If you were a child of the ’80s, chances are you spent countless hours immersed in the world of Tetris. Launched in 1984, this addictive puzzle game boasted simple graphics and straightforward gameplay that kept players engaged for hours. However, it turns out that this iconic 8-bit game has a surprising benefit: it might help prevent intrusive memories following traumatic experiences.
A study from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden aimed to explore whether playing games like Tetris could mitigate unpleasant and recurring memories after a traumatic incident. Emily Johnson, a psychology professor at the institute, led the research. “Our hypothesis was that individuals who experienced trauma would have fewer intrusive memories if they played Tetris as part of a brief behavioral intervention while waiting in an emergency room,” she explained.
The game’s visual demands were expected to disrupt the memory consolidation process, which is how our brains store memories. Remarkably, the findings supported their hypothesis. Researchers tracked 71 individuals who had been in motor vehicle accidents and discovered that those who played Tetris during their recovery reported fewer intrusive memories compared to those who did not play the game. Additionally, the memories that did occur faded more quickly.
“Trauma can affect anyone,” Johnson noted. “Implementing simple behavioral interventions like playing computer games could significantly alleviate post-traumatic stress and reduce these distressing memories.”
The link between Tetris and trauma recovery isn’t new. A 2017 study indicated that playing Tetris and similar logic-based games could lessen intrusive thoughts when applied within the first 24 hours after a traumatic event. Another study in 2019 suggested that Tetris might even help diminish flashbacks associated with PTSD.
While the exact reasons for Tetris’s effectiveness remain uncertain, researchers propose that the mechanism may be similar to that of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. This technique involves recalling distressing experiences while the therapist guides the patient’s eye movements, which can make the experience less emotionally charged. Playing Tetris shifts focus away from the trauma, allowing individuals to engage with the game instead.
It’s essential to note, however, that Tetris is not a replacement for professional therapy. Each person’s experience with trauma is unique, and those who have faced such challenges should seek appropriate treatment. The studies conducted so far have limitations, including small sample sizes and varying individual responses to trauma. Still, as someone managing complex PTSD, I appreciate having additional tools to help me cope. Knowing that a game can serve as a distraction is valuable, and it’s encouraging to think that something so simple can help ground me.
If you’re dealing with intrusive thoughts or have recently experienced a trauma, take some time to rest and recover. Consider firing up this classic game from the ’80s. Redirecting your attention from trauma to Tetris may provide some relief, both in the short and long term. It’s a portable mental health tool that you can easily access on your phone.
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Summary
Playing Tetris may serve as an effective tool in reducing intrusive memories following traumatic events. Research from the Karolinska Institute suggests that engaging with this classic game can disrupt the memory consolidation process and diminish the frequency and intensity of distressing memories. While it is not a substitute for professional therapy, Tetris can be a simple and accessible way to help manage trauma-related symptoms.
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