More soldiers with PTSD being treated with Tetris

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects nearly 7 million Americans, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Rehabilitation facilities can help individuals manage the condition, but many people are unaware that they have PTSD. Most commonly, soldiers suffer from the illness when they return home from war.

A new study conducted by Oxford University has found that treating the condition may be as simple as having the patient play a video game. Tetris, a puzzle game that was released in 1984, has proven to be effective in preventing flashbacks in soldiers with PTSD. Experts say that the game triggers the sensory part of the brain, which combats traumatic images.

Researchers of the study note that not all video games have the same effect, however. Some games may even trigger trauma in the brain for individuals with PTSD. But doctors are beginning to rely more on Tetris to treat the condition.

People who are suffering from PTSD or any other anxiety disorder can seek similar treatment at rehabilitation facilities. Because conditions vary, however, treatment may be administered on a case-to-case basis.