Mirror XR | Digital Mental Health Awareness Program 2025

The Mirror XR | SA Digital Mental Health Awareness Program 2025 is an innovative, research-driven initiative developed in collaboration with experts in Creative Technology, Educational Storytelling, and Psychology. This program offers three topic options — with a central focus on youth mental health — approached from distinct perspectivesiv block.

Topic #1: Connecting Parents and Teenagers in This Gaming Era

Many parents struggle to relate to their children’s digital or virtual lifestyles. While research shows that adult mental health problems started before 14 years old, 60% parents are unaware of their children’s mental health struggles when they arise. Bridging the gap between parents and teenagers in this gaming era is essential for parents to be able to support their children in navigating emotional challenges and foster stronger, healthier relationships.

Topic #2: The Future of Storytelling

Imagine being lost in a city without a map - this is how teenagers & young adults have to navigate their mental health challenges in this digital era. Due to social stigma around mental health, >70% teenagers and young adults (15-14 years old) with mental illness seek no treatment from health care staff.

When intentionally crafted, stories can be powerful, relatable, & inspiring. The future of storytelling is an evolving landscape with narrative-based story-living game holding so much untapped potential in helping teenagers & young adults map out their emotional challenges, challenging their perspective, fostering personal insights & emotional growth. 

Topic #3: Utilising Creative Technology for Good

Creative technology advancements have revolutionised the industry. However, it's implementation in education and mental health sphere has been limited. Many innovative approaches that are released in the industry are not research-based and therefore is not proven to be effective. In contrary, many proven research outcomes are just sitting on library shelves and have not been implemented. Creative technology innovative approach, if and only if done right, can be a promising solution to foster emotional learning and development. While cutting-edge technologies hold enormous potential, managing the risks are crucial. Utilising creative technology for good needs an intentional problem-solving and accountable approach.

Mirror XR | SA Digital Mental Health Awareness Program 2025

"The challenges facing our young people today need solutions that blend evidence-based research with practical action. By harnessing psychology, creative technology, and storytelling, we can equip the next generation of leaders with the skills to enhance their mental wellbeing and create positive global impact."

- Dr. Nathan Jones

Join Our Expert-Led Live Panel

Experts on Panel

Steve Cook

Immersive Media [XR] Technology
Senior Lecturer & Researcher at The University of Adelaide

Dr. Marissa Bond

AI-XR Technology
Lecturer & Researcher at Flinders University

Christel Cherryadi

Immersive Media [XR] Technology
Founder, AI-XR Innovation Lead, & Creative Director at Creart Digital Media

Dr. Tiffany De Souza

Emotional Wellbeing
Founder of the Village, Researcher & Lecturer at The University of Adelaide

Sarah Bilan

Emotional Wellbeing
Clinical Psychologist at Futures Wellness Clinic

Dr. Nathan Jones

Emotional Wellbeing
Founder of Mood Institute, Researcher & Lecturer at The University of Adelaide

Sanja Hendrick

Creative Storytelling
Public Speaking Coach at Talent Academy | TEDx Speaker

Dr. Wiliam Andrade

Creative Storytelling
Lecturer & Researcher at The University of Adelaide

Live Panel Host

Kieran McCann

Partnership Manager at ILA

Sanja Hendrick

Public Speaking Coach at Talent Academy | TEDx Speaker

Kimberly Goh

Founder of Migrant Women Professional Network