«The importance of talking about mental health with the Tibia Community»

Hello Tibians! Today is a special day, and not just because teasers for the upcoming winter update, which seem to bring an incredible amount of promising surprises, have started to appear. It’s also World Mental Health Day, a day when we can take a moment to reflect on our own mental health and that of our fellow gamers. That’s why I decided to prepare this article for you with tips and facts about online mental health, as well as advice on addressing different perspectives on it from a positive and understanding standpoint. My father used to say, «Knowledge is power» and it’s something I’m passionate about sharing with you—some of the knowledge I’ve been gathering over the years regarding my own mental health, how important it is for my Tibia experience, and how you can make your online time more fruitful, satisfying, and enjoyable.

Tibia as Therapy: A Refuge for Anxiety and Depression

It’s no secret that Tibia, like other online games, can be a kind of refuge for those of us who battle anxiety and depression. According to recent statistics, approximately 21% of online video game players use games as a form of therapy or an escape from daily stresses (source: Entertainment Software Association, 2021). That’s why, for many people (including myself), Tibia has become a healthy escape, a place where we can disconnect from real-world worries.

Immersing ourselves in the game, spending time with friends, decorating, defeating bosses, hunting, or engaging in any other activity provides a sense of satisfaction and happiness that can often be challenging to find elsewhere. And I know that many Tibians feel the same way, making the game an aspect of our lives we’ll always want to return to.

While games can be beneficial as a form of therapy, they should not replace professional help if you’re dealing with serious mental health issues. Although the support and camaraderie found in the Tibian community can be a valuable complement to your emotional well-being, remember it’s essential to seek help from a trusted person. At TibiaGirls, we’re not only building an empathetic community, but we’re also providing a space where some may find relief for their personal challenges.

Our goal is to continue being a support for you, to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported. Content creation is something that has brought me many satisfactions and has also allowed me to use an online resource as a «therapeutic hobby.» Therefore, I’ve understood that when something isn’t adding value, helping me de-stress, or providing satisfying feelings, it’s time to take a break, look for other methods, and perhaps start therapy, something I’m not a big fan of but has allowed me to get to know myself better and understand others better. Consuming information about mental health is also a great way to better understand our processes and analyze the signals our body and mind may be giving us but that are going unnoticed.

Seeking Help Is Not a Sign of Weakness

First and foremost, I want you to understand that literally, seeking help is not a sign of weakness, far from it! If you ever feel like you’re struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress, talking about it doesn’t make you more vulnerable. On the contrary, it takes a lot of strength to face a problem head-on and seek a resolution, especially when it’s something as personal and vulnerable as addressing our mental health. Whether it’s with a friend, a family member, or a healthcare professional, seeking support is the first step toward feeling better.

In Tibia, you can find friends who are willing to listen. Sometimes, sharing your concerns can be the first step in relieving the emotional burden. If you feel the need for professional help, don’t hesitate to seek it.

Confronting Online Bullying.

Bullying can be a real problem in online games, and Tibia is no exception. If you witness someone being bullied, don’t ignore it. Use the tools at your disposal to prevent the situation from escalating (reporting within the game or using CipSoft’s official channels to file more specific reports, Support@tibia.com is their official CM reach point). Offer support to the affected person. We all deserve to play in a safe and enjoyable environment. If you ever become the target of online bullying, my best advice is not to waste time; block communication with people causing you trouble and talk to trusted friends about what you’re experiencing. You’re never alone in this community.

Remember that we all who play Tibia have our own personalities, problems, opinions, and different criteria. Everyone’s mental health is equally valuable, so consider respecting others and yourself before acting in ways you might regret later. We are human beings; take the time to consider your actions before saying or doing something you might regret.

Being a Support for Someone in Times of Need

Sometimes, our friends may be going through tough times, and it’s important to be there for them. If someone in Tibia trusts you enough to share their mental health problems, listen to them without judging, mocking, or spreading comments about what your friends confided in you. Sometimes, simply having someone who listens can make all the difference.

Encourage them to seek professional help if needed and offer your support during their recovery process. Small acts of kindness can have a huge impact.

Promoting Empathy in the Tibia Community

Being empathetic is key to making our community more welcoming. When you play with others, remember that behind those characters are people with emotions and lives outside the game. Treat others with respect and understanding, even if you disagree with them.

If you see someone struggling in the game, instead of mocking them, offer help and constructive advice. Doing so can turn a frustrating moment into a learning opportunity and strengthen bonds in the community.

Taking Care of Our Mental Health Online.

For those of us who grew up with Tibia, we know how easy it is to become completely immersed in the game and lose sight of many things happening in our daily lives. Many of us, if not most, are now adults who have learned to manage our time better and understand the place that recreational activities hold in our lives. Most of us have realized that Tibia is a game, and as such, the time we invest in it should not interfere with other aspects of our lives, such as studies, family, work, and even other hobbies that help us stay healthy.

To take care of our mental health online, the most important thing is to establish healthy boundaries. Make sure to take regular breaks to stretch, hydrate, and rest. Don’t feel pressured to be available for the game all the time; prioritizing your emotional and physical well-being is essential. Also, remember that social media and forums can be places where negative opinions can surface. Don’t get caught up in negativity; instead, focus on positive interactions and building enriching relationships in the community. Mental health is a treasure, even in the virtual world, and we must protect it with the same care we dedicate to our Tibia characters.

Together, We Create a Healthy Community.

World Mental Health Day is a perfect opportunity to reflect on how to take care of ourselves and others. It’s time for us to continue growing as a community and supporting each other. Being a bully or being toxic is no longer in fashion. It’s time to learn to confront issues with respect and not contribute to more toxicity, which ultimately is wasted energy with no productive outcome.

So, have fun in Tibia, and always remember to take care of your mental health and that of your friends!

Happy World Mental Health Day! 🌟

Here are some resources you can use in times of need:

-Helpline: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org) provides 24/7 support for individuals in the United States who may be experiencing a mental health crisis. Trained counselors are available to listen and offer assistance to those in need.

-Online Newsletter: «Psychology Today» (www.psychologytoday.com) features an online publication that covers a wide range of mental health and psychology topics. You can subscribe to their newsletter to receive articles, advice, and the latest insights in the field of mental health.

-Website: «Wondermind» (www.wondermind.com) is a reputable online platform that offers a wealth of resources and information related to mental health and well-being. Their website includes articles, self-help tools, and a supportive community, making it a valuable resource for individuals seeking guidance on mental health matters.