wittle - Web Game and video series

CHALLENGE:
To create a visual tool for mental health professionals to use as a supplemental exercise to tackle depression through humour, story and gameplay in real therapeutic relationships.

TRANSFORMATION: 
With support from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), we created a pilot video series and game prototype featuring Canadian comedians talking about their real-life experiences with depression and its impact on their lives. Humour is a crucial element in the transmission of information about mental health. The highly accessible training game allows people to practice cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) skills and provides solutions to thought traps in the form of escape strategies; it communicates solutions in a uniquely approachable, enjoyable way to improve results.

RESULT:
Wittle takes testimonials and turns them into interactive play. The gameplay is easy to pick up and driven by casual, accessible game mechanics suitable for all ages. The experience has attracted interest from mental health professionals and people living with depression from across Canada and has demoed at various public events around Toronto.

Audience: Healthcare professionals and patients
Year: 2019