Nordic Larp as a Method in Mental Health Care and Substance Abuse Work: Case SÄRÖT

The SÄRÖT project establishes Nordic larp as a viable, innovative methodology for supporting individuals navigating mental health challenges and substance abuse recovery. By utilizing immersive, character-based role-play within a controlled environment, the initiative provides participants with a unique space to explore complex personal narratives and process trauma. This approach functions as a form of experiential therapy, where the combination of realistic scenarios and structured post-game reflection allows individuals to gain new perspectives on their lives, ultimately increasing their self-awareness and willingness to engage with professional healthcare services.

The efficacy of this method relies heavily on rigorous safety protocols and professional oversight. Through a combination of participant observation, thematic analysis, and qualitative interviews, the research demonstrates that while the emotional intensity of larp can be triggering, it is effectively mitigated by expert facilitation and comprehensive debriefing workshops. These safeguards transform potentially volatile experiences into constructive opportunities for peer support and emotional regulation. The integration of psychodrama principles and role-playing theory provides a robust foundation for these outcomes, ensuring that the creative process remains grounded in therapeutic best practices.

Spanning the Nordic region and drawing upon extensive expertise in social and health-related fields, this study confirms that larp serves as a powerful tool for social support when designed with intentionality. The findings suggest that the medium is most effective when developed in close collaboration with healthcare professionals, ensuring that the immersive nature of the games aligns with clinical goals. As a result, the project advocates for the continued integration of larp into mental health and substance abuse work, positioning it as a scalable, purposeful intervention capable of fostering significant personal growth and long-term recovery.