Esports players are subjected to intense pressure to perform at their best, leading to various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. However, leading esports organizations are recognizing the need to prioritize their players’ mental health and implementing programs and resources that support players’ mental wellbeing. For example, Team Liquid has hired a full-time sports psychologist, Counter-Logic Gaming has developed a mental health program with mental health screenings, workshops, and access to specialized therapists, and Cloud9 has partnered with a mental health platform that provides players with access to confidential mental health resources. By prioritizing mental health, these organizations are contributing to the sustainability and growth of the esports industry as a whole.
The Role of Mental Health in Esports: Spotlight on Leading Esports Organizations’ Support for Players
Introduction
Esports, also known as electronic sports, involves competitive video gaming where players compete against each other in various games. It has grown exponentially in recent years, with millions of fans and players around the world. However, the intense competition and prolonged gaming sessions can take its toll on players’ mental health. Thankfully, leading esports organizations have recognized the importance of mental health and are taking steps to support their players.
The Issue of Mental Health in Esports
Esports players are subjected to intense pressure to perform at their best, often spending long hours practicing and competing. This can lead to various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. In a survey conducted by the International Esports Federation in 2020, it was found that more than 36% of esports players reported experiencing depression or anxiety. Therefore, it is crucial for esports organizations to prioritize their players’ mental health.
The Role of Esports Organizations in Supporting Mental Health
Leading esports organizations are recognizing the need to prioritize their players’ mental health. They are implementing programs and resources that support the players’ mental wellbeing. The following are examples of leading esports organizations that have taken steps to support their players’ mental health:
Team Liquid
Team Liquid, one of the biggest esports organizations in the world, has established a unique approach to its players’ mental health. The organization has hired a full-time sports psychologist to work with its players, providing them with mental health support and personalized development programs. The psychologist helps the players manage stress and anxiety, build communication and teamwork skills, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Counter-Logic Gaming
Counter-Logic Gaming (CLG) has also stepped up to support its players’ mental health. The organization worked with industry experts to develop a mental health program that helps players deal with the pressures of competition. The program includes mental health screenings, workshops on sleep hygiene and nutrition, and access to a therapist who specializes in treating gamers.
Cloud9
Cloud9, one of the biggest names in esports, has also prioritized its players’ mental health. The organization has partnered with a mental health platform called Mindframe, which provides players with access to confidential mental health resources. This includes 24/7 virtual mental health support from licensed clinical professionals and an online wellbeing assessment tool.
Conclusion
The growth of esports has brought with it various challenges for players, including issues with mental health. Fortunately, leading esports organizations are recognizing the importance of mental health and are taking steps to support their players. By prioritizing mental health, these organizations are not only benefiting their players, but also contributing to the sustainability and growth of the industry as a whole.