How Therapists Are Using Video Games to Support Mental Health

Therapists are increasingly turning to video games as tools for mental health support. These games offer unique ways to engage clients without adding pressure or stress. Some titles have even been formally recommended during challenging times like the global lockdowns. Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a go-to recommendation for therapists during the pandemic. It helped clients cope with disconnection and anxiety by providing a calm, creative space. Sessions were often kept short, between 20 and 40 minutes, to prevent the game from feeling like another task.

Stardew Valley is another favourite for those dealing with burnout or generalised anxiety. Its seasonal farm life runs without punishment for missed objectives, allowing players to engage at their own pace. Therapists appreciate its ability to hold attention without performance expectations.

Celeste stands out for its precise reflection of therapeutic recovery. Developed by Maddy Thorson while battling anxiety and depression, its gameplay mirrors the struggles and progress of mental health journeys. Kind Words, on the other hand, fosters real human connection with minimal social risk by having players respond to others’ problems in writing.

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice uses binaural audio to simulate a mental health crisis with striking accuracy. The Wellcome Trust partnership ensured its portrayal was both immersive and medically sound. Gris, a hand-drawn platformer, depicts emotional recovery through a shift from colourless to vibrant visuals, with no enemies or fail states to disrupt the experience.

Journey offers a different approach, guiding players across a vast desert in about two hours of wordless play. This makes it useful for clients who struggle with verbal processing, providing a non-verbal way to explore emotions. These games provide varied ways to support mental well-being. They have been used in therapy to reduce stress, foster connection, and simulate recovery. Their design often aligns closely with therapeutic goals, offering accessible tools for both clients and professionals.