From AI-based chatbot apps to therapists on TikTok offering 60-second videos on subjects including trauma and perfectionism, it has never been easier to get advice on improving your mental health. Now, as tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons grow in popularity, some are looking to use them in therapeutic ways.

Game Therapy UK aims to encourage socially isolated groups, including people who are homeless, people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction and military veterans to play games as a means of working through personal challenges. The charity says the role-playing aspects of the sessions can improve social skills, help process trauma and enhance responsiveness to therapy. New Scientist joined a session in London to find out more.

How do we know that therapy works, and which kind is best for you?

Topics:

mental health