If you grew up in the ’80s, chances are you spent a good chunk of your childhood immersed in Tetris. Launched in 1984, this classic puzzle game captivated players with its simple graphics and straightforward gameplay. Beyond its entertainment value, recent research suggests that Tetris may have a significant impact on mental health, particularly in mitigating intrusive memories following traumatic experiences.
Research Findings
A study from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden sought to explore whether engaging in games like Tetris could reduce distressing, recurring memories after a traumatic event. Emily Johnson, a psychologist at the institute who spearheaded the research, explained, “We believed that if patients played Tetris while waiting in an emergency room, they would experience fewer intrusive memories related to their trauma.” Their findings supported this hypothesis. Among 71 individuals who suffered motor vehicle accidents, those who played Tetris during their recovery reported fewer intrusive memories compared to those who did not. Furthermore, the memories they did have faded more quickly.
Participants in the study played Tetris for 20 minutes on a handheld device, while a control group completed an activity log detailing their experiences. “Trauma can affect anyone,” Johnson noted. “If simple behavioral techniques using video games can help reduce post-traumatic stress, the potential benefits could be enormous.”
Previous Studies
This isn’t the first time Tetris has been linked to trauma recovery. A 2017 study indicated that playing Tetris and similar games could lessen intrusive thoughts after a traumatic event, especially when played within the first 24 hours. Another study in 2019 pointed to Tetris as a possible aid for alleviating flashbacks connected to PTSD.
How Tetris Works
The reasoning behind Tetris’s effectiveness may resemble the principles used in EMDR therapy, which involves guiding patients through recalling distressing events while their eye movements are directed. This method helps lessen the emotional impact of the memories by diverting attention, much like how Tetris draws the player’s focus away from trauma.
A Cautionary Note
While Tetris offers an intriguing supplementary tool for coping with trauma, it should not replace professional therapy. Trauma is complex and individualized, and those who have experienced it should seek appropriate treatment. However, as someone living with complex PTSD, I can attest that having additional strategies for distraction is invaluable. The thought that a simple game can provide grounding and a sense of control is encouraging.
Conclusion
If you find yourself struggling with flashbacks or intrusive thoughts post-trauma, consider taking a break and engaging with this iconic game from the ’80s. Redirecting your attention from distress to Tetris might offer you some relief in both the short and long term. It’s like having a mental health first-aid kit right in your pocket.
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Summary
Playing Tetris may help prevent intrusive memories after trauma, according to research from the Karolinska Institute. By engaging with the game shortly after a traumatic event, individuals may experience fewer distressing memories and quicker recovery. While not a substitute for therapy, Tetris can serve as a valuable distraction tool for those dealing with trauma.
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