The State of Mental Health Research in Esports: A Scoping Review

The growing popularity of esports has sparked interest in understanding its unique mental health challenges and opportunities. This scoping review examines the state of mental health research within esports, categorising findings using Keyes's dual continua model of mental health. Fifty-four studies were included, predominantly cross-sectional and involving male participants (90%). Results reveal a complex interplay between mental well-being, such as intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, and psychosocial skills, and mental ill-health, including anxiety (82% prevalence in elite players), burnout, and gaming addiction. Notably, 68.6% of elite players lacked access to mental health support. Despite recent growth in research, significant gaps remain, including methodological inconsistencies, a lack of longitudinal and intervention studies, and limited inclusion of diverse populations. The review underscores the need for standardised measurement tools, gender-balanced samples, and tailored mental health frameworks to address the unique pressures of esports, such as performance demands, digital toxicity, and irregular schedules. Future research may consider prioritising the development of evidence-based interventions and exploring the efficacy of organisational policies in fostering player well-being. These findings emphasise the urgency of implementing comprehensive mental health strategies to protect players' mental health in the rapidly growing esports ecosystem.