Technology and video games could be the answer to lackluster mental health support for young, marginalized communities. According to Wired, “Black children between the ages of 5 and 12 are more than twice as likely to die by suicide” in comparison to their White peers. Leading mental health advocates like the former president and COO of the Jed Foundation, Rebecca Benghiat, believe curbing emotional health issues can be achieved by meeting young people where they frequent: digital spaces. Fostering inclusive spaces where data is protected and psychological safety is prioritized could give youth the tools to navigate challenging mental health issues. Today, suicide is the leading cause of death amongst youth aged 10-24-years-old, and experts like Benghiat argue that schools continue to take a lackluster approach to providing mental health support. Online communities have become safe havens for young people, and video games like the indie psychological-horror game Cat Lady and Minecraft servers are giving them the tools to navigate and discuss their mental health struggles. YPulse’s upcoming Gaming report data shows that nearly half of young people of color say they play video games to relax / wind down and as a stress reliever. (Wired)
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