The Psychological Benefits of Role-Playing Experiences: Applications for Veterans and First Responders in TTRPG Communities

ABSTRACT

Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) offer significant psychological benefits, as explored in foundational research on role-playing experiences. This article examines the insights from Bowman's (2007) work on the psychological power of role-playing, integrating perspectives from community-building literature and therapeutic gaming applications. By fostering immersion, emotional expression, and social bonds, TTRPGs align with the needs of veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Drawing on resources like Sebastian Junger's Tribe and Roll2Heal's blog, the discussion highlights how such games create supportive environments for stress alleviation and relationship building. 

Photo Courtesy of : R2H Chapter in Mesquite, TX

INTRODUCTION

Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) have evolved beyond mere entertainment, emerging as tools for psychological well-being and community support. Bowman's (2007) seminal article, "The Psychological Power of the Role-Playing Experience," delves into how immersion in role-playing scenarios can facilitate emotional processing and personal growth. This is particularly relevant for groups facing high-stress environments, such as veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals, who often grapple with PTSD symptoms like isolation and anxiety. Roll2Heal, a dedicated initiative, provides these individuals with a safe space where TTRPGs promote social engagement, build lasting relationships, and help mitigate stress. By examining Bowman's insights alongside complementary resources, this article illustrates the therapeutic potential of TTRPGs while emphasizing Roll2Heal's community-focused approach, which prioritizes recreational support over professional therapy.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Bowman's (2007) exploration highlights role-playing as a multifaceted psychological tool, encompassing ludic (playful), narrative, and social dimensions that contribute to deeper self-understanding and emotional catharsis. Participants in role-playing experiences often report heightened empathy, identity exploration, and a sense of empowerment through character embodiment, which can mirror real-life challenges in a controlled setting. These elements make TTRPGs ideal for addressing PTSD, as they allow individuals to process trauma indirectly through storytelling and collaboration.

Complementing this, Sebastian Junger's (2016) Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging argues that modern society's individualism exacerbates PTSD among veterans by severing the close-knit bonds formed in high-stakes environments like combat. Junger posits that returning to a fragmented civilian life intensifies trauma symptoms, as individuals miss the tribal camaraderie that provides purpose and mutual support. This loss of community can lead to heightened isolation, but shared activities—like those in TTRPGs—can recreate those bonds, fostering resilience and reducing stress.

Roll2Heal's blog further underscores these benefits in practical terms, detailing how TTRPGs support mental health for veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals. Posts such as "Harnessing Tabletop Role-Playing Games for Mental Health Support" emphasize collaborative storytelling's role in building emotional resilience and interpersonal connections, while "The Therapeutic Potential of Tabletop Role-Playing Games for PTSD" addresses symptoms like social withdrawal through engaging group dynamics. These resources align with Bowman's framework by illustrating how role-playing's psychological immersion aids in trauma processing without formal therapeutic intervention.

DISCUSSION

Integrating Bowman's (2007) psychological insights with Junger's (2016) emphasis on tribal belonging reveals strong ties to Roll2Heal's mission. In TTRPG sessions, participants assume roles that encourage vulnerability and teamwork, mirroring the supportive "tribe" Junger describes as essential for PTSD recovery. For instance, veterans might channel combat experiences through fantasy narratives, gaining distance from real trauma while strengthening bonds with peers—much like the social engagement highlighted in Roll2Heal's blog on long-term mental health impacts.

Roll2Heal ensures a safe environment by incorporating tools like the Deck of Player Safety, which helps participants set boundaries and maintain comfort during games. This approach avoids positioning members as therapists, focusing instead on peer-driven recreation that naturally alleviates stress. By tying role-playing's power to community building, Roll2Heal exemplifies how TTRPGs can serve as accessible outlets for those in high-pressure professions, promoting healing through shared adventures rather than clinical methods.

CONCLUSION

The psychological power of role-playing, as articulated by Bowman (2007), offers valuable pathways for stress relief and social connection, particularly when applied to communities like Roll2Heal. Supported by Junger's (2016) insights on belonging and practical examples from Roll2Heal's resources, TTRPGs emerge as effective tools for veterans, first responders, and healthcare professionals navigating PTSD. Interested individuals are encouraged to join the supportive Roll2Heal community on Discord at https://discord.gg/q7HAsxb4Rt to experience these benefits firsthand.

REFERENCES

Bowman, S. L. (2007). The psychological power of the role-playing experience. Journal of Interactive Drama, 2(1), 1–15.

Junger, S. (2016). Tribe: On homecoming and belonging. Twelve.

Roll2Heal. (n.d.). Blog. Retrieved January 26, 2026, from https://roll2heal.org/blog