why are video games telling me to take a break

That leaves streamers wondering how to navigate making an income that isn't an official 'job.' Since they're self-employed, they can't rely on paid vacation, or sick leave. They risk their fanbase losing interest during a stream and logging off. Streamers can't really take breaks, either.

Stephen Flavall, or 'jorbs' on Twitch, with his occasional co-star, Zephyr the cat. Streamers have an audience, a persona, and act in the same role for long hours. While professional video gaming can sound like an enviable gig, it's not too different from being a performer.

Burnout is on the rise across the country, even for those whose work is - quite literally - play.

I started having anxiety, bordering on full panic attacks.'įlavall's gotten to a better place now, but his story isn't unique. 'Now I have like 2,000 viewers and when that many people are asking you questions and telling you what to do, it becomes absolutely unmanageable. 'Around 200 viewers was when it started getting exhausting,' says Flavall. Unfortunately, the vibe changed as his popularity grew. He liked how he could engage with a small community, cracking jokes while people cheered him on. When he first started streaming, he only had about fifteen people at a time watching him. Stephen Flavall makes his living by playing video games to an audience of thousands on Twitch.

Why are video games telling me to take a break