This week on Well Well Well, we explore the power of play and life-saving health interventions.

Dr Phoebe Toups Dugas from Monash University joins us to discuss how games can be more than just entertainment—they can be spaces for identity exploration, community building, and inclusion for trans and queer players. We dive into what makes a game truly inclusive, how queer and trans gamers are shaping the future of game design, and why representation behind the scenes matters.

Then, we turn our focus to harm reduction with Linda Cowan from Thorne Harbour Health, who breaks down everything you need to know about Naloxone—how it works, how to access it, and how this simple intervention can save lives in the face of Australia’s ongoing overdose crisis.

TGD Gaming Resources: 

Published Papers:

Designed & Discovered Euphoria: Insights from Trans-Femme Players’ Experiences of Gender Euphoria in Video Games

Analyzing Trans (Mis)Representation in Video Games to Remediate Gender Dysphoria Triggers

Games Discussed:

Celeste

One night; hot springs

Cyberpunk 2077

VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action

Easy, Free Development Platforms:

Twine

Godot

Sesh.ed (Instagram)
Follow @sesh.ed for down-to-earth, non-stigmatising drug education and harm reduction info.

Overdose Day
Learn how to administer naloxone and access overdose prevention resources: overdoseday.com

TripSit Drug Combinations Chart
Check drug interactions and potentially dangerous combinations with this easy-to-use chart: combo.tripsit.me

Drug Alerts (Victoria)
Stay informed with alerts from VicHealth and Sesh.ed. You can also get SMS alerts direct to your phone via Barwon Health: mhdas.barwonhealth.org.au

Free Naloxone at Pharmacies
Access naloxone for free through Victoria’s Take Home Naloxone program—no prescription needed: health.vic.gov.au – Naloxone Program