The overall objective of Simply4Emotions was to develop, test and sustainably implement an innovative learning tool aimed at strengthening emotional self‑regulation competences among health and social care professionals. Specific objectives included a research‑based analysis of emotional challenges and evidence‑based self‑regulation strategies, the development of a physical simulation game addressing authentic professional scenarios, and its adaptation into a digital format to enable flexible and location‑independent learning. In addition, a didactic framework and handbook were created to support structured integration into vocational education, continuing training and professional development contexts. A further key objective was the wide dissemination and long‑term usability of project results as Open Educational Resources. By applying game‑based and simulation‑based learning approaches, Simply4Emotions promotes innovative, competence‑oriented education and supports learner‑centred and reflective professional training.
Simply4Emotions was initiated in response to the steadily increasing emotional and psychological strain experienced by health and social care professionals. Nurses, therapists, social workers and other professionals regularly face time pressure, staff shortages, ethical dilemmas, and continuous exposure to suffering, illness and death. Over time, these demands negatively affect individual well‑being, motivation, staff retention and quality of care. At the same time, there is a clear lack of practical, accessible and low‑threshold learning opportunities focusing on emotional self‑regulation and resilience. Existing education and training programmes predominantly concentrate on technical or professional skills, while emotional and reflective competences are often addressed only theoretically or marginally. A key need therefore identified was the development of interactive, experiential learning formats that reflect real professional situations, support reflection and provide a safe space for collaborative learning. Simply4Emotions addresses this gap by using game‑based and simulation‑based learning to explore emotional challenges in a realistic, culturally sensitive and action‑oriented manner.