Games That Improve Women’s Mental Health: A Research-Based Perspective

In recent years, the intersection of gaming and mental health has garnered significant attention, with numerous studies highlighting the positive effects of games on mental well-being. For women, who may face unique mental health challenges, certain games have been researched and proven to offer therapeutic benefits. Here are some games that have been found to help improve women’s mental health.

1. “SuperBetter”

Overview: “SuperBetter” is a game designed by game designer Jane McGonigal to help players build resilience and recover from mental health challenges.

Research Findings:

• Mental Resilience: Studies have shown that “SuperBetter” can help increase resilience, optimism, and social support while decreasing anxiety and depression.
• Post-Traumatic Growth: The game has been effective in helping individuals, including women, cope with traumatic events and foster personal growth.

How It Helps:

• Encourages setting and achieving small, manageable goals.
• Promotes positive thinking and self-efficacy.
• Engages players in social interactions and support networks.

2. “Journey”

Overview: “Journey” is an adventure game that focuses on exploration and emotional storytelling, offering a calming and introspective experience.

Research Findings:

• Stress Reduction: Studies have found that playing “Journey” can lead to significant reductions in stress and anxiety levels.
• Emotional Healing: The game’s serene and visually stunning environment provides a space for emotional reflection and healing.

How It Helps:

• Provides a meditative and soothing gameplay experience.
• Encourages players to connect with their emotions and reflect on their journey.
• Fosters a sense of accomplishment and tranquility.

3. “Animal Crossing: New Horizons”

Overview: “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” is a social simulation game where players create and manage their own virtual island, interact with anthropomorphic animals, and engage in various relaxing activities.

Research Findings:

• Social Connectivity: The game has been found to enhance feelings of social connectivity and reduce loneliness, especially during periods of isolation.
• Mood Improvement: Playing “Animal Crossing” has been associated with improved mood and reduced stress levels.

How It Helps:

• Provides a sense of community and belonging through interactions with in-game characters and other players.
• Offers a relaxing, low-pressure environment where players can engage in creative and enjoyable activities.
• Encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness.

4. “Stardew Valley”

Overview: “Stardew Valley” is a farming simulation game where players manage a farm, engage in community activities, and build relationships with in-game characters.

Research Findings:

• Mental Health Benefits: Research suggests that playing “Stardew Valley” can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Sense of Purpose: The game provides players with a sense of purpose and accomplishment through goal-setting and achievement.

How It Helps:

• Promotes a routine and structure that can be therapeutic for individuals with anxiety or depression.
• Encourages social interaction and relationship-building within the game.
• Provides a peaceful and engaging escape from real-life stressors.

 

 

5. “Tetris”

Overview: “Tetris” is a classic puzzle game that involves fitting falling blocks into a grid to clear lines and score points.

Research Findings:

• Cognitive Benefits: Studies have shown that playing “Tetris” can improve cognitive function, including spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Stress and Trauma: Research indicates that “Tetris” can help reduce the impact of traumatic memories and alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How It Helps:

• Provides a mental distraction that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
• Encourages focused attention and mindfulness, which can be calming.
• Offers a sense of control and mastery, which can be empowering.

6. “Flow”

Overview: “Flow” is an immersive game that places players in the role of an aquatic microorganism navigating through a surreal underwater environment.

Research Findings:

• Flow State: The game is designed to induce a state of flow, a highly focused mental state associated with increased happiness and reduced anxiety.
• Relaxation: Players report feeling more relaxed and less stressed after playing “Flow”.

How It Helps:

• Encourages deep focus and immersion, which can help alleviate anxiety.
• Provides a visually and audibly calming environment.
• Promotes a sense of achievement and progression.

Conclusion

Games can be powerful tools for improving mental health, offering benefits such as stress reduction, emotional healing, social connectivity, and cognitive enhancement. For women, these researched games provide accessible and enjoyable ways to manage mental health challenges and enhance overall well-being. By incorporating these games into their routines, women can find valuable support and relief, contributing to a healthier and happier life.