03/11/2026
This , we're highlighting the vital role youth work plays in supporting young people's mental health and wellbeing.
At Wishaw YMCA Esports Academy, we recognise that good mental health is supported by positive relationships, a sense of belonging, opportunities to succeed and having people you can turn to.
Through gaming and esports, we create safe, inclusive spaces where young people can:
💙 Build friendships and meaningful connections, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation.
🤝 Develop confidence, resilience and self-esteem through teamwork, shared challenges and achievements.
💬 Build trusted relationships with youth workers, creating opportunities for conversations, encouragement and support.
🌱 Feel valued, included and empowered to make choices, express themselves and develop at their own pace.
Our work is rooted in youth work principles, using activities young people genuinely enjoy to support their personal, social and emotional wellbeing.
Through initiatives like Reset & Respawn, we build on this approach by creating dedicated spaces for social connection, relaxation and wellbeing.
Supporting young people's mental health isn't always about having conversations about mental health. It's about creating environments where young people feel safe, connected, valued and supported.
And sometimes, gaming is what makes those connections possible. 🎮💙
