The ideas behind the game
YeahBut is inspired by two well-studied ideas: cognitive defusion (seeing a thought as a thought) and behavioural activation (small actions come before motivation). It is a game for everyday overthinking, not therapy.
Why hearing a thought in a silly voice helps
In cognitive defusion exercises, people say a negative self-thought in a funny voice or sing it. Early studies found that this made the thought less believable and less upsetting without arguing with it. YeahBut turns that exercise into a 10-second cartoon.
Why one tiny move comes next
Behavioural activation is built on a simple loop: do a small, concrete thing and let the feeling follow, instead of waiting to feel ready. YeahBut ends every battle with one two-minute move, so the excuse loses a little more power each time you do it.
What a game cannot do
YeahBut is not therapy, medical advice, or a crisis service, and does not diagnose or treat any condition. It is for everyday overthinking and procrastination. If you are struggling, please talk to a qualified professional. In crisis, call 14416 (India), 988 (US and Canada), 111 or 999 (UK), 13 11 14 (Australia), or visit findahelpline.com.
References
- Masuda, A., Hayes, S. C., Sackett, C. F., & Twohig, M. P. (2004). Cognitive defusion and self-relevant negative thoughts: examining the impact of a ninety year old technique. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 42(4), 477–485. PubMed
- Larsson, A., Hooper, N., Osborne, L. A., Bennett, P., & McHugh, L. (2016). Using brief cognitive defusion techniques to cope with negative thoughts. The Psychological Record, 66, 485–496. DOI
- Lejuez, C. W., Hopko, D. R., Acierno, R., Daughters, S. B., & Pagoto, S. L. (2011). Ten year revision of the brief behavioral activation treatment for depression: revised treatment manual. Behavior Modification, 35(2), 111–161. PubMed
Citing research shows where the ideas come from. It does not mean YeahBut has been clinically tested. Last updated 27 October 2026.
Ready to shrink one?
YeahBut is in closed testing on Google Play and coming to the Play Store soon.