Video games have come a long way as a storytelling medium. In the past, video games didn’t tell as many nuanced stories, but modern games can touch on complex subjects in unique ways. Mental health issues are something that millions of people can relate to. Depression and anxiety have become something that more people are comfortable discussing in recent decades, and this has also led to video games addressing mental health issues in various ways.
Keep reading to see some of the more interesting games that have dealt with mental health topics. This is meant to shine a light on some of the games that deal with mental health in a mature and understanding fashion. There are certainly many games that talk about mental health in some fashion, but not every title gets it right. These examples help to show what can be done when people approach mental health topics from an empathetic angle, and these games can even be used to raise awareness.
Celeste
Celeste is a game that is all about the main character climbing a mountain and overcoming challenges. The main character is overcoming her issues with depression and anxiety as you progress through the game. It’s a game that shows people how daunting mental health issues can be. You’ll also see that it’s possible to make it through tough times when you have the right techniques at your disposal.
Limbo
Another game that deals with depression in a very artistic way is Limbo. This game is a relatively short puzzle-platformer that sees you playing as a boy in a dark world that is full of danger. You need to navigate the boy through various challenges so that he can reach someone that he loves at the end. It’s a game that is all about depression, how difficult it can be to navigate life alone, and what it’s like to feel grief.
Night in the Woods
Night in the Woods is one of the most artistically interesting games to come out in the last five years or so. The people in this game are all animals, but their personalities and struggles are distinctly human. The protagonist of the game, Mae, is returning to her hometown after a failed attempt at going to college. She reconnects with old friends while also uncovering a very peculiar mystery in the town.
What stands out in this game is the way that the characters feel so real. Mae is a character that is going through a tough time in her life, and she has many of the same anxieties that young adults have when they’re trying to find their way in the world. If you’re looking for a game that treats mental health issues respectfully, then you should play Night in the Woods. It isn’t a game that everyone is going to find to be fun, but it could be a valuable experience for someone who is going through life changes.
Depression Quest
Depression Quest is the one game on the list that is completely upfront about the fact that it’s about mental health. While the other games on the list may have used metaphors, this game is actually about how depression can make it tougher to get through your daily life. It’s a unique type of game where you play as an individual that is living with depression, and it can help people who aren’t depressed to understand what it’s like. Some games are great because they’re relatable, but this game is intriguing because it has the potential to open eyes.
Remember That Help is Available
Mental health issues aren’t uncommon at all, and you’ll find that many people have a hard time understanding their feelings. You might even meet someone and have strange feelings for no apparent reason. Click here to learn more about why this can occur. Whether you’re going through a bout of depression or if you’re feeling anxious, it’s going to be easier to cope when you have help.
Going through mental health issues alone will always be very tough. Remember that you aren’t alone and that there are professionals out there who can help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor when you’re depressed or anxious. There are many ways that you can help to turn things around, and you can overcome what you’re going through much like the characters in the video games mentioned above.
