Notes

In the midst of the pandemic, life as a student took a sharp turn. For many of us, including those who love studying, it meant adjusting to a whole new way of living. This essay is about my journey as a student dealing with depression during these challenging times.
at first i got trouble finding what to do, when everything seemed uncertain, gaming became my refuge. It wasn't just about fun; it was a way to escape from the stress and loneliness of lockdown life. Whether exploring fantasy worlds or teaming up with friends online, gaming gave me a sense of control and connection I desperately needed.
second with depression despite the temporary relief gaming provided, there were days when the weight of depression felt overwhelming. The isolation of lockdowns and the constant barrage of bad news took a toll on my mental health, making it hard to find motivation and joy in anything, even gaming.
third struggling to balance as much as I relied on gaming to cope, I also had to be mindful of not letting it consume me entirely. It was a delicate balance—finding moments of escape without neglecting my responsibilities or ignoring my mental health needs. and also, it's hard to balance the time for gaming and time for studying.
at last, one of the unexpected blessings of being a gamer during the pandemic was the sense of community I found online. Whether chatting with fellow gamers in a Discord server or teaming up with strangers in multiplayer games, knowing that others were going through similar struggles made me feel less alone.
the midst of uncertainty and isolation, gaming became more than just a hobby for me—it became a lifeline. It helped me navigate the challenges of being a student during the pandemic, offering moments of escape and connection when I needed them most. And while the road hasn't always been easy, I've learned that even in the darkest of times, there's always a light to be found—whether it's in the pixels of a virtual world or the kindness of a fellow gamer.