In the world of esports, the glitz and glamour often overshadow the harsh realities that players face. We regularly speak about player burnout and the toll it takes on pro athletes.
Many players, especially in the League of Legends European Championship (LEC), are grappling with mental stress, as reported by Dot esports this past week.
Depression, burnout, and insomnia are just some of the mental health issues that LEC pros have revealed they struggle with. These young players, some as young as 17, are often left to fend for themselves, with little to no support from the organizations they represent.
Credit: Bruno Alvares / Riot Games
Kyle “Danny” Sakamaki from Evil Geniuses, stepped away from the LCS due to the overwhelming pressure of being a pro player. Many players similarly have had to shoulder the esports pro player burden since their teenage years, often at the expense of their mental wellbeing. The life of a League pro is a roller coaster of high highs and low lows. The wins can send players over the moon, but the losses can make them feel like it’s the end of the world. The current LEC format leaves little room for players to focus on anything besides the game, exacerbating these feelings.
Research shows that the mental health issues in esports are not limited to the LEC. A study by Psychology Today highlighted the significant mental demands of esports, with players often struggling to regulate their emotions. Organizational pressure and the need to perform at a high level can lead to significant mental health issues.
Players also revealed that the organizations they represent often fail to provide adequate support. The organizations have full authority over the players, deciding who gets to play, who gets benched, and who gets kicked off the team. These decisions are often made without consulting the players, leading to additional stress and anxiety.
The mental health crisis in esports is a pervasive problem that needs to be addressed. As more and more players come forward with their struggles, it’s clear that the industry needs to do more to support its players.
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