Wellbeing Team

The Magic of Adventure

Last term we explored the possibility of "Therapeutic Gaming" as a tier two intervention. With the popularity of Stranger Things and a resurgence of table top game playing like Dungeons and Dragons, research has come out around the benefits of playing these types of dice based role playing games when trained therapists are involved. So, what can be achieved and how are we trying to weave in the research?

Table Top Role Playing games allow for students to create characters and explore qualities and scenarios that they want to explore about themselves, through the character. With the support of a mental health clinician the characters can trial scenarios that students are concerned about in real life with very low stakes. 

We've created games tailored to our students that challenge them to collaborate as a team, problem solve, communicate in whichever style they prefer, and demonstrate encouragement, kindness, and friendship building skills. The goal is that students feel the club is a safe space where their wins are celebrated, challenges are faced as a team, and team bonds are created. 

We spend lots of time in character development where students choose the strengths of their characters, their personalites, their goals, and decide what their character's back stories and challenges may be. It's a lot of fun! 

Last week we created an "escape room" style mystery where students found clues around the CLH. With different games and clues to find, each student was able to solve a part of the case whether it was finding the invisible ink messages, hidden safes, or fishing for clues! They solved the "Case of the Missing Goose" and returned Gary to his rightful place in the therapy room. This nerd was in her element and had as much fun as the students :) 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11299717/

Available Support Services

EAP

A free and short term service delivered for the DE through an independent provider. It is strictly confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Department of Education employees and immediate family members 18+ years. You can get up to 4 free sessions about personal or work related issues.

1300 361 008

Beyond Blue

This is a free 24/7 telephone and online counselling service available for everyone in Australia.

1300 224 636

Discussion with GP and development of a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP)

Book a ‘longer’ appointment with your GP to discuss the option to develop a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

For information about MHTPs please use the link or QR code below.

If you would like any more information regarding some available support services, please reach out to the Wellbeing Team.