That is one possible explanation. However i have a different theory why difficult games like this can help.

I notice that when i get in a bad head space, i trend to become less active. It then becomes more difficult to start doing anything.

Playing a game like dark souls gives you two things: 1. Its stimulating, and gives you instant feedback. 2. It allows you to fail, and have to retry.

So instead of passively drowning my self in algorithmic content, im actively working towards a goal. This then makes it easier to actually pick something up in the real word.

breaking out of the initial cycle of running away from the world is the most difficult part of getting out of a bad headspace (for me). So anything that breaks open those initial steps can be very helpful.

The great thing about FromSoft games is that I know I'm not being coddled. The game isn't trying to hold my hand (or against me), it's giving me fair, intense challenges.

If I win, that's a testament to my skill. I earned that win, I learned the boss movesets and improvedy reaction time. There is no Minimap, or compass, or sound effects that tell you when to perform x action.

Even the weakest mob can trash me if I get arrogant or greedy, no matter how high level you are.