Conversation with Robbert and Nils about Hectic Harmony

Camille spoke with Robbert Meulemeester and Nils Vandenbroucke about Hectic Harmony, the latest game simulation from PM and CrisisCare.eu.

Camille: What is Hectic Harmony?

Nils: Hectic Harmony is an interactive stress game developed by CrisisCare.eu and PM, designed to introduce players to the principles of stress management. In the game, fictional characters experience a stressful day and learn to recognize stressors and respond appropriately. The trainer guides participants through the various rounds and supports the learning process.

The scenarios are variable, making each session unique and allowing the game to be played multiple times. Scenarios can also be customized to fit an organisation’s needs, greatly enhancing relevance and engagement for the players.

The game can be used as a simulation during stress management or self-care training sessions, but it is also appreciated as a team-building activity.

Camille: Why a game?

Robbert: There are several reasons. First, at PM, we advocate for experiential learning. Sure, we could summarize the message of the game in two slides. However, that wouldn’t have the desired impact. The game provides an experience, making people more receptive to the lessons we want to impart. We’ve observed that since the pandemic, organisations have been seeking “something different” or an alternative to traditional training. Hectic Harmony fits well with this trend.

Additionally, we shouldn’t forget that stress management, particularly individual stressors and coping mechanisms, are quite personal and sometimes even heavy topics. A game provides a degree of abstraction from reality, making these topics easier to discuss. For example, it’s easier to talk about the emotional state of your game character than your own.

Finally, a game requires little to no preparation, which is beneficial for both the client and the trainer.

Hectic Harmony materialen

Camille: How did Hectic Harmony come about?

Nils: The first version originated as an exercise during training sessions for people working in crisis situations. In some teams or sectors, emotional or personal topics can be more difficult to discuss. We wanted to avoid too much theory while conveying various concepts in an accessible manner. Hectic Harmony provides a practical approach to addressing these challenges without being too heavy for participants.

Over time, the game has evolved into a didactic tool and an accessible way to discuss stress and coping mechanisms, including in long-term or less acute stress situations.

Camille: What is the connection to crisis management?

Robbert: The game includes a standard set of materials applicable to any organisation, but we also developed an expansion pack specifically for crisis teams. This expansion includes stimuli, stressors, and coping mechanisms tailored to crisis team members, such as sudden political interference, press inquiries at the door, or an important document that turns out to be outdated. The standard package is already very useful for crisis teams, but the expansion pack adds an extra layer of challenge.

Organisations using Hectic Harmony can also add their own expansion packs. This opens up opportunities, for example, to promote their workplace wellness initiatives.

Hectic Harmony materialen

Camille: What do you want players to remember?

Nils: The game carries many lessons. We want to convey that stress is a natural part of life, but like everything else, it needs to be balanced. Players also learn how stressors, stress signals, and coping styles vary individually. It’s important for players to recognize stressors and handle them in a healthy way. The game emphasizes the importance of a social support network, sharing experiences, and developing effective coping mechanisms. It encourages players to reflect on and discuss stress. The game can be used during self-care sessions and to support each other in stressful situations.

Camille: When will the game be available?

Robbert: The game is already available for individual purchase through PM and CrisisCare.eu. For organisations that want to use it themselves, there are also licensing options. We train their trainers and accredit them to facilitate Hectic Harmony sessions independently.

Camille: What is your biggest dream for Hectic Harmony?

Nils: My biggest dream for Hectic Harmony is for it to reach a wide audience and have a positive impact on how people experience and manage stress. I hope the game becomes a tool used by various organisations to increase stress awareness and promote effective stress management skills.

It’s very satisfying to see people speak more openly about certain issues by the end of a session. Ultimately, I would like to see Hectic Harmony contribute to reducing stress-related problems and promoting well-being and resilience.

Camille: Are there any other games in the pipeline?

Robbert: Not at the moment, but that could change quickly. With Hectic Harmony, we’re certainly not new to this. We also developed Calamity Cards and the Zombie Game, which we use frequently in our practice. Once Hectic Harmony is launched, we’ll definitely be eager to start working on a new game. Anyone with ideas should feel free to contact us!