5 Games to Boost Mental Health

Video games are often seen as a way to escape, but they can also be powerful tools for mental health. With interactive storytelling, vivid worlds, and engaging gameplay, certain games dive into mental health themes, offering players unique ways to understand, process, and even improve their own well-being. These games go beyond entertainment, tackling issues like anxiety, depression, and self-worth in ways that resonate deeply with players. This blog will explore five impactful games that not only captivate but also bring attention to mental health, each one crafted to encourage insight, empathy, and personal growth through immersive experiences.

Games Exploring Mental Health Experiences

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice - Psychosis and Anxiety
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice offers a powerful look into psychosis and anxiety through the eyes of Senua, a Celtic warrior battling inner demons. The game’s audio and visual effects create an intense atmosphere, allowing players to experience auditory and visual hallucinations similar to those faced by individuals with psychosis. This portrayal breaks down stigmas by encouraging empathy and understanding for those with mental health struggles, especially anxiety. Developed in partnership with neuroscientists and individuals with lived experiences, Hellblade brings a rare authenticity to its narrative, making it a meaningful journey for players and a groundbreaking title for mental health representation.

Wandersong - Depression and Self-Esteem
In Wandersong, players step into the shoes of a cheerful bard whose music has the power to save the world. Unlike traditional heroes, the bard relies on song rather than combat, symbolizing healing and self-expression. The game’s uplifting narrative encourages players to embrace their unique traits, promoting themes of self-worth and the beauty of individuality. With its heartfelt message and whimsical gameplay, Wandersong demonstrates the impact of kindness and optimism, making it an inspiring experience for anyone facing low self-esteem or struggling to find their place in the world.

Games Offering Insight into Depression

Actual Sunlight - Depression and Suicidal Thoughts
Actual Sunlight presents an unflinchingly raw depiction of depression, capturing the day-to-day struggles of Evan Winters, a man weighed down by his mental health in a mundane corporate life. Through text-based storytelling, the game delves into Evan’s internal dialogue, portraying his diminishing sense of hope and self-worth with an honesty that resonates deeply. By addressing difficult topics like suicidal thoughts without filter, Actual Sunlight offers a powerful, introspective experience that connects players with the realities of living with depression, fostering understanding and empathy.

Fractured Minds - Anxiety and General Mental Health Awareness
Created by 17-year-old Emily Mitchell, Fractured Minds introduces players to mental health awareness through metaphorical, puzzle-based levels that simulate the challenges of anxiety and other conditions. Each level represents a different mental health struggle, making complex issues more accessible and sparking conversation around them. By supporting mental health charities through its sales, Fractured Minds not only raises awareness but also gives back to the community, reinforcing its commitment to mental health in a way that extends beyond the screen.

Historical Perspective on Mental Health

The Town of Light - Historical Mental Health Treatment
The Town of Light provides a haunting look into the history of mental health treatment, set in a fictionalized version of Italy’s Volterra Psychiatric Hospital during the early 20th century. Through the story of Renée, a young woman institutionalized for her mental health, players experience the harsh realities of outdated psychiatric practices and the struggles of patients within these institutions. The game educates players about the historical mistreatment of mental health patients, shedding light on the stigma and human rights abuses that were prevalent. By anchoring its narrative in a realistic, historically accurate environment, The Town of Light fosters empathy and awareness, urging players to reflect on the progress—and ongoing challenges—in mental health care today.

Conclusion

Video games hold remarkable potential for supporting mental health, offering insights into complex emotions, fostering empathy, and providing safe spaces for emotional exploration. Through immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay, the titles highlighted here help break down mental health stigmas and open meaningful conversations about issues like anxiety, depression, and self-worth. Exploring these games can be a valuable way for players to connect with mental health themes, gain understanding, and find solace. However, it’s essential to remember that while these games can be enlightening and therapeutic, they are not replacements for professional mental health care.

FAQ

1. Can video games really improve mental health?
   Yes, certain games can positively impact mental health by offering stress relief, emotional expression, and a way to process complex feelings. Games that thoughtfully explore mental health themes can also build empathy and understanding.

2. Are these games suitable for all ages?
   Some games, like Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice and Actual Sunlight, deal with intense themes and may not be suitable for younger players. Always check the game’s rating and content warnings to ensure it’s appropriate for your age group.

3. Do I need gaming experience to benefit from these titles?
   Not necessarily. Games like Fractured Minds and Wandersong are accessible to beginners and don’t require advanced gaming skills. The focus is on the story and emotional experience, making them easy to engage with, even if you’re new to gaming.

4. Can these games replace therapy?
   While these games can offer valuable emotional insights, they should not be considered a substitute for professional mental health care. They’re best used as a supplementary tool to help understand and engage with mental health topics.

5. Where can I find more games like these?
   Many online communities and mental health organizations are exploring the role of games in mental wellness. Resources like TheGamer, Wellpower, and mental health-focused gaming forums can be excellent places to discover more games that tackle these important themes.

Follow me on Bluesky @GetGood

Join the Discord

All sources can be found in the footnotes

1  TheGamer - Mental Illness & Health in Video Games

2  Rely on Horror - Diagnosing the Genre: Mental Health in Horror Gaming

3  PubMed - Study on Video Games and Mental Health

4  ResearchGate - Associations Between Video Game Genre and Psychological Functioning