The Ad Council’s national Seize the Awkward suicide prevention campaign has joined up with Guild Wars 2 to raise awareness of how friends can help and support one another through hard times. Publishers NCSOFT and developer ArenaNet both have a good reputation for their inclusive and supportive online community and throughout February will be providing all 11 million players with a free Seize the Awkward t-shirt for their in-game character. A moving video can be seen below showcasing real life stories from Guild Wars 2 who have met and supported friends with their mental health through the game.
During February, players who visit the game’s gem store will be able to claim the special in-game t-shirt and equip it to their character and show others that they are always there for their friends when times are hard.
This year, the Guild Wars 2 develoeprs are inviting players to share their personal stories of helping one another via the hashtags #SeizetheAwkward and #GW2Friendships. Those who do will have the opportunity to have their own Guild Wars 2 character put into the game as an NPC where they will roam Tyria forever.
“We couldn’t be more excited to introduce a new audience to Seize the Awkward through a captivating, in-game feature where we believe users will be receptive to our message,” said Heidi Arthur, Chief Campaign Development Officer at the Ad Council. “Whether online or face-to-face, the important thing is to trust your gut and reach out to a friend who might be struggling. This effort will continue to encourage young adults to start these critical and potentially life-saving conversations.”
“Guild Wars 2’s players are renowned for their welcoming and supportive attitude and embracing the message of Seize the Awkward is a great opportunity to emphasize how necessary that type of support can be during hard times,” said Dr. Songyee Yoon, CEO of NCSOFT West. “Creating a strong community and an inviting place to play is a core pillar to all our games, and we’re very honored to partner with the Ad Council to highlight the way meaningful connections can be made through video games.”
Suicide is something that we can all help prevent just by doing something as simple as being their for our friends during periods where they are experiencing hard times.