A growing number of video game players are facing addiction issues, leading some governments to take the issue more seriously. Given the industry’s success during the pandemic, people want to see gaming balance its innovation and releases with efforts to reduce the prevalence of addiction.

Social media giants have been repeatedly criticised for their harmful impacts on users' mental health. But TikTok’s updated suite of features, which are designed to support users who experience various mental health issues, may rewrite the entire industry.

Video games may conjure up imagery of ultra-fantasy but can these play a positive role in mental health? Canvas8 spoke to Joe Donnelly, author of Checkpoint: How Video Games Power Up Minds, Kick Ass, and Save Lives, to understand the benefits of gaming that transcend entertainment.

As people around the world wrestle with the impact of COVID-19 on their mental health, therapy and helpful apps are being sought out by people looking for support. Tackling the stigma of open conversations about mental health, Intellect is a Singapore-based app pushing for positive change.