Greetings Survivors, today’s Pro-Tip Is from another member of the team. Today Beth has some words for us.
“So, let’s talk. Grab your stuffies, bring your juice box, come sit in the circle. Let’s Talk.
We’re friends here. I am so happy to say that we are friends. I’m glad to know every single one of you, and I want everyone to have a great time, both at game and at home. I’m glad that so many of you feel comfortable telling me when you’re not having a great time. I’m glad that many of you are getting better at expressing your needs and boundaries to others.
But this game is not a replacement for therapy. If any larp on this continent claims to be a replacement for therapy, do not buy a ticket, that’s a scam. If you’re struggling with feeling unwanted or burdensome at game, a new skill tree is not going to help. If you’re struggling with stress or trauma, a shiny new lovable idiot character is not the answer. Trust me, I’ve tried. I’ve struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember. I have been lost in the darkness for years, but I found my way out, and now I’m back with a lantern.
“Well jinkies Beth, if I can’t talk to my friends about what’s going on in my head, then what the heck am I supposed to do?” Hold onto your stuffies, that’s what we’re here to talk about today. How to recognize if you’re struggling with mental health issues, and what to do about it.
First and foremost is identifying the problem.
If you’re struggling to interact with your fellow players, it’s probably not because everyone hates you and is totally sick of you. Nor is it because you’re just the absolute worst, or a complete fuckup. Your mental health is not your fault, but it is your responsibility. It takes time and effort to fix, but it is up to you to put in that time and effort. It is not other people’s responsibility to manage your mental state. That’s on you.
Remember that anxiety isn’t just feeling scared all the time. It can manifest in a lot of different ways, ranging from fear to depression to anger. Lashing out at people and avoiding confrontations altogether are both symptoms, despite being polar opposite reactions to stimuli. Trust me, it’s confusing.
Talk to a doctor, take an anxiety assessment test. Office visits are pricey, but this is worth the investment. Ask about mood stabilizers, ask about counseling. Do not give up and say that this is just who you are. Trust me, it’s not.
I could go on for ages giving examples and brainstorming solutions for you guys, because I want every single one of you to feel happy and healthy. But the point of this is, I am not your therapist. I have a therapist, I can recommend an inexpensive telehealth counselor, but I am not a counselor. That’s not my job, or Curtis or Ro’s. We’re here for the same thing you are: to play a game together. And if you can’t make your own neurotransmitters, store bought is fine.
TL:DR, do drugs and talk to strangers. “