# Gamifies Getting Through Winter with New Seasonal Depression Battle Pass
This year’s release of* the popular "Seasonal Depression" franchise comes with an intriguing new feature: a full-fledged battle pass filled with daily challenges designed to help users earn rewards for completing mundane tasks.
"Since taking on this new role, my focus has been on ensuring we provide the best experience to our most dedicated sufferers," the former game developer explained. "So far we've learned, for there to be a greater sense of accomplishment, it needs to be more about engaging, and not just enduring.
"With this new paid model, fans have the option to earn what they would have previously received for free, allowing them to feel better about themselves and their daily struggles by completing daily challenges. We feel this will be met with overwhelming positivity and no backlash whatsoever."
Some of the more promising tiers offer rewards for simple, everyday activities. There’s a sticker for drinking water, a "Like" on social media for showering, priority access to phone calls from mom for "working."
Even "enjoying any of your favorite hobbies" unlocks rewards like a late-night Taco Bell run.
To be honest, I'm more of a fan of their 'Clinical' series, but I'm definitely enjoying this year’s release so far," one enthusiastic gamer remarked, adding, "I went to my mom’s for Thanksgiving and managed not to cry alone in my apartment afterward, so I got this sick new feeling that I can't quite describe. And I’m getting really close to finishing the 'wake up before two o’clock' tier,
but you have to actually get out of bed for it to count, and I just… can’t sometimes… you know? But yeah, I think more people should totally check it out.”
Reactions have been mixed. Dr. Aymahl Gewd, head of the
Mental Health Awareness Association, shared this take:
"Despite some of my patients calling this new practice a 'major win,' we would not officially endorse it as a legitimate form of mental health treatment. Though some rewards like 'a hug from a friend for brushing your teeth' or 'a smile from a stranger if you go outside for more than five minutes' are certainly enticing. We will always recommend the proven methods of light therapy, self-care, and social connection over anything."
"That said, while no amount of Taco Bell or social media engagement will fully replace the act of bettering oneself, sometimes it's just what you need to help get through the day.”
The company reported that unexpected positive reception has led to early development of two new "Depression" seasons, “The Next Four Years” and “Existential Dread." Rumours suggest these will be free bonus add-ons everyone will have to go through. They’ll mostly consist of community rewards for absolutely insane challenges nobody but you seem to be worried about.
Is gamification an ethical approach to treating mental health conditions like SAD?
## Is Gamification the Cure for the Winter Blues?
**(Intro Music)**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re diving into a controversial new development in the fight against seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. A popular app marketed towards those prone to wintertime blues has introduced a new “battle pass” system, rewarding users for completing everyday tasks. Joining me now is Dr. Emily Carter, a clinical psychologist specializing in mood disorders. Dr. Carter, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Now, many listeners might be thinking, “Isn’t gamifying something as serious as depression a bit insensitive?” What’s your professional opinion on this new approach?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s a complex issue. On the one hand, finding ways to motivate people to engage in positive behaviors, especially during the challenging winter months when energy and motivation can be low, is crucial. And yes, gamification can be a powerful tool for achieving that. We see its success in fitness apps, for example.
**Host:** So, there’s potential benefit?
**Dr. Carter:** There can be. But we have to be cautious. Treating a complex mental health condition like Seasonal Affective Disorder through something marketed as a ”game” raises ethical concerns. It risks trivializing the experience of those suffering and overlooks potential underlying issues that require professional intervention.
**Host:** The article mentions the battle pass includes rewards for activities like drinking water, showering, and even calling your mom. These seem pretty basic.
**Dr. Carter:** Exactly. While encouraging these behaviors is positive, it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons someone might struggle with them. For some, these tasks can be overwhelming due to the symptoms of SAD, such as fatigue and apathy. Simply offering points and badges isn’t addressing the root cause.
**(Short Musical Interlude)**
**Host:** There’s also the financial aspect. This battle pass is paid for.
**Dr. Carter:** That’s another major concern. Placing a price tag on mental well-being can be exploitative, especially for vulnerable populations already struggling financially. We need to prioritize accessible and evidence-based treatments for SAD, not rely on potentially manipulative marketing tactics.
**Host:** Dr. Carter, thank you for shedding light on this complex issue. As with any new development in the world of mental health, it’s important to approach it with a critical eye and ensure we are prioritizing ethical and effective care for those who need it. We’ll be right back after a short break.
**(Outro Music)**
