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Superbetter CEO, Keith Wakeman: How Superbetter Transforms Mental Health

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Superbetter CEO, Keith Wakeman: How Superbetter Transforms Mental Health

Superbetter: Empowering Youth Mental Health

Last week at Northern Exposure, we had the honor of welcoming Keith Wakeman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SuperBetter, a game-based learning platform centered around mental health. With a background in brand management, corporate strategy, and innovative problem solving within the food industry, Mr. Wakeman has utilized his areas of expertise to expand the platform and influence of SuperBetter. During his presentation, Mr. Wakeman provided a detailed and clear description regarding the development of the methodology. First started by researcher and game designer Jane McGonigal, SuperBetter was created with the intention of building and improving mental health resilience. Its very own developer credits it with helping her heal after a severe concussion.

How exactly does SuperBetter work, though? What about it makes it unique when it comes to effectively targeting mental health? Keith Wakeman provided valuable insight into the game theory known as Live Gamefully created by Jane McGonigal. In essence, the mindset aims to rewire challenges, stress, and other obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. Rather than being deterred by these difficulties, the game theory allows one to tackle challenges head-on while simultaneously increasing a person’s psychological strength. By improving said resilience, Keith explained the ways in which academic success, mental health, workplace performance, and more are also improved.

One of the highlighted areas of Mr. Wakeman’s discussion included the evidence behind SuperBetter. There are currently a variety of studies that support the power and science behind this game. The results of each have demonstrated to be statistically significant and relevant to the overall objectives and goals of the platform and its framework. In a study conducted by Harvard Medical School, university students who utilized SuperBetter described reductions in both depression and anxiety when evaluated after a 6-month period. It is evident that SuperBetter is changing the playing field when it comes to addressing mental health and mental resilience. By implementing game theory, the platform has found a unique way to reach individuals in an interactive and effective manner. From chronic pain management, depression, and anxiety, to career and academic success, SuperBetter is providing individuals with a versatile mindset that will propel them through their endeavors.