Games for the Assessment and Treatment of Mental Health

Abstract The prevalence of mental illness is on the rise [7]–18% of adults in the USA had a diagnosed mental illness in 2014 [31]; however, 57% of adults with mental illness in the USA do not receive treatment [28]. Untreated mental illness has serious consequences. The cost of depression and anxiety alone is estimated at $1 trillion per year in US dollars [8]. In addition to these financial costs, people experience costs to their well-being that range from a lower quality of life [39] to a loss of life [32]. Although mental health care systems can ...

User Statistics for an Online Health Game Targeted at Children

A neurofeedback video game (MindLight) to prevent anxiety in children: A randomized controlled trial

Background Childhood anxiety is a global mental health concern. Interventions are needed that are effective, but also cost less, are more accessible and engage children long enough to build emotional resilience skills through practice. Methods The present randomized controlled study aimed to examine the prevention effects of a neurofeedback video game, MindLight, developed based on evidence-based practices with anxious youth. Over 750 children (7–13 years old) in elementary schools were screened for elevated anxiety; 136 ...

A feasibility study on the effectiveness of a full-body videogame intervention for decreasing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms

A randomized controlled trial comparing two cognitive-behavioral programs for adolescent girls with subclinical depression: A school-based program (Op Volle Kracht) and a computerized program (SPARX)

Designing and utilizing biofeedback games for emotion regulation: The case of nevermind

DEEP: A biofeedback virtual reality game for children at-risk for anxiety

Abstract Anxiety disorders are among the most frequently diagnosed mental health problems in children, leading to potentially devastating outcomes on a personal level and high costs for society. Although evidence-based interventions are readily available, their outcomes are often disappointing and variable. In particular, existing interventions are not effective long-term nor tailored to differences in individual responsiveness. We therefore need a new approach to the prevention and treatment of anxiety in children and a ...

A randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of an immersive 3D video game for anxiety prevention among adolescents

The promise of applied video games for the prevention of anxiety and depression in youth

A Pilot Study Evaluating "Dojo" a Videogame Intervention for Youths with Externalizing and Anxiety Problems

Abstract Objective: Externalizing problems, which are the main reason for youth referrals to mental health agencies, are highly persistent and predict a range of negative outcomes. Youths with externalizing problems are also frequently comorbid with anxiety. Among the most widely recognized evidence-based treatments is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Although CBT principles seem to be sound, effect sizes remain moderate, suggesting improvements could be made to this conventional treatment approach. The main premise ...