If dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic wasn’t enough to leave people frazzled, those in certain sections of the video game community have been left shocked in recent days due to the suicide of prolific streamer Byron “Reckful“ Bernstein and sexual abuse allegations within the Smash Bros community. I am not actively involved in any of the communities covered by the news in recent days, therefore I don’t feel it appropriate to provide commentary on these topics.
However, I would like to remind everyone that there are services out there in your local community should you or someone you know be left feeling depressed or anxious following these events (or life in general) and need someone to talk to.
Here in Australia, services include:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 46 36
- Headspace – 1800 650 890
- MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78
- Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
- In an immediate emergency, call 000
It is not a sign of weakness that events happening in the world may leave you panicked, depressed or suicidal; and there is no shame at all in seeking out help.
