The role of a Community Manager (CM) in the dynamic and often intense gaming industry is frequently characterized by relentless demands, balancing player expectations with developer objectives, and navigating a landscape rife with both passionate engagement and potential toxicity. Recognizing the significant mental health toll these pressures can take, a vital new initiative is rolling out to provide crucial support. Mental health charity Safe in Our World has launched a series of free mental health awareness workshops specifically designed for community managers and developers supporting their communities, aiming to equip them with essential tools for well-being and online safety.
The Unique Pressures on Gaming Community Managers
Community managers operate at the forefront of player interaction, serving as the direct link between game developers and their fervent player bases. This unique position, while rewarding, comes with a distinct set of challenges that can heavily impact mental well-being. From moderating vast online forums and social media channels to managing player feedback and addressing crises, CMs are often exposed to a continuous stream of opinions, criticisms, and even harassment.
The “limitless” nature of the Community Manager role, as described by Andy Barker of Mind Fitness, means that without clear frameworks and established expectations, the internal and external demands can become overwhelming. This constant exposure to online negativity, coupled with the pressure to be constantly “on” and available, significantly increases the risk of occupational burnout, stress, and other mental health issues. Many community managers struggle with setting effective boundaries, leading to an erosion of personal time and mental space.
Safe in Our World’s Proactive Initiative
In a commendable move to address these pressing concerns, Safe in Our World, a mental health charity dedicated to fostering awareness throughout the video game industry, is offering free mental health awareness workshops. These sessions are tailored specifically for community managers and other individuals in player-facing roles or those responsible for community well-being. Supported by gaming publisher Humble and facilitated by mental health training specialists Mind Fitness, these bespoke three-hour workshops mark a significant step towards prioritizing the mental health of an often-overlooked segment of the industry.
What the Workshops Cover
The comprehensive curriculum of these workshops is designed to arm participants with practical knowledge and actionable strategies. Key areas covered include:
- Increasing Online Safety and Well-being: Strategies to create and maintain healthier online environments for both communities and the managers themselves.
- Knowledge of Mental Ill-Health: Enhancing understanding of various mental health conditions and their indicators.
- Confidence in Signposting Resources: Equipping CMs with the ability to effectively direct players and colleagues to appropriate mental health support and resources.
- Stress Identification and Management: Tools and techniques to recognize and cope with stress, a pervasive issue in demanding online roles.
- Establishing Healthy Boundaries Online: Crucial guidance on how to define and maintain personal and professional boundaries in an always-on digital world, helping CMs “switch off when they’re off the clock.”
- Developing Emotional Intelligence: Insights into understanding and managing one’s own emotions and those of others within the community.
- Responding to Mental Health Emergencies: Guidance on what steps to take when faced with a mental health emergency.
Expert Insight and Testimonials
Andy Barker of Mind Fitness underscores the necessity of these programs, stating, “We must provide CMs with the tools to look after their own well-being, by giving them the knowledge and confidence to signpost players to resources, and switch off when they’re off the clock.”
Em Aspinall, a communications and events manager, who previously benefited from similar training, highly recommends the workshops. She reflects on her own journey: “It’s wild to think I started my mental health awareness journey doing this training with Mind Fitness and Safe In Our World back in 2021, when I was a fledgling community manager… I’d recommend this workshop to any CM or anyone in a player-facing role. Or just anyone in games, really.” Her experience highlights the long-term positive impact such training can have on an individual’s career and personal well-being.
Fostering a Healthier Gaming Ecosystem
These workshops contribute to a growing movement within the gaming industry to prioritize mental health. Beyond specific roles, the broader gaming community has seen an increase in grassroots movements, peer support groups, and initiatives like “Gamers for Mental Health” that aim to destigmatize mental health discussions and promote self-care. Major gaming companies and organizations are increasingly recognizing their responsibility to make mental health action a foundational part of the gaming experience, both for players and the professionals who serve them.
By empowering community managers with mental health awareness and coping strategies, the industry can create more sustainable and empathetic work environments. Healthy CMs are better equipped to foster positive community spaces, address issues constructively, and ultimately contribute to a more inclusive and supportive gaming culture. This ripple effect benefits not only the individuals in these demanding roles but also the millions of players they engage with daily.
How to Participate and Support
The initial sessions for these free mental health awareness workshops are scheduled for October 9 and November 6, 2025. Interested community managers and other relevant professionals are encouraged to register via Eventbrite. This initiative by Safe in Our World, with the support of Humble and Mind Fitness, represents a significant investment in the well-being of the gaming industry’s frontline personnel.
The success and expansion of such programs depend on continued industry recognition and participation. By investing in the mental health of its community managers, the gaming industry reinforces its commitment to creating not just engaging games, but also healthy and thriving communities both online and behind the scenes.
