A peculiar trend has taken over social media, especially TikTok, where users claim that playing Tetris can help process trauma. The idea has sparked curiosity among mental health professionals, raising questions about whether the popular puzzle game could offer real psychological benefits or if it is just another internet-driven misconception.
The concept suggests that immediately after experiencing a traumatic event, engaging in a game like Tetris might help the brain reorganize information in a way that minimizes distressing memories. Some users swear by the method, saying it reduces intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. Others remain skeptical, questioning if a simple video game can truly alter the way trauma affects the brain.
Understanding the science behind Tetris and trauma
The idea that Tetris can influence memory formation is not entirely new. Researchers have explored the connection between playing the game and reducing trauma-related symptoms for over a decade. The theory is based on the way the brain processes and stores distressing memories. When an individual experiences trauma, the event is often replayed involuntarily, causing persistent flashbacks and distress.
Studies suggest that playing Tetris immediately after a traumatic experience may interfere with how these memories take root. The game engages the brain’s visuospatial processing center, which is also responsible for storing visual aspects of traumatic events. By keeping this part of the brain busy with stacking blocks and forming lines, it becomes harder for traumatic images to be reinforced, potentially reducing flashbacks.
One study found that individuals who played Tetris shortly after witnessing distressing imagery had fewer intrusive memories in the following weeks. Another study observed that trauma-exposed individuals who played Tetris daily reported significantly fewer PTSD symptoms compared to those who did not. While promising, these findings do not suggest that the game is a cure-all for trauma-related conditions.
What makes Tetris different from other games
Unlike many modern video games that involve complex narratives and social interaction, Tetris is purely a spatial reasoning game. It does not require deep emotional engagement, decision-making, or character development. Instead, it forces the brain to focus on simple yet fast-paced pattern recognition.
Some experts believe this is why Tetris may be particularly effective in disrupting trauma-related memories. Unlike games that might emotionally immerse players in dramatic storylines, Tetris remains neutral. The repetitive nature of the gameplay can also create a calming effect, helping the brain regain control when overwhelmed by stress or anxiety.
The limitations of gaming as a coping mechanism
While the idea of using Tetris as a mental health tool is intriguing, experts warn that it should not be viewed as a replacement for traditional therapy. Trauma is a deeply personal and complex experience, and while distraction-based interventions like gaming may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying emotional and psychological impact of trauma.
There is also concern that some individuals may use video games as a form of avoidance rather than healing. If a person consistently turns to gaming to escape from distressing memories without actively processing their emotions, it could delay recovery. Additionally, not everyone experiences the same benefits from playing Tetris, and relying on it as a sole coping strategy could leave some individuals feeling frustrated or unsupported.
A tool, not a cure
Tetris may have potential as a supplemental strategy for managing trauma symptoms, but it should be used with caution. While research indicates it may help reduce intrusive thoughts, it is not a guaranteed solution. Mental health professionals emphasize that trauma recovery typically involves a combination of therapy, self-reflection, and support from loved ones.
If playing Tetris helps ease stress or provides temporary relief from overwhelming thoughts, it may be a useful tool to incorporate into a broader mental health routine. However, individuals struggling with the long-term effects of trauma should consider speaking with a professional to explore more comprehensive treatment options.
Moving forward with a balanced approach
The growing interest in using Tetris as a mental health intervention highlights the increasing curiosity about alternative healing methods. While the game’s cognitive benefits are worth exploring, it is important to recognize its limitations. Healing from trauma is a journey that requires more than a quick fix, and while technology can play a role in easing distress, it should not replace the support systems that are critical for recovery.
For those who find comfort in gaming, incorporating Tetris into a healthy mental wellness plan may be beneficial. However, it is crucial to remain mindful of when distractions become avoidance. A balanced approach—one that includes therapy, self-care, and meaningful support—is the best path toward long-term healing.
