A U.K. web hosting and IT service provider is holding a video game marathon to support mental health awareness.
Today, Wiltshire-based Black Nova Designs announced that it will be holding a video game marathon on September 12 to raise money for MIND.
The event coincides with National Video Games Day.
MIND is a charity in England and Wales that offers mental health information and support services.
The charity started in 1946 as the National Association for Mental Health, later changing its name to MIND in 1972.
Black Nova Website Developer Steven Willis and IT Technician Dean Baker will join Director Kyle Holmes for a 24 hours of continuous gaming.
“Being a lifelong games, I know how much enjoyment you can get from playing video games,” says Holmes. “Either playing alone or with friends, it can give you a real sense of achievement, boost your self-esteem, and it can put a smile on your face. Linking up with your friends to chat while playing can also really help to combat stress and loneliness. It can be a really fun way to relax.”
Gaming for Mental Health
During the 24-hour event, the team will raise money for MIND while showing how gaming can benefit mental health and wellbeing.
Black Nova says research has demonstrated that video games can improve memory, coordination, social skills, and mood.
During the event, Holmes will play Call of Duty: Warzone, ARC, PUBG, Arma3, Unreal Tournament, Command & Conquer, Escape from Tarkov, and Satisfactory.
Willis will play Call of Duty: Warzone, ARC, PUBG, Escape from Tarkov, and Satisfactory.
Baker will play Call of Duty: Warzone, PUBG, NHL 22, Apex Legends, League of Legends, Overwatch, World of Warships, and Rainbow 6 Siege.
“I know how much gaming has helped me,” says Holmes. “And the idea of the livestream event was to not only raise money for a great charity, but to give others an insight into the fun the three of us have while gaming.”
The team will stream the event live on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitch from 11:59 p.m. (BST) on September 11 to 11:29 p.m. on September 12.
Each platform will have a direct link for people who wish to donate to MIND.