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In a groundbreaking study published in BMC Medicine, researchers from Uppsala University in Sweden have uncovered a novel method for alleviating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using video games. The study provides compelling evidence that a single session of guided gameplay can significantly reduce the frequency of intrusive memories, a core symptom of PTSD.
PTSD, a condition that affects millions worldwide, is characterized by recurrent and unwanted memories or flashbacks of traumatic events, often accompanied by severe anxiety, nightmares, and difficulty concentrating. While traditional therapies and medications are available, researchers have been exploring alternative and accessible ways to address the disorder.
In this study, 164 participants who experienced trauma were monitored over a week. Half of them were asked to play the video game Tetris, known for its reliance on spatial reasoning and “mental rotation” — the ability to visualize an object from different angles. The control group, in contrast, was asked to listen to the radio.
Emily Holmes, professor at Uppsala University and one of the lead researchers, highlighted the remarkable outcomes of the study. “Just one guided treatment session showed positive effects, indicating that it is possible to reduce the frequency of unpleasant and intrusive memories of trauma,” Holmes stated. She added that if a common tool like video gaming can mitigate trauma, it could become a widely accessible form of intervention.
At the start of the study, participants reported an average of 15 flashbacks per week. After just a week, those who played Tetris had a dramatic reduction, averaging only one flashback per week. Meanwhile, the control group still experienced five flashbacks on average. These effects were not only immediate but long-lasting. Six months after the study, the group that played Tetris reported a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, including a further reduction in the occurrence of flashbacks.
Holmes expressed surprise at the effectiveness of the method, especially considering how long the benefits lasted. “It was surprising that the treatment method was so effective and that the improvement in symptoms lasted for six months,” she remarked.
This study could pave the way for the integration of video games as a therapeutic tool for PTSD. The fact that such a treatment is cost-effective, easily accessible, and enjoyable for patients adds to its potential as a revolutionary approach to mental health care. While more research is needed to confirm the findings on a larger scale, the initial results are promising for the millions of people living with PTSD.
As technology continues to advance, the role of digital tools in treating mental health conditions is gaining attention. With this study, video games like Tetris could offer an innovative, user-friendly solution to one of the most debilitating disorders affecting trauma survivors.
