The Gamification of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy May Improve Well-Being
The Gamification of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy May Improve Well-Being
The Gamification of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy May Improve Well-Being
August 8, 2022
By Darren J. Edwards
Summary
More recently, many apps have focused on developing and improving mood and mental health such as headspace and mindfulness skills, but there has been little attempt to develop complex adventure games that support mental health and build psychological flexibility and resilience.
The prevalence of mental health problems is shocking, with approximately 251 to 310 million people suffering from depression, and 275 million from an anxiety disorder, globally.
In addition to the vast prevalence of poor mental health, the problem is further compounded as many health care systems globally are not prepared to cope with the problem.
According to the World Health Organization: "Health systems have not yet adequately responded to the burden of mental disorders. As a consequence, the gap between the need for treatment and its provision is wide all over the world."
The World Health Organization has proposed plans to engage in digital health strategies, called the global strategy on digital health, to help deal with health and the treatment gap.
There have been a few applications of video games to support mental health.
Rather than firefight the problem of mental health as it progresses into adulthood, we should be identifying novel approaches to help young people to build mental health skills early so that they are better prepared to cope with many of the struggles they will face in the future.
Reference
Edwards, D. J. (2022, August 9). The gamification of acceptance and commitment therapy may improve well-being. Retrieved August 17, 2022, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychology-in-society/202208/the-gamification-acceptance-and-commitment-therapy-may-improve