The Issue:
One of the most important ways that people can increase their mental wellbeing is to find meaningful social connections and a supportive community. Another is good self-care – showing up for ourselves so that we can show up for others and be ready to face mental health challenges. During this difficult time, when it is harder to come together and the world is full of uncertainty, people need meaningful, accessible ways to take care of themselves.
The Game Design Prompt:
In the midst of COVID-19 and social distancing, it is more important than ever to connect with friends and family, find ways to manage your stress and take good care of yourself. Make a game that addresses one of these issues.
Resilience is “the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress”
Self-care refers to the intentional actions and lifestyle choices that we make to improve our mental well-being
Playing games mimics the process of resilience and serve as a helpful analogue to good self-care routines and practices
Regularly reinforcing social connections helps mental health
Games can be a great way to connect and engage with any of your social connections
Take This is a non-profit organization that aims to decrease the stigma and increase the support for mental health in the game enthusiast community and inside the game industry. Dive into their expert content to learn about different topics that address mental health and wellbeing.
Jane McGonigal, PhD is a world-renowned designer of alternate reality games — or, games that are designed to improve real lives and solve real problems. One of her most popular games, Superbettter, has helped more than a million players tackle real-life health challenges such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injury. Her TED talks on how games can make a better world and the game that can give you 10 extra years of life, are among the all-time most popular TED talks, and have more than 15 million views. Check them out below!
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