Knowledge Translation of Lived Experiences of Depression and Anxiety through Video Games Co-creation
MENTAL Jam is a PhD research project, conducted at RMIT University, which is interested in understanding people’s experiences of depression and anxiety. We would like to know about your experience of depression and anxiety, including what this experience was like. We would like to develop video games about the lived experiences of depression and anxiety as a form of knowledge translation to promote empathy and mental health awareness in the community.
People with lived experience of mental illness have used different artistic mediums to portray their stories as a form of self-expression and to raise community awareness. Video games offer interactive and immersive experiences that can inspire players to gain knowledge of the lived perspectives of others. The research project will provide a venue for young people with lived experience of depression and anxiety to share their stories, learn new game development skills and work together to develop video games through game jam workshops.
About
Participants do not need to have a background in game development. Please contact us if you are interested in participating in this project and/or would like more details.
Contact
Or if you’d like to support this project, please and thank you ☕💜
Games
These games are co-created with young people with lived experience of depression and anxiety during game jam workshops over a period of 48 hours to a month.
Counter Attack Therapy
Meet Alex, a humanoid cat in their mid-20s who works full-time. One day, they encounter some trouble at work and fall into a hole of depression and anxiety. As a friend, you will help Alex escape the evil cycle and stand firm on their feet again.
Amour de Soi
Meet Raielle San, an anxious girl who is on a journey to self-love following a break-up from a toxic relationship. She has a tendency to overthink and be trapped in her own thoughts. She meets Pixie, a magical manifestation of her subconscience, who challenges her negative thoughts and offers some sage wisdom.
Mental Health Services and Helplines (Australia)
| Lifeline | 13 11 14 |
| Suicideline | 1300 651 251 |
| Suicide Call Back Service | 1300 659 467 |
| Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Anxiety Helpline | 1300 269 438 or 9886 9377 |
| Kids Helpline (5 to 25-year-olds) | 1800 551 800 |
#MENTALJam
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