In game worlds, some patients feel safer

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Indeed, video games may be just as, or even more, effective in treating mental illness, especially anxiety.

According to a 2017 study published in Prevention Science, the MindLight game was as effective at reducing anxiety in children as cognitive behavioral therapy.
Video games also provided more help in reducing anxiety than prescribing additional medication.
Some games help to highlight mental health issues, such as the character in Sea of ​​Solitude dealing with depression and loneliness. However, entertaining casual games can also have positive outcomes.

A 2009 study published in PLOS One found that after watching a distressing film, playing Tetris can reduce the number of unpleasant memories — reducing the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder.

In fact, as Daramus argues, the game "distracts attention and albania number data memory, preventing you from replaying these memories over and over again as your brain forms them."

and freer, which means it is easier for them to process strong emotions.

Kim Willer Poitiers, a licensed social worker who works with children and adolescents, said that in response to the racial scandals that occurred in the summer of 2020, more and more young black patients were turning to games like Fortnite. She said the children were “afraid of the police” who “think they’re bad” and wanted to “protect themselves.”

Games also help develop emotional self-regulation. Poitevin grew up in a gaming family and was a fan of Atari as a child. She now often hosts gaming sessions with clients, but she doesn't give in to them. Poitevin believes that losing helps children develop a tolerance for frustration, and the inevitable glitches and mistakes in the game build patience.

During the pandemic, online games have become an important additional tool for professionals. “Every therapist I know has a very busy schedule right now,” says Daramus.

When clients can't get to her for an appointment right away or want to practice coping skills between sessions, Daramus often assigns them games focused on mental health issues, such as Sea of ​​Solitude, Night in the Woods, and Gris.