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Addiction, Burnout, and Depression in Esports

Addiction, Burnout, and Depression in Esports

Phil Birch, Dylan R. Poulus, Rebecca Wong, Benjamin T. Sharpe Atheeshaan Arumuham
The Psychology of Esports Performance, pp.181-201
Routledge Research Series in Esports and Video Gaming, Routledge, 1st
2026
: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003663676-13
 
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Addiction, burnout, and depression pose significant challenges to esports given the unique demands placed on performers within high-pressure competitive environments. This chapter provides a comprehensive examination of current understanding by exploring theoretical frameworks, empirical insights, and interventions designed to support players navigating the multifaceted mental health challenges of esports. We examine competing models of mental health, contrasting the traditional bipolar model with the more contemporary dual-continuum model (which recognises mental health and mental illness as related but distinct constructs). The chapter applies Self-Determination Theory to understand how satisfaction of basic psychological needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness influences susceptibility to addictive disorders and mental health outcomes. We synthesise empirical research on addiction, examining prevalence rates and contributing factors such as motivation, environmental influences, and personality traits. The chapter reviews evidence on psychological burnout, characterised by physical and emotional exhaustion, reduced sense of accomplishment, and performance devaluation, alongside research on depression and anxiety prevalence among esports players. We identify critical research gaps, including the need for industry-wide mental health guidelines, enhanced assessment methodologies, longitudinal research designs, and practical implementation strategies that integrate mental health support at individual, team, and organisational levels to promote sustainable performance and player well-being.

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