Presented by Take This' Senior Researcher, Dr. Elizabeth Kilmer, PhD.

Layoffs are major stressor in the game industry today, leading to higher levels of distress for both those seeking work and those taking on increased workloads due to reductions in staff. Burnout is a common outcome of these increased stress levels, reducing the motivation and productivity of even the most experienced game developers.

Addressing systemic causes of burnout such as layoffs and industry instability may seem insurmountable, but research has shown there are steps individuals can take to improve their own sustainability in the face of these challenges. Drawing on the most current research, this workshop will equip all developers, especially those impacted by layoffs, with the knowledge, skills, and best practices to tackle burnout.

This is a free event with a suggested donation of $10. We welcome your support of Take This, but we also don't want cost to be a barrier, so please pay what you're able.

Elizabeth Kilmer, PhD (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist and a qualitative researcher in game studies for Take This, focused on developing resources to help the games industry combat extremism in gaming spaces. In addition to her work with Take This, Dr. Kilmer is passionate about research and education in applied gaming, has trained hundreds of individuals in the use of therapeutically applied role-playing games, and co-authored the book Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games: The Game to Grow Method. In her clinical practice, Dr. Kilmer uses games like D&D, Minecraft, and Animal Crossing to support insight, growth, and change with her clients. Her clinical areas of specialty include trauma, substance use, neurodivergence, and psychological assessment.

Take This is a mental health advocacy organization with a focus on the game industry and community. We provide resources, training, and support individuals and companies that help the gaming community improve its mental well-being and resilience. The organization addresses the underlying conditions that can create and perpetuate mental health challenges: stigma, harmful studio culture, harassment and toxicity, lack of diversity and accessibility, and problematic game and community design.

Sustainable Design(ers): Managing Burnout for Game Devs

A Take This Talks workshop for game developers impacted by lay offs and instability in the industry.