Scientists at Oxford University have announced that engaging in rounds of “Tetris” after a traumatic event can actually help prevent posttraumatic stress disorder flashbacks. Frankly, I’m surprised, because after I play a long round of “Tetris,” I start seeing falling blocks everywhere, which seems more like the result of PTSD than treatment for it.

According to the Oxford study – done independently from the game manufacturer – “Tetris” was the only game that helped prevent the PTSD flashbacks. Other games made the flashbacks worse for study participants, leading researcher Emily Holmes to write, “Tetris may offer a ‘cognitive vaccine’ against flashback development after trauma exposure.”

Now, the man who invented “Tetris” has released a statement explaining why that might be.

“The reason why ‘Tetris’ is so special is because it engages all your mental faculties,” Alexey Pajitnov said. “When you’re playing ‘Tetris’ you are concentrating, strategically thinking, and using spatial reasoning and eye-hand coordination. The effect is mystical – you notice the change after you play. You feel better, like you have accomplished something. That’s the benefit of the Tetris Effect.”

So there you have it. “Tetris” is good for your mental health. When your boss (or your loved one) catches you ignoring your duties and playing your 8,000th level of the game instead, you can say, “It’s this…or benzos. Take your pick.”