Why does Tetris help with trauma?

Why Does Tetris Help with Trauma?

Tetris, a classic puzzle game, has been found to have a surprising benefit: reducing the impact of trauma. But how does a seemingly simple game like Tetris achieve this? In recent years, researchers have begun to uncover the mechanisms behind Tetris’s therapeutic effects. In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind why Tetris helps with trauma.

Intrusive Memories: The Root of Trauma

Trauma can result in the formation of intrusive memories, or flashbacks, which are involuntary and distressing experiences that relive the traumatic event. These memories can be debilitating, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Repetition Compulsion, a psychological theory, suggests that people engage in repetitive behaviors to ward off the discomfort of unwanted memories.

Tetris as a Therapeutic Tool

Enter Tetris, a game that requires visual attention and working memory, which are essential cognitive skills for reducing intrusive memories. When we play Tetris, our brains are absorbed in the game, occupying our working memory and inhibiting the recall of traumatic memories. This cognitive distraction helps to weaken the neural pathways associated with the traumatic event, making it less likely to be remembered.

The Science of Tetris and Trauma

Research has shown that playing Tetris within 24 hours of a traumatic event can reduce symptoms of PTSD by a significant margin. A 2013 study published in the journal Nature Neuroscience found that participants who played Tetris after witnessing a traumatic video experienced reduced symptoms of PTSD compared to those who did not play the game.

Benefits of Tetris for Trauma Sufferers

The benefits of Tetris for trauma sufferers are twofold:

• Reduces intrusive memories: By occupying the working memory and providing cognitive distraction, Tetris helps to decrease the frequency and intensity of traumatic memories.
• Lessens symptoms of PTSD: The reduced symptoms of PTSD are a direct result of the decreased intrusive memories.

How Tetris May Help with Trauma Symptoms

Here are some potential ways Tetris may alleviate trauma symptoms:

• Distracts from unpleasant thoughts: Tetris serves as a healthy distraction from distressing memories, giving the brain a break from rumination.
• Provides a sense of accomplishment: Mastering Tetris levels can give individuals a sense of accomplishment, building confidence and self-esteem.
• Enhances mood: The game’s simple, repetitive nature can promote relaxation and reduce stress.
• Fosters social connections: Playing Tetris with others can encourage social interaction, combating the isolation often associated with PTSD.

Conclusion

While Tetris may seem like an unlikely tool for healing trauma, the science speaks for itself. By distracting the brain from traumatic memories and providing a sense of accomplishment, Tetris may offer a new avenue for treating PTSD and reducing trauma symptoms. As researchers continue to explore the therapeutic effects of Tetris, this game may become a vital component in the treatment of trauma.