On October 19th, headspace Joondalup hosted an exciting "Game On" event to celebrate Headspace Day, embracing this year’s theme of Pause, Reflect, Reconnect. Twenty-five young people joined us for an afternoon filled with gaming, delicious food, and prizes, making the event a huge success!

The gathering provided a chance to pause from daily stresses and immerse in a world of enjoyment, featuring video games such as Mario Kart, Drink More Glurp, and Super Smash Bros, along with a variety of board games. Our youth reference group chose gaming as the central theme because it serves as an excellent way to reflect on strategies and experiences in a safe and supportive setting, allowing young people to engage in both competitive and cooperative play.

We were excited to welcome Mike, the Nerd Therapist, as our special guest. He shared valuable insights regarding the mental health benefits of gaming, illustrating how certain games can enhance focus, encourage teamwork, and relieve stress. Mike’s presentation emphasised how gaming allows us to reconnect with ourselves and others, fostering resilience and promoting positive mental health practices. His exploration of the mental wellness aspects of various games resonated with attendees and sparked lively discussions.

Participants enjoyed pizza while having the opportunity to win exciting prizes, including EB Games vouchers, plush toys, and tote bags, which added to the excitement of the afternoon. The announcement of our new headspace Joondalup Dungeons & Dragons group was met with enthusiasm, promising even more ways to connect in the future.

Our "Game On" event showcased how gaming can support young individuals in pausing, reflecting, and reconnecting in a meaningful manner. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this headspace Day an unforgettable experience!