Playing tetris games after a shocking incident significantly prevent the development of traumatic memories and flashbacks

Playing Tetris: A Game-Changer in Preventing Traumatic Memories and Flashbacks

The human mind is a mysterious entity capable of captivating memories and experiences. However, it is not immune to the impact of traumatic incidents, which can often lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Fortunately, recent scientific studies have uncovered an unexpected ally in the battle against traumatic memories and flashbacks – the humble game of Tetris.

Tetris, a classic tile-matching puzzle video game, has long been celebrated for its addictive nature and ability to captivate players. But its impact goes beyond entertainment. Researchers have identified a fascinating connection between playing Tetris and the prevention of traumatic memories.

A study conducted by Emily Holmes, a psychologist at the University of Oxford, shed light on this phenomenon. Holmes and her team found that individuals who engaged in playing Tetris within hours after a shocking incident experienced a significant decrease in the development of traumatic memories and flashbacks. The visual-spatial demands of the game seemed to interfere with the formation of distressing memories within the brain.

How does it work? When a traumatic event occurs, the brain enters a heightened state of arousal, making it more susceptible to forming intrusive memories. By engaging in the mentally demanding game of Tetris, the brain becomes occupied with focusing on the intricate puzzle-solving task at hand, leaving fewer resources available for the intrusive memories to take hold.

The visual-spatial nature of Tetris seems to play a vital role in interrupting the consolidation of traumatic memories. Rather than allowing the traumatic event to replay in the mind, playing Tetris shifts the cognitive resources to a non-threatening and repetitive activity. This diversion effectively disrupts the formation of vivid memories associated with the shocking incident, preventing the development of long-lasting trauma.

It is important to note, however, that not all video games offer the same benefits. In fact, quiz games and other mentally demanding activities that require recall of vivid details can potentially worsen the impact of traumatic memories. This stark contrast highlights the unique characteristics of Tetris and its potential as a therapeutic tool.

As researchers continue to delve into the relationship between Tetris and trauma prevention, the implications for mental health support are tantalizing. The accessibility and ubiquity of Tetris make it a potential cost-effective and widely accessible intervention for individuals exposed to traumatic events.

While further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, the current evidence strongly suggests that playing Tetris after a shocking incident significantly reduces the development of traumatic memories and flashbacks. With the potential to empower individuals in their recovery and alleviate the burden of PTSD, this simple game could be a game-changer in the field of mental health support.

Source: National Geographic - Tetris Could Prevent Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Flashbacks