Safe In Our World, a charity dedicated to mental health in the video game community, in partnership with Peregrine Coast Press, is set to launch Sidekick: The Video Games Mental Health Journal on July 15th. This innovative journal, available for order from Peregrine Coast Press, aims to provide gamers with a tangible resource for mental well-being.
Sidekick is designed as a fun and interactive journal filled with game-themed activities and prompts. Its primary goal is to offer a low-pressure approach to mental health, encouraging individuals to consider their mental well-being and engage in self-care as part of their daily routine.
Recent surveys have highlighted the need for such resources in the gaming community. One in five players who experienced online harassment reported feeling uncomfortable or upset after playing, while one in seven felt isolated or alone. Alarmingly, one in ten reported depressive or suicidal thoughts.
“Gaming can be a positive outlet for many individuals, but exposure to online harassment and harmful conduct in gaming spaces can negatively impact people’s mental health,” said Sky Tunley-Stainton, Partnerships & Training Manager at Safe In Our World. “With Sidekick, we aim to connect people with the games they love, providing a familiar resource for those in the gaming community who may need support for their mental health.”
To celebrate the launch of Sidekick, Safe In Our World is hosting a dedicated event at Barclay’s Eagle Lab in Brighton. Invitees will have the opportunity to explore Sidekick firsthand, relax, engage in creative activities, and take home self-care goody bags.
