About the InnerWorlds Project

Our dedication to better mental health among Adolescents

A Game-Changing Approach to Youth Mental Health

The mental well-being of young people is facing a global challenge. Adolescents today often struggle to understand or address their mental health concerns, and many feel hesitant to seek help due to privacy worries or the stigma surrounding these issues. This is a critical gap, and it's why the "InnerWorlds" project was created. We believe that by reaching young people where they are – in the digital world – we can empower them with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate their emotional landscapes and build resilience.

What is InnerWorlds

InnerWorlds is an exciting and engaging mobile video game designed specifically for young people, aged 12 to 18. But it's more than just a game; it's a unique tool developed to promote mental health in a fun and accessible way. Through interactive gameplay, InnerWorlds aims to help players:

• Understand mental health: Learn about key mental health concepts and emotions in a way that resonates with their experiences.

• Self-awareness: Develop the ability to recognize their own feelings and early signs of mental health challenges.

• Build resilience: Practice coping mechanisms and strategies to manage stress and overcome difficulties in a safe, virtual environment.

• Find support: Provide a confidential and user-friendly way for adolescents to self-report concerns and know where to find help if they need it.

The game is being developed with significant input from young people themselves, ensuring it's not only scientifically sound but also genuinely engaging and relevant to their lives.

Beyond the Game

InnerWorlds isn't just about the mobile game. Together with the partners and pedagogues and psychologists working at a grass root level in the partner countries, we are also creating a wealth of free educational materials that go hand-in-hand with the game. These "Open Educational Resources" will be available online for young people, parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to learn more about supporting youth mental health. Our goal is to equip entire communities with the knowledge and skills to foster supportive environments and open conversations around mental well-being.

A Collaborative Effort

This project is a collaborative effort by a dedicated team of universities and non-profit organizations from across Europe. Experts in technology, psychology, and education are working together to ensure that InnerWorlds offers a blend of cutting-edge research and practical application. This diverse partnership ensures the project's solutions are well-rounded and effective for a wide range of young people, including those from marginalized communities.

Our Hope for the Future

The InnerWorlds project seeks to make a lasting impact on the mental health of young people. By providing accessible tools and resources, we aim to help adolescents develop crucial life skills - from managing stress to recognizing when to seek help. Our vision is to contribute to a future where mental health is openly discussed, understood, and supported, leading to improved well-being, better social interactions, and a more positive environment for all young people. All project results, including the game and educational materials, will be freely available to anyone interested in using them to promote resilience and well-being.