- Music & Mental Health
Your song
is
always
worth playing.
Music has long carried the weight of our deepest emotions — the joy, the grief, the uncertainty. It connects us, heals us, and reminds us we are never alone. Meet the artists who are speaking up.
11.4%
of music industry professionals reported suicidal ideation in the past year — more than double the general population rate
(MusiCares 2025 Wellness in Music Survey)
3×
more likely — musicians may be up to three times more likely to experience depression compared to the general population
(MusiCares 2025 Wellness in Music Survey)
741741
Text HOPELINE™ to this number — free, confidential crisis support anytime, anywhere, about any challenge or struggle
Why Video Games?
Research from the NDP Group and University of California, San Diego (UCSD) has shown that certain video games can help reduce sadness, pain, boredom, anxiety, and hyperactivity, while enhancing focus and cognitive engagement.
Gaming is more than fun - it's a proven tool for healing and connection, helping individuals of all ages find calm, focus, and purpose.
Note: Virtual reality (VR) games are currently not recommended for children under age 12.
Why it matters
Music is a
language of healing.
From humming a melody in a difficult moment to writing lyrics that voice what words alone cannot — music is a powerful tool in the mental health journey.
About us title
Games That Support Wellbeing
Games preloaded onto each Nintendo Switch are thoughtfully chosen to help:
- Reduce stress and promote calmness
- Encourage mindfulness and emotional regulation
- Improve focus and hand-eye coordination
- Foster teamwork and social connection
- Provide healthy, positive mental stimulation
Current Program Partners
These schools and organizations currently use Preloaded Nintendo Switches to support their students and communities:
- Kaukauna High School - 3 consoles
- Neenah Police Department - 2 consoles (Elementary & Middle School)
- Menasha Police Department - 1 console (Middle School)
- YMCA - 5 consoles (Suamico & Green Bay locations)
- Gibraltar Sheriff's Office - 1 console
- Howe Community Resource Center, Green Bay - 1 console
- Brown County Shelter Care, Green Bay - 1 Console
- St. Norbert College Wellness Center, DePere - 1 Console
- Synergy Sports Performance, Hobart - 1 Console
- Ashwaubenon Public Safety - 1 Console (High School)
- Florida National Guard -1 console
Together, these partners are using gaming to promote calm, connection, and emotional growth.
Testimonials & Impact Stories
School Resource Officer
"The other day the social worker wasn't available and the student was having a panic attack. I went over with the Switch and used the feather game to help the student calm down - and it worked!"
- School Resource Officer
Local School Resource Officer
"When tensions rise, offering a moment to play a game can redirect focus, calm emotions, and provide a much-needed break from stress.
The Switch has enhanced my ability to connect with students, especially those with emotional or behavioral disorders. It's transformed interactions, making our school safer and more cohesive."
- Local School Resource Officer
Local Patrol
Officer
"I've been able to use the Nintendo Switch to de-escalate students in crisis on several occasions. It's amazing how quickly a student can calm down - what used to take an hour now takes minutes.
I also use it as a reward for good behavior. Though I'm no longer undefeated in Mario Kart, it's worth it!"
- Local Patrol Officer
Shelter Care - Green Bay
"The Switch has become a meaningful tool to help our youth regulate emotions and behaviors. It offers a structured way to redirect feelings and regain control.
It's more than a game - it's a therapeutic tool that builds trust, confidence, and moments of joy during their stay."
- Shelter Care Staff, Green Bay
YMCA - Suamico & Green Bay
"eGaming at the Y is fostering teamwork, productivity, and positive social interaction. These setups have created a safe space where participants collaborate, compete, and grow together.
This program has become a powerful pathway for youth engagement and life skill development."
- YMCA Green Bay Leadership Team
Middle School SRO
"One student who didn't trust law enforcement started stopping by my office after seeing the Switch. We played Mario Kart together, and that built a relationship that allowed him to open up and regulate his emotions.
That connection started because of the Nintendo Switch."
- School Officer, Local Middle School SRO
Get Involved
Interested in donating a Nintendo Switch, sponsoring a Preloaded Kit, or learning more about the impact of gaming on mental health?
