August Interactive, a pioneering force in the gaming industry, is thrilled to announce a partnership with TF-7294, a distinguished 501(c)(3), national non-profit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting veterans. This strategic collaboration aims to harness the power of gaming to transform mental health support for veterans, with a particular focus on fostering community and addressing critical issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS).
The partnership between August Interactive and TF-7294 represents a significant step forward in leveraging gaming as a tool for veteran support. By combining August Interactive's expertise in game development with TF-7294's deep understanding of veteran needs, this collaboration seeks to create innovative gaming experiences that not only entertain but also provide therapeutic benefits and foster a strong sense of community among veterans.
Recent research has highlighted the potential of video games in supporting mental health, particularly for veterans dealing with PTS, depression, and anxiety. Studies have shown that gaming can provide an immersive experience that helps distract from negative thoughts and reduce symptoms of mental health struggles.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has recognized video games as a complementary therapy for veterans with serious mental illness, offering a non-pharmaceutical approach to enhance care.
One of the key objectives of this partnership is to create gaming environments that foster connection and peer support among veterans. Online gaming communities have been shown to mirror the camaraderie experienced in military service, providing a crucial sense of belonging for veterans who often face isolation after leaving the service.
These communities offer a platform for veterans to connect, socialize, and form lasting friendships, which are essential for mental well-being.
The partnership will focus on developing games and gaming experiences that specifically address the mental health challenges faced by veterans. Research has demonstrated that certain game mechanics can help reduce intrusive memories and increase hippocampal volume, which is associated with a reduction in PTS symptoms.
By creating games that engage veterans with narratives that resonate with their experiences, this initiative aims to provide a form of therapeutic engagement in a controlled and familiar environment.
"We are honored to partner with an organization so committed to supporting veterans in their transitions and with their mental health. Their name, drawn from the 7,942 days between the 9/11 attacks and the departure of the last US soldier from Afghanistan, shows their commitment to supporting and bringing light to the real stories of those who served - during some of the most difficult times our nation has faced. We're proud to sponsor their mission to honor those who served."
- August Interactive CEO & Co-Founder Kristin Wood
"We are ecstatic to partner with August Interactive on this journey. As a consultant for an organization specializing in communication, leadership, and team building through a game-based curriculum, I have witnessed transformational changes in mood, engagement, and belonging within minutes. Gaming develops better problem-solving, perseverance, collaboration, and …connection. And isn't that what our lives are all about?"
- Heather Wells, SGM (USA Retired), TF-7294 Associate Director & CEO, WEN2K
August Interactive (www.augustinteractive.gg) is a leading force in the gaming industry, committed to creating innovative gaming experiences that not only entertain but also make a positive impact on players' lives. With this partnership, August Interactive reaffirms its dedication to leveraging the power of gaming for social good.
TF-7294 (www.tf7294.com/about) is a 501(c)(3), national non-profit charitable foundation with a mission deeply devoted to providing crucial resources and support to the intelligence community, with a particular focus on mental health and overall well-being.
This partnership between August Interactive and TF-7294 represents a significant step forward in recognizing and harnessing the potential of gaming as a tool for veteran support. By focusing on community building, mental health benefits, and innovative game development, this collaboration aims to create a new paradigm in veteran care and support.
For more details about this groundbreaking partnership or to schedule an interview with representatives from August Interactive or TF-7294, please contact: