Video games are being used to improve mental health outcomes for people struggling with various mental health conditions. Games like “Never Alone” help reduce anxiety, while games like “Journey” uplift the mood of individuals suffering from depression. Video games like “Mindlight” create a safe place for children with post-traumatic stress disorder, and games like “Lumosity” help individuals with ADHD develop their cognitive abilities. Additionally, video games have been used to help individuals quit other forms of addiction. As technology advances, mental health professionals hope that virtual reality experiences will provide better outcomes for patients. However, video games should never replace professional mental health care.
Gaming and Mental Health: How Video Games are Being Used as Therapy
Gaming has become a popular pastime among people of all ages. Millions of people around the world immerse themselves in the virtual worlds created by video game developers to have a good time. However, in recent years, video games have been used to improve mental health outcomes for people struggling with various mental health conditions. Through various game mechanics, video games are helping millions of people cope with the everyday troubles that come with their mental health conditions.
Video games and Anxiety Disorders
For individuals living with anxiety disorders, video games have been used as a tool to alleviate anxiety symptoms. Games such as “Never Alone,” a puzzle-based game that explores Alaskan Native culture, have been designed to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Playing video games like “Never Alone” stimulates the brain, which helps in reducing anxiety symptoms such as panic attacks, excessive worry, and social phobia.
Video games and Depression
Depression is a common mental health disorder amongst individuals of all ages. Video games are being used to help individuals suffering from depression. Games designed to help individuals with depression usually contain music, lighting, and colors that enhance positivity while minimizing negative feelings. Games like “Journey” that focus on adventure and exploration have been shown to uplift the mood of individuals suffering from depression.
Video games and PTSD
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder is a psychiatric disorder caused by a traumatic event or series of events. PTSD usually shows up as anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. Video games like “Mindlight,” a virtual reality game that assists children with PTSD, are being used to treat PTSD symptoms. The game creates a safe place that children with PTSD have control over. The children can explore the virtual world at their own pace and have a sense of control over their lives.
Video games and ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a condition that makes it hard for individuals to focus on a single task. Video games designed for individuals with ADHD are used to enhance focus, attention, and thinking skills. Games such as “Lumosity” help individuals with ADHD develop their cognitive abilities. They include memory games, problem-solving exercises, and attention span tests.
Video games and addiction disorders
Video games have been the subject of addiction lately. Individuals, especially young people, are using video games to avoid life responsibilities. However, video games have also been used to help people quit other forms of addiction. Games like “Alcohol Detector” are designed to help individuals who struggle with alcohol addiction. The game helps them realize the impact of their alcohol use on their life and the people around them.
The future of Video Games as Therapy
The quest to find better and more effective ways to treat mental health conditions continues, and video games are emerging as a potential treatment option. As technology advances, mental health professionals are hopeful that virtual reality experiences will provide a more immersive experience for patients, leading to better outcomes. Researchers are continuing to study the relationship between video games and mental health and create games designed to assist individuals of all ages with mental health issues.
Conclusion
The use of video games as therapy has come a long way. Video games are no longer considered just a form of entertainment; they are now being used to help millions of individuals struggling with various mental health conditions. Although video games should never be considered a substitute for professional mental health care, they serve as an effective complementary treatment option.