Mental heath is an illness which accounts for over 14% of all health issues globally and too often is a subject avoided or misunderstood. Well, the non for profit organisation Check Point are hoping to change that and help people with mental health issues using the power of video games.
CheckPoint are currently running a Kickstarter to raise funds for a 16 episode web-series about mental health and gaming.
The series will be broken up into two seasons, talking about depression, anxiety, well being in the games industry, psychology of game heroes. But most importantly, raise awareness of common mental health issues and highlight how people who are affected can receive help.
It will will feature evidence-based advice from mental health professionals and stories from game developers, journalists and content creators about their experiences with the less understood illness.
The series has support from several prominent members of the Australian and international video game industry, including Josh Scherr, a co writer on Uncharted 4 and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy.
“Feelings of shame, fear, and helplessness are all too common among those suffering from mental health issues,” said Josh. “Often, it makes taking that first step towards seeking help incredibly difficult. Easy to access resources, such as this video series, are often invaluable in helping people get past that initial hurdle, and as such, can be life-changing (if not outright lifesaving)”.
I'm involved with The CHECKPOINT Series b/c I believe they're doing important work & creating a valuable resource: https://t.co/PYbNPhuBK3
— Josh Scherr (@joshscherr) May 4, 2017
Co founder and executive director of CheckPoint Dr Jennifer Hazel, believes video games have promising roles in mental health care and that this could be an important part of it.
“Gaming brings people together, there’s evidence to prove games can treat anxiety, depression, improve mood, and so much more. We truly believe that we can improve the lives of people all over the world by using the wonderful power of video games..”
At the moment the Kickstarter is just over $10,000 away from their goal with a week left on the campaign. We think it is a terrific cause and believe video games are not only an amazing past time and art form, but can also be used to help cope with mental illness and the harder moments in our lives.
Check out the Kickstarter here and learn more about CheckPoint and their work on their website.
