Video Games as Therapeutic Tools for ADHD and Depression

A recent study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins’ Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences has highlighted the potential of therapy-informed video games as effective interventions for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression. The study, published in the American Medical Association’s pediatric journal, analyzed 27 trials involving 2,911 participants aged 6 to 17. The findings indicate that these specially designed games can lead to a “modest reduction” in symptoms of ADHD and depression, with participants and their families reporting improvements in sustained attention and decreased sadness.

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It is crucial to note that the study focused exclusively on clinically designed games that incorporate therapeutic concepts, distinguishing them from commercial games such as Fortnite or Minecraft. One example of a therapy-informed game is EndeavorRx, which has been prescribed and FDA-reviewed to enhance attention function in children. The researchers, including resident physician Barry Bryant and adolescent psychologist Joseph McGuire, emphasized that while the benefits of these games are modest, they represent a novel approach to improving mental health in children.

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The study suggests that these game-based interventions can be delivered at home, making them a potentially scalable solution for families facing long wait times or limited access to traditional mental health care. McGuire noted, “If you are a pediatrician and you’re having trouble getting your pediatric patient into individual mental health care, there could be some gamified mental health interventions that could be nice first steps for children while waiting to start individual therapy.” This accessibility could provide immediate support for families in need.

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Despite the promising findings, some experts express caution regarding the modest nature of the benefits observed. Critics argue that while therapy-informed games may serve as supplementary tools, they should not replace traditional therapeutic methods. The study also found that video games designed for patients with anxiety did not yield meaningful benefits, indicating that not all gaming interventions are equally effective.

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The researchers advocate for the integration of therapy-informed video games into pediatric mental health care, highlighting their potential as an adjunct to conventional therapies. They stress the importance of further research to explore the long-term effects and efficacy of these interventions.

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“While the benefits are still modest, our research shows that we have some novel tools to help improve children’s mental health, particularly for ADHD and depression, that can be relatively accessible to families,” — Joseph McGuire, Adolescent Psychologist

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