Supporting Mental Health in the Gaming Industry

A warning: this article discusses sensitive topics such as suicide, overdose, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues. While physical first aid is widely recognized, mental health crises often receive less attention. To bridge this gap, individuals can take specialized Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. MHFA involves providing care to those experiencing mental health problems or crises. This may entail noticing behavioral changes, offering initial support, and guiding them toward professional help. In the workplace, this might involve empowering employees to take mental health days, navigating benefits, and following up on their progress. Crisis situations, such as substance overdose or suicidal thoughts, require immediate intervention, often involving basic steps and potentially emergency services. Given the significant time spent at work, it's likely that mental health issues will arise during working hours. In Canada, one in five people experience mental health problems annually, a statistic likely exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The gaming industry, with its high-stress environment, tight deadlines, and long hours, can increase the risk of mental health problems. Passionate game developers often put in extra time, leading to negative outcomes from increased stress, social isolation, and decreased time for personal activities. Organizations and leaders can positively impact employee mental health by creating a safe and welcoming environment. Key factors include: - Training: Invest in MHFA training for employees, particularly those in positions to notice behavioral changes. - Benefits: Provide mental health-related coverage, including prescription drug coverage and services like massage or acupuncture, to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. - Planning: Leaders should push back against unrealistic expectations, minimize crunch time, and incorporate self-care into planning, especially when dealing with sensitive topics. - Policies: Include mental health-related issues in sick leave policies, avoid enforcing crunch time, and establish clear communication guidelines for discussing mental health. Employees can also take initiative by seeking mental health training, advocating for change, and utilizing available resources, such as crisis lines and therapy. Ultimately, studios and leadership can have a positive impact on employee mental health by engaging with them, investing in solutions, and following up on commitments. Employees should feel empowered to demand support and advocate for their well-being.