What games reduce trauma?

What Games Reduce Trauma?

Trauma is a distressing and emotional experience that can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. While there is no cure for trauma, research has shown that playing certain games can help reduce the symptoms and impact of traumatic experiences. In this article, we will explore what games can reduce trauma and how they can be used as a therapeutic tool.

Tetris: The Trauma-Reducing Game

One of the most well-known studies on games and trauma reduction is the research on Tetris. A study published in 2015 found that playing Tetris within 24 hours of experiencing a traumatic event reduced the formation of intrusive memories by 32%. Intrusive memories are memories that are distressing and difficult to process, and they are a common symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The study’s lead author, Dr. Emily Holmes, explained that Tetris was chosen because it is a simple and engaging game that requires the player to focus on the present moment, rather than dwelling on past traumatic experiences. Mindfulness, the practice of being present in the moment, is a key component of trauma reduction, and Tetris provides a healthy distraction from traumatic thoughts.

Other Games that Reduce Trauma

While Tetris may be the most well-known game for reducing trauma, other games can also have a positive impact. Some examples include:

• Video games with a calming effect: Games like Minecraft, The Sims, and Animal Crossing are designed to be calming and relaxing, making them ideal for individuals who are struggling with anxiety or stress related to trauma.
• Games with a sense of control: Games like Puzzle & Dragons, Plants vs. Zombies, and Solitaire provide a sense of control and agency, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who feel helpless or powerless in the face of trauma.
• Games with a social element: Games like Overwatch, League of Legends, and Fortnite provide a social outlet, which can help individuals who are struggling with social isolation or loneliness.

How Games Can Reduce Trauma

Games can reduce trauma in several ways, including:

• Providing a healthy distraction: Games can provide a healthy distraction from traumatic thoughts and memories, allowing individuals to focus on the present moment.
• Reducing stress and anxiety: Games can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing a sense of relaxation and calm.
• Improving mood: Games can improve mood by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters.
• Providing a sense of control: Games can provide a sense of control and agency, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who feel helpless or powerless in the face of trauma.

Conclusion

While trauma is a serious and debilitating condition, games can be a valuable tool in reducing its impact. By providing a healthy distraction, reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and providing a sense of control, games can help individuals who have experienced trauma to heal and recover. As research continues to uncover the benefits of games for trauma reduction, it is clear that they will play an increasingly important role in mental health treatment.

Recommended Games for Trauma Reduction

Recommended Resources

• The National Center for PTSD: A government-run organization that provides information and resources on PTSD and trauma.
• The Anxiety and Depression Association of America: A non-profit organization that provides information and resources on anxiety and depression.
• The Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute: A non-profit organization that provides information and resources on trauma and PTSD.