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March 9-13, 2026
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Agenda

The State of Mental Health in the Games Industry

Kelli Dunlap  (Executive Director, Take This, Inc.)
Elizabeth Kilmer  (Clinical Psychologist, Respec Psychological Services)
Location: Room 2018, West Hall
Date: Thursday, March 12
Time: 11:50 am - 12:20 pm
Pass Type: Festival Pass, Game Changer Pass - Get your pass now!
Audience Level: All
Track: Culture & Sustainability
Format: Lecture
Vault Recording: Video
Audience Level: All

Let's talk about what's really going on with mental health in the game industry. This panel will share findings from the 2025 Mental Health in the Game Industry study, debuting at GDC 2026. Built by mental health experts who understand game dev, the study digs into what's stressing developers out, what support actually helps, and where studios are falling short. We'll share findings from the study, break down the data, and offer practical, no-fluff recommendations for making studios healthier, more supportive places to work.

Takeaway

Attendees gain valuable insight into the current state of mental health in the game industry. The session provides practical, research-backed strategies to help create a healthier, more supportive environment for game developers.

Intended Audience

This presentation is for those passionate about improving mental health in the game development industry. It offers practical steps to support developers' well-being, addresses key challenges faced by studios and individuals, and provides actionable strategies to foster a healthier, more sustainable work environment.