of blocks. Focus on clearing lines to distract from traumatic thoughts and emotions.
• Practice regularly: Consistency is key when it comes to using Tetris for trauma recovery. Practice regularly to see the most benefits.

Alternatives to Tetris

While Tetris can be an effective tool for trauma recovery, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some alternatives to Tetris include:

• Other puzzle games: Games like Sudoku, crosswords, and brain teasers can provide a similar cognitive challenge to Tetris.
• Coloring and drawing: Activities like coloring and drawing can be calming and relaxing, and can provide a creative outlet for emotions.
• Mindfulness and meditation: Mindfulness and meditation practices can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and can be a useful addition to trauma recovery.

Conclusion

Playing Tetris can be a useful tool for trauma recovery, offering a range of benefits including reduced symptoms of PTSD, improved cognitive functioning, and reduced stress and anxiety. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it can be a valuable addition to traditional therapy and support groups. By understanding how Tetris works and how to use it effectively, individuals can harness its power to help them heal from trauma.