The Research Behind THRIVE
THRIVE was developed using findings from psychological research on university student mental well-being. The game transforms evidence-based protective factors into interactive gameplay that teaches stress management, resilience, and healthier decision-making.
The Core Study
Researchers examined 327 Canadian university students to understand what predicts stronger mental well-being.¹
The study measured:
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Depression (PHQ-9)
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Anxiety (GAD-7)
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Positive & Negative Affect
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Mood & Well-Being
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Social Support
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Physical Activity
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Self-Management Skills
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¹Wang & Huggon (2024)
Key Findings
The study revealed that multiple protective factors are linked to better mental well-being.
Self-Management Works
Students with stronger planning, discipline, and self-management reported better mood and lower depression.
1
Social Support Protects Mental Health
Higher support from others was linked to lower anxiety, lower depression, and better emotional well-being.
2
Physical Activity Helps Mood
Students who moved more reported stronger positive emotional states.
3
A one-minute breathing exercise immediately improved mood and mental well-being.
One Minute Can Matter
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Stress Storm Cards
How Research Became Gameplay
Energy / Focus / Connection Resources
Mindful Break Card
Represent real-life pressures students face and challenge players to respond effectively.
Based directly on the protective factors found in the research: physical activity, self-management, and social support.
Inspired by the study’s one-minute breathing intervention shown to improve mood and well-being.
Why Use a Board Game?
Research is powerful—but papers alone do not always change behavior. THRIVE uses play, reflection, and decision-making to make mental health strategies memorable, social, and easier to apply in real life.