We know that gaming can help us to create connections with others, feel a sense of social inclusion and even make up a big part of a person’s community. It’s normal and healthy for young people to participate in games (including gaming) as part of their daily routines and, like anything, gaming can impact upon our wellbeing in a variety of ways.
We want wellbeing to be at the centre of every person’s gaming experience and for people to engage in gaming as a way of supporting healthy routines and connections. Beyond developing healthy gaming habits, we want players to be well-rounded digital citizens who actively look after their mental health and wellbeing.
In partnership with headspace, we aim to increase healthy participation in gaming and support our users to lead fulfilling, successful lives.
headspace partnership
headspace, National Youth Mental Health Organisation, offers mental health support to young people aged 12 to 25. In 2018, we began a partnership with headspace to promote mental health awareness among League of Legends players, kicking off initiatives like the Oceanic Pro League (OPL) headspace round.
We’ve since continued to work closely with headspace on things like the League of Legends learning initiative as part of our commitment to mental health and wellbeing.
Encouraging healthy habits
Through League of Legends, young people can build healthy habits to look after their mental health as they learn and play together. A large part of the learning initiative focuses on supporting young people as they develop strategies to respond to adversity, reduce the impact of bullying, and demonstrate appropriate online behaviour.
Resources
The headspace website contains essential information on mental health and wellbeing. If you or someone else is in need of immediate support or medical assistance, contact one of these services:
Australia
Emergency Services – 000
Lifeline – 13 11 14
Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
New Zealand
Emergency Services – 111
Lifeline – 0800 534 354
Youthline – Free call 0800 37 66 33, Free text – 234, Email: talk@youthline.co.nz
“The Alannah & Madeline Foundation is passionate about creating safe online environments for young people. By bringing gaming to schools through clubs, we hope that teachers can set examples of fair play and guide discussions to create positive and healthy behaviour in students.
