Gamertell

Researchers at McGill University in Montreal have created what could potentially be the greatest application for gaming in daily life – an anxiety and stress relieving game. Originally designed to help patients cope with anxiety, the Matrix (no relation to the “Whoa!” movies or games of the same name) reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol by 17%.

From the National Review of Medicine:

“Developed by McGill researchers, the Matrix video game involves a series of exercises that train the mind to focus on positive feedback rather than perceived social criticisms. In one game players are asked to click on the one happy face among a horde of frowning faces as fast as possible. The idea is that this should help patients learn to accentuate the positive.”

And the best part? The researchers tested the game on telemarketers, a high-stress group if ever there was one. Playing the Matrix game improved their self-esteem, lowered cortisol, and improved work performance. The authors want to try out the game on other populations, and to combat other anxiety and stress related problems. They’ve also formed a company called MindHabits to market the game.

I’ve got to say, this is a fantastic idea. Games have always had enormous potential for therapeutic and educational purposes, and its great to see some of that tapped into.

Read [Natl. Review of Medicine] Site [MindHabits]

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