Evolution of Video Games

       When video games originally were created, they were meant to be played in public areas, usually arcades. We still have arcades, but they're not as common these days because video games have now become an "at home" activity. After video game counsels like the game cube and nintendos were created, there was no need to go to an arcade anymore. Now, the use of video games is being recognized in the mental health world. This is a crazy, yet impressive concept. The idea that video games can work as a means of therapy to help people with different mental disorders is a clear depiction of evolution. 

How Does This Work? 

         There are actually ways to use our favorite video games as a form of therapy, but now with the help of advanced technology there are video games specifically made and used in the medical world. According to NBCI, these things are called EGPs which stands for electronic games for psychotherapy. They refer to games that are used purely for entertainment purposes as EGE, and like I mentioned before these are still used within the medical field as well. In the article it stated that both these types of games can actually be used to help patients gain motivation, knowledge and even physical success. There is scientific proof that video games can actually help improve the physical health in a child when done in moderation. The article also stated that EGEs can be used on children who have had chemotherapy and are experiencing the symptoms like nausea and anxiety. Video games, purely for leisure, can calm the patient and actually mentally heal them from the chemo. It is important to note these things because parents don't often steer towards video games, especially when their child is undergoing major surgeries and procedures. But you never know, the solution could lie in your child's favorite video game. One of the things I read in the article that was most surprising to me was that EGPs can actually help children with tumors. But how? Well, this EGP is a first person shooter game where the child is to attack its tumor(s) (the enemy) with white blood cells basically. Throughout the game they are able to pick up point boosters, which are like healthy food and fruits. The more tumors they attack the higher their life-meter goes up. This is great because it is basically teaching the child what is happening in their own body, and teaching them how to fight their tumor while the child is still enjoying him or herself.

Final Thoughts

         I think one of the most important things to remember in life is that you can find what will heel you in the most obscure places. I'm sure it is really hard to believe that video games could help someone get through such a terrifying thing like having a tumor. You cannot be closed minded, especially in the medical field. The solutions could be anywhere and I think that more people should look into things like video games to see if the technology can help us solve some of the many deadly diseases we have in the world. 

Link: 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4196027/