Tetris could improve the lives of 11 percent of Australians

Key points:

• Researchers have identified that playing Tetris may be an effective treatment for Australians experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder
• An estimated 11 percent of Australians will experience post-traumatic stress disorder at some point, as per recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
• The Australian Government has spent $8.3 million dollars to establish a new national research centre dedicated to post-traumatic stress disorder on the Sunshine Coast

Researchers have found that playing games, such as Tetris, could be an effective way to treat post-traumatic stress disorder.

In a recently released study involving a University of New South Wales researcher, participants played Tetris to reduce the impact of flashbacks associated with their traumatic experiences and flashbacks. 

In Tetris, players need to understand what a shape would look like when it is rotated, a key component explored by researchers in the study.

Up to 75 percent of Australians may experience a traumatic event in their lives according to recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Professor Emily Holmes, the study’s lead researcher, commented on the impact of participants playing Tetris as a treatment method.

“[…] [With this treatment] it is possible to reduce the frequence [sic] of unpleasant and intrusive memories of trauma and thereby also alleviate other PTSD symptoms. With just one guided treatment session, we saw positive effects that persisted after five weeks and even six months after treatment,” she said.

“If this effect can be achieved with an everyday tool that includes video gaming, it could be an accessible way to help many people.” 

Although the Tetris game was invented in 1984, it can be readily accessed for free online and in apps.

Examples of trauma that can lead to PTSD include the sudden death of a loved one, natural disasters, physical or sexual assault or events such as a severe car accident.

Most people who experience a traumatic event eventually learn to readjust and cope with the situation and the associated memories. However, some people may continue to experience worsening symptoms including exhaustion, anxiety and disassociation that last for months or even years. 

Although a mental health professional must diagnose it, such long-lasting symptoms may be caused by PTSD. 

An estimated 11 percent of Australians will experience PTSD at some point during their life.

Professor Holmes identified that while the participants with PTSD may have benefitted from engaging in Tetris, other factors for treatment should be considered.

“It was surprising to us that the treatment method was so effective and that the improvement in symptoms lasted for six months. I realise that it may seem unlikely that such a short intervention, which includes video games but doesn’t include an in-depth discussion of trauma with a therapist, could help,” she said.

“[…] The study provides scientifically controlled evidence that a single guided digital treatment session can reduce the number of intrusive memories and that it can be used safely by participants.”

Although treating PTSD with Tetris may not yet be a mainstream treatment, Australian researchers are developing other treatments to help people with PTSD.

The Australian Government recently announced the opening of a new PTSD research clinic on the Sunshine Coast. The establishment of the centre cost $8.3 million dollars and researchers at the clinic will be developing new methods to treat PTSD. 

Additionally, mental health professionals at this clinic will provide support to Australians with PTSD, as well as increase understanding and knowledge of the condition across Australia. 

University of the Sunshine Coast Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Helen Bartlett highlighted the importance of improving PTSD care for Australians.

“Mental ill health is a major health concern for Australians, with almost half of the population either directly or indirectly experiencing the impact of mental illness. It is therefore important that we support our communities by finding the best solutions and ensuring equitable access to treatment,” she said.

“By conducting world-class research under the same roof as clinical services, education and advocacy for patients and their carers, the University of the Sunshine Coast is able to quickly translate research breakthroughs into practice for PTSD, as well as in the fields of youth mental health, ageing and dementia and suicide prevention.”

What benefits do you see when playing games such as Tetris?

Let the team at Talking Disability know on social media. 

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