Gamertell

It’s difficult for the parents of a child diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) to find ways to control their child’s disorder and help him or her live a normal childhood.

PopCap Games recently contracted Information Solutions Group to conduct a unique survey in April 2008 in which 2,728 respondents (of the 13,296 casual gamers surveyed) indicated they or someone they are caring for has a disability…

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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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