10 Surprising Ways Video Games Are Actually Good For You

3. Treat Depression

The random acts of violence often perpetrated by disturbed individuals are regularly blamed on the influence of violent films and video games. This reductive view is unfortunately prevalent in many media outlets, which is why its refreshing to find evidence that suggests video games can actually help treat mental illness. Researchers from New Zealand have created their own video game which is designed to treat depressed teenagers as an alternative to conventional counselling. The acronym SPARX stands for 'smart, positive, active, realistic and x-factor thoughts', strategies which have been previously proven to help fight depression. The game itself involves creating an avatar who explores a fantasy world with the aim of removing 'gloomy, negative automatic thoughts' in an effort to restore order to the land. Each level incorporates facts about depression and strategies that can be used to help deal with negative thoughts within the game play. The study itself treated 168 teenagers who had previously been diagnosed with depression. Half of the group were given traditional counseling techniques while the other half played SPARX. Significant differences were found between the two groups; while 44% of those who played SPARX recovered completely, only 26% of the other participants were cured of their depression. The researchers have since made the game freely available to play online in New Zealand for anyone who suffers from depression. Admittedly, not everyone enjoys playing video games, but it sure beats becoming addicted to prozac!