World Mental Health Day: India's Prominent Gaming Personalities Speaks On Mental Well-Being
On this World Mental Health Day, we can draw valuable insights from some of the gaming industry's prominent figures, helping individuals thrive in the world of gaming while also prioritizing their mental health.
The ascent of Esports in India has been truly remarkable, with the country's exceptionally talented athletes participating in the Asian Games 2022, where Esports gained official recognition as a medal sport. BGMI tournaments have now permeated mainstream sports networks and streaming platforms, propelling gamers into the realm of household names and inspiring a new generation to pursue their gaming aspirations.
As Esports and gaming transition from niche pastimes to a full-blown, multi-sporting sensation in the nation, much of the spotlight falls on aspects like competition, prize money, skill, and fame. However, amidst this rapid growth, there is an often-overlooked element deserving of our attention—mental health.
In our society, mental health is frequently taken for granted. The relentless pressure to excel at the highest level, coupled with the demands of fierce competition and the burden of national scrutiny, can impact even the most accomplished athletes and gamers. On this World Mental Health Day, it is crucial to address the delicate balance between pursuing one's passion and safeguarding one's mental well-being. We can glean invaluable insights from prominent figures within the gaming industry to help individuals not only thrive in the world of gaming but also prioritize their mental health.
Animesh Agarwal aka 8Bit Thug, Founder and CEO, 8Bit Creatives and Co-Founder of S8UL says, “World Mental Health Day reminds us that taking care of our mental well-being is as crucial as our physical health. In the gaming industry, where athletes have to perform when the stakes are high and streamers have to consistently entertain their audience for long hours, it is essential to prioritize mental health and seek support when needed. At 8Bit Creatives, we actively encourage our talent to take care of their mental health. We believe that a healthy mind is the cornerstone of success, not just in gaming but also in life.”
Sharing his insights on navigating the mental health challenges in Esports for emerging gamers, Harsh Paudwal, also known as Soul Goblin, “Competing at the highest level of Esports comes with immense pressure as your every move is scrutinized and every decision counts. Consequently, you spend hours of practice on end to improve your gameplay and to achieve perfection. To tackle this, the most important thing is to focus on staying in the present and not dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about the future. It is pivotal to remember that burnout is a real threat. Step away from the screen, clear your mind, and engage in activities that recharge your mental batteries.”
Naman Mathur, Co-Founder of S8UL, highlights, "Esports and streaming can be mentally taxing. So, it is key to take breaks while grinding and setting dedicated time slots for pursuing your passion. One should pick an outdoor sport of their choice and play it regularly as it relaxes the mind as well as the body. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and proper sleep of a minimum of six hours is vital to keep your mental health and performance in check."
Kaashvi Hiranandani aka Kaash Plays, a renowned female gamer in India managed by 8Bit Creatives, said "As a female gamer, I have encountered my share of challenges, from gender bias to online harassment. My advice to fellow female gamers is to be confident and unapologetically passionate about gaming. Surround yourself with a positive community that uplifts you. Don't let stereotypes or negativity deter you; rather, use it as fuel to prove them wrong."
