Finding Connection Through DBT & Gaming
Let's be real for a moment - the world we live in can be tough, especially for our young ones. The pressures they face, the complexities they navigate, it's enough to make anyone's head spin. That's where DBT comes in. It's a holistic approach to therapy that focuses on teaching vital skills like emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
But you might be wondering, how does gaming fit into all of this? As a gamer, let my happily jump on my soap box and tell you!
The Power Of Play
Video games have come a long way from being just a form of entertainment. They've evolved into immersive experiences, often with intricate storylines and dynamic environments. This makes them a perfect medium for learning and self-discovery. Games provide a safe space for exploration, where emotions can be felt and experienced in a controlled environment.
Gaming leads to opportunities to point out struggles such as frustration (has your child or teen ever thrown their control at a wall or screamed when they, yet again, couldn’t get past level 3 of their favorite game?). This is GOOD for the therapeutic space because I can insert DBT skills and encourage your loved one to try something out when frustrated, embarrassed, dissappointed, etc.
Social anxiety is so big right now especially with kids and teens having had to endure Covid and being shut off from their social circles for so long. Through a safer, less direct interaction of gaming, they can practice social interactions, build confidence, and even form connections with others. It's like a rehearsal for real-life scenarios, minus the overwhelming fear.
Mindfulness In Motion
One of the core aspects of DBT is mindfulness. It's about being present in the moment, fully aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Gaming, surprisingly, can be a powerful tool for cultivating this skill.
Have you ever watched a child engrossed in a game, every fiber of their being focused on the screen? That's a form of mindfulness. In that moment, they're completely present, their worries momentarily forgotten. Through gaming, we can teach kids and teens to harness this power, bringing mindfulness into their daily lives.
Embracing Challenge
Life is full of challenges, and for someone battling anxiety or depression, even small tasks can seem insurmountable. Games, however, offer a controlled environment where they can face challenges at their own pace. Whether it's solving puzzles, strategizing in a team, or even facing virtual foes, every small victory in a game becomes a stepping stone in their journey towards personal growth.
Teamwork And Communication
Multiplayer games, in particular, provide an excellent platform for learning interpersonal effectiveness. Coordinating with team members, strategizing, and communicating effectively are all crucial skills in both gaming and real life. For teens who might struggle with social interactions, this can be a game-changer.
Finding Balance
Of course, like anything in life, balance is key. It's important to ensure that gaming doesn't become a substitute for real-world experiences, but rather a complementary tool in their therapeutic journey.
So, there you have it - my take on how DBT and gaming can create an incredible space for growth in children and teens struggling with anxiety and depression. It's about harnessing the potential that lies within these mediums and using them as tools for healing and self-discovery.
Remember, therapy doesn't always have to be confined to four walls and a couch. Sometimes, it can be found in the virtual landscapes and adventures that our young ones embark upon. As an avid gamer, I am so excited at the idea of getting to share this passion with clients while teaching them life long important skills!
