The Victorian Government Is Using Video Games To Tackle The Mental Health Of Young Job Seekers

The Victorian Government Is Using Video Games To Tackle The Mental Health Of Young Job Seekers

Looking for work can really take its toll on your mental health, and for young Aussies, it can be particularly tough.

So the Victorian Government is turning to games for help.

[referenced url=”https://gizmodo.com.au/2017/07/socialising-mental-health-and-stress-relief-why-aussies-play-video-games/” thumb=”https://gizmodo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/xbox-controller-410×231.jpg” title=”Socialising, Mental Health And Stress Relief: Why Aussies Play Video Games” excerpt=”Kids and adults, young and old, for recreation and for rehabilitation – video games are now firmly cemented into the daily lives of Australians, with new research showing 67 per cent of us are gaming.

Smashing the stereotype of “mindless fun”, video games are increasingly turned to as a way to stimulate, socialise and positively benefit mental health.”]

Tomorrow Me is a mobile game “experience” to help young people transition from education to full time or secure employment.

Vic Health says it is designed to “counter the negative impact increased competition and an uncertain work future is having on young Victorians’ mental wellbeing”.

“We know that gamification has been used effectively to tackle other health and social issues such as getting people to exercise, tackling bullying and goal setting.” said icHealth CEO Jerril Rechter.

Tomorrow Me is about supporting young people to develop resilience so they can survive and thrive in the job market of the future.”

So here’s the facts:

One in three adults aged 18-24 are looking for more work.

It takes the average student graduating from full-time study 4.7 years to secure full-time employment, compared to just one year in 1986.

Young Australians are particularly at risk of being exposed to poor working conditions such as low job control, low job security and high demands.

42 per cent of young workers are exposed to at least one job stressor, and stress has been found to be the strongest link to mental health issues in young people.

Victorian Minister for Mental Health, Martin Foley, said young people are facing a more volatile work future than previous generations.

“The rise of automation, casualisation and globalisation is impacting young people and their mental wellbeing – particularly as they enter the workforce after finishing their studies,” Minister Foley said.

“Almost 75 per cent of mental illness begins before 25 years of age, so it’s crucial we work to build resilience and prevent mental health issues before they occur.”

Foley says this project is about equipping young people with the resilience to cope with the ups and downs of daily life and prepare for their working life, in an unpredictable environment.

Yes – addressing the actual problem, is probably a bigger priority, here , but the benefits of video games for mental health have been shown time and time again. Creative approaches and techniques, like those employed by digital games, could have a powerful impact on developing skills, confidence and self-esteem.

You can find out more about the game right here Vic Health

[referenced url=”https://gizmodo.com.au/2016/10/10-of-the-best-mobile-games-to-help-with-anxiety/” thumb=”https://gizmodo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/anxiety-woman-410×231.jpg” title=”10 Of The Best Mobile Games To Help With Anxiety” excerpt=”Anxiety can be crippling, persistent and affect anyone at any point in their lives. Whilst the treatment that works best can differ greatly from person to person, there is much to be said for the therapeutic benefits of play — and this includes video games.

This where your smartphone can be a lifeline. Whilst not a substitute for professional advice, therapy or medication; games can be an accessible, portable way to supplement treatment. With today being World Mental Health Day, we thought we’d highlight ten of the best games for assisting with anxiety treatment and symptoms.”]


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