Explore the Importance of Mental Health Through Video Games

Video games are unique tools that offer the player an opportunity to immerse themselves in various stories from saving the world from threats to embarking on epic journeys or simply de-stressing with intricate puzzles. In this digital age of new and cutting-edge technologies, video games have the ability to connect generations worldwide and bridge the gap between mental health awareness and positive impact.

A recent study by ‘Power of Play’, which surveyed 13,000 players across 12 countries, found that a whopping 71% felt video games serve as a stress reliever. Through these deep, exciting, and relaxing video games, people all over the world can alleviate their mental health in positive ways. Take a look at the potential of mental health in video games, past and upcoming festival sessions that tackle this topic, and mental health resources available for gamers.

A Shady Part of Me: Explore the emotional journey of a girl trapped in darkness alongside her shadow and manipulate elements in the environment to solve puzzles. Each level represents fragments of her memory, piecing together her identity and the reasons behind her emotional turmoil.

Actual Sunlight: ​​Step into the role of Evan Winter, a young professional in Toronto, as he moves through three distinct periods of his life. Experience his perceptions, fall under the consequences of his decisions, and meet everyone who didn’t change him.

Celeste: Play as Madeline and get ready to embark on a quest to get to the top of Celeste Mountain. Survive moving platforms, spikes, bottomless pits, and the biggest threat of them all – her inner demons and emotional turmoil. 

Chicory A Colorful Tale: A top-down adventure game in a coloring book world full of vibrant characters. Use painting powers to explore, solve puzzles, make friends, and draw on anything.

Florence: At 25, Florence Yeoh feels a little stuck. Her life is an endless routine of work, sleep, and spending too much time on social media. Then one day, she meets a cello player named Krish who changes everything about how she sees the world

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II: Senua returns in a brutal journey of survival through the myth and torment of Viking Iceland. Intent on saving those who have fallen victim to the horrors of tyranny, Senua faces a battle of overcoming the darkness within and without.

Take This: Their mission is to decrease the stigma surrounding mental health within the gaming enthusiast community and simultaneously enhance support for mental well-being within the gaming industry. Envisioning a game community that warmly welcomes and offers robust support to individuals facing mental health challenges while also valuing the humanity and mental health of game creators

Games and Online Harassment Hotline: Offers digital safety guidance and resources for people who make or play games, as well as anyone facing online harassment or in need of emotional support.

Healthy Gamer Foundation: Their mission is to promote the mental health needs of the new digital generation of players by identifying effective mental health interventions for youth through advocacy, research, and more.

As we navigate this everchanging world through video games, let’s remember to prioritize our mental health and well-being. Whether through action-packed adventures or immersive role-playing experiences, video games can serve as powerful avenues for relaxation, learning, and growth. By exploring diverse games and resources, we can progress towards a future where well-being is nurtured and empathy thrives through gaming, creating a more inclusive and supportive community that values the mental health of all its members.