Attention-Control Video Game Curbs Combat Vets’ PTSD Symptoms

Friday, July 24, 2015

Reduces Fluctuations in Attention Toward and Away from Threat

A computerized attention-control training program significantly reduced combat veterans’ preoccupation with – or avoidance of – threat and attendant PTSD symptoms. By contrast, another type of computerized training, called attention bias modification – which has proven helpful in treating anxiety disorders – did not reduce PTSD symptoms. NIMH and Israeli researchers conducted parallel trials in which the two treatments were tested in US and Israeli combat veterans.