# Stress-Relieving Games Biofeedback Technology is Helping Build Anxiety-Fighting Video Games By Omar Yusuf | Published 2011-09-05 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biofeedback-technology References: [kotaku](http://kotaku.com/5836239/a-biofeedback) & [rit.edu](http://www.rit.edu/news/story.php?id=48502) By measuring the participant's heart rate, breathing levels and other indicators of stress, [biofeedback technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rg-g01) is being used to develop psychologically conscious video games. A mouthful, I know, but the concept is simple: Play a game, reduce your anxiety. I don't envy today's college students one bit. Between the mounting tuition fees, lower employability and a hyper-competitive jobs market, I'm glad I graduated before things hit the fan. Luckily, today's students will have psychological games to help combat the anxiety they doubtlessly fight everyday. Biofeedback technology is being developed at the [Rochester Institute of Technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/onebuttonpin) and researchers are working hard to synthesize the tech with modern games. The result is a simulation that helps students develop [stress-control techniques](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/manage-stress) and fight tension at school and at home. Keep squeezing that stress ball, however, because the RIT research team doesn't expect to release the video game until the winter! ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.1/10 - Popularity: 7% | Activity: 18% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [AI](https://www.trendhunter.com/ai) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Biofeedback Games:** Biofeedback technology is being used to develop games aimed at reducing anxiety and stress levels in users. - **Psychologically Conscious Games:** By measuring indicators of stress, games are being developed that help users to develop stress-control techniques and fight tension. - **Anxiety-fighting Games:** Video games are being developed to help combat anxiety and stress, particularly among college students. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Game Development:** The use of biofeedback technology provides game developers with an innovative way to create games with a focus on mental health and well-being. - **Education:** The development of psychologically conscious video games provides an opportunity for educators and students to supplement traditional stress-control techniques. - **Mental Health:** Biofeedback games could be a part of the suite of tools used to help individuals manage their mental health. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Cozy Self-Exploration Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/betwixt.md) - [Gamified Stress Reduction Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mental-health-gaming-app.md) - [Musical Mental Wellness Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alphabeats.md) - [Gamified VR Therapy Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/behavr.md) - [Noninvasive Digital Stress Relievers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vagus-nerve-stimulator.md) - [Electric Brain Stimulation Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roga-1.md) - [Mental Health-Supporting Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paradise-island.md) - [Wearable Stress Management Monitors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stress-anxiety-monitor-app.md) - [Three-Step Calming Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/help-me-calm-down.md)