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Watch: PTSD and video games

Low Batteries episode 3.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is a multifaceted mental disorder that doesn't seem to get discussed very often; oftentimes it seems like one of those things that only happens to other people.

However, video games are full of people suffering from PTSD - even if those people are largely undiagnosed by merit of being fictional characters. In the third episode of Low Batteries, our series on games and mental health, I decided to look at the portrayal of PTSD in video games and ask whether it's really helping raise awareness, or if it's using a complex mental disorder as a convenient plot device.

You can watch the episode below. Please feel free to suggest topics for future episodes in the comments.

Cover image for YouTube videoPTSD in video games - Low Batteries

If you think you or someone you know may be suffering, please don't do it in silence.

In the UK:

You can call the Rethink advice and information service on 0300 5000 927 (10am-1pm).

Also the Depression Alliance, a charity, has a network of self-help groups.

Samaritans offers a 24-hour confidential helpline: 116 123

In the US:

You can call the Crisis Call Center on 1-800-273-8255 at any time of the day.

If you're more comfortable talking via text than on the phone, 7cupsoftea.com offers an anonymous chat service.