Cloud 9 and health care provider Kaiser Permanente are teaming up for a partnership to launch a mental health campaign called ‘Presence of Mind’ that will use gaming (and likely streaming) to connect with young adults and youth to talk about mental health and wellness.
Per their partnership, mental health experts and clinicians from Kaiser Permanente will work with Cloud9’s athletes, coaches, and staff on efforts to open dialogue and conversation platforms within the community.
“Our goal is that Presence of Mind will contribute to a public health movement within esports by engaging teens, young adults, and other gamers in mental health conversations” Don Mordecai, National Leader for Mental and Behavioral Health at Kaiser Permanente said, via a press release. “The need is even more critical in this period of stress and physical isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Members of the esports community, with Cloud9 leading the way, can support each other’s mental health while also supporting their own well-being and resilience now and long into the future.”
“Partnering with Kaiser Permanente allows us to shine a spotlight on the importance of mental health and wellness in our community, and to set an example for everyone in our industry” Jack Etienne, Founder and CEO of Cloud9 stated. “Gaming and esports is a refuge for so many during this pandemic, and we want our fans and our players at their healthiest, both mentally and physically.”
