The Exergame as a Tool for Mental Health Treatment

Exergames are a form of active video game sometimes used to improve physical and cognitive functions and decrease stress levels for persons participating in various types of rehabilitation. This study reviewed exergame research articles published between January 1980 and August 2016 for their potential benefits to mental health. Based on the inclusion-exclusion criteria, 17 studies were selected. Due to moderate to high effect sizes, results show that exergames are a potentially useful tool in some therapeutic treatments for individuals with mental health disorders, although methodological limitations reflect the need for more comprehensive and focused studies. Evidence-based articles are categorized for their potential applications to mental health settings, and the games themselves are briefly described.