As folks turn to different ways to cope with COVID-19, many are using video games for their mental health benefits. One recent decision made by the FDA proves these medical benefits specifically for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The FDA recently approved EndeavorRX as a treatment for the disorder and may be prescribed for children with ADHD.
In becoming this official prescription, it makes history as the first video game to do so. The FDA has not approved any other game previously, making EndeavorRX a new kind of video game therapy.
EndeavorRX
Children with ADHD will most commonly exhibit traits of inattention and an inability to sit still and follow instructions. It’s somewhat common too — four million children ages 6-11 have ADHD in the U.S. This disorder can be difficult in daily life. In school, especially, these traits can make it hard for kids to learn. EndeavorRX, however, is swooping in to help.
The Akili Interactive Labs game lets kids play as a character of their choice and navigate through different levels. They ride on a small hoverboard-like vehicle and speed through several environments — rivers, jungles, oceans, and volcanoes. In each level, players must avoid obstacles in their path. They come quickly, too, so kids must act fast.
With a fast-paced nature, the game seeks to improve attention in kids 8-12 years old. In fact, the creators designed this game specifically for children with ADHD. However, in order to get the FDA to approve it, the game first went through a trial.
In the study, researchers had children with ADHD consistently play the game for a set period of time — 25 minutes per day, five days per week, for four weeks. They used a control group as well, to compare their results.
Ultimately, researchers said more studies are necessary, but the results suggest that the game helps children with ADHD. Additionally, the only side effects in the study were frustration and headaches.
Video Game Therapy
EndeavorRX is an important stride for video games, ADHD and digital treatments. It’s paving the way for more video game therapy to follow as well as innovative treatments.
Video games sometimes get a bad reputation for being consuming and distracting. However, EndeavorRX shows that video games can benefit health. In fact, people who play fast-paced action games can make decisions 25% faster than those who play slower games. This game from Akili heightens those benefits.
Since EndeavorRX is creating a path for digital ADHD treatments, more are likely to follow. The field will expand and digital treatments can become a norm — for ADHD and other disorders, illnesses and conditions. For instance, using virtual reality (VR) for immersive therapy is a growing trend.
With this kind of momentum, EndeavourRX is opening doors for an innovative future, giving more treatment and access to people who need it. You can join the waitlist now for the game.
Things to Keep in Mind
Though this video game is groundbreaking, there are some things you should keep in mind. The study states that you should not necessarily replace current ADHD treatments with EndeavorRX. You’ll also need a prescription in order to use it as a treatment.
Additionally, the study only tested kids who were not taking ADHD medication or using other treatments. Therefore, there isn’t information on the effects.
Nevertheless, EndeavorRX is a game-changer for many reasons, and it’s available to try now.