Gaming for Fun, Not Escape: ITZCOZNEY’s Honest Take on Mental Health
by Baltic Apparel
For many, streaming is a dream. The idea of playing games while people watch, interact, and support you can be exciting, rewarding, and even life-changing. But for ITZCOZNEY, that dream also came with lessons—about balance, mental health, and knowing when to step back.
“I started creating content around 2021,” he explains. “I always wanted to be a streamer. I began making funny videos, and once they went well, I decided to get the minerals to go live. Playing video games with people watching was always a dream of mine.”
The Highs of Streaming
Like many creators, ITZCOZNEY loved the feeling that came from streaming.
“Knowing that people actually enjoy sitting and watching you play—that’s an awesome feeling. Receiving support for being good at a game or as a streamer in general is something special.”
The highlight moments? The big audiences.
“There are a few times that will stick with me forever, all based around large numbers of people watching and appreciating the content I was putting out.”
The Strain Behind the Screen
But behind the likes, chats, and streams, there’s another side to the story.
“Recently, I stepped away from gaming and went back into the real world, as I like to put it. Streaming is a very hard slug. Trying to remain consistent with streams and clips is an ongoing battle with your own mind.”
His honesty cuts through the glamorised version of streaming life:
“Gaming is fun, and it’s an escape—but that’s just it. You escape from your problems, but that doesn’t mean you tackle them. Always make time for yourself. Get outside. Be active.”
The Mental Health Reality
Like many creators, ITZCOZNEY has faced mental health challenges along the way.
“I don’t think full-time streaming is a healthy environment. If you do it now and then—it’s great! But when you do it full time, I don’t believe the good outweighs the bad. For me, it got too much. I decided to stop streaming and focus on videos at my own pace with zero pressure, rather than spending hours behind a screen.”
His advice to gamers and streamers?
“You need to limit your time at the computer. Yes, it’s comfortable and safe—but that’s the trap. We live in a beautiful world waiting to be experienced. Everything in moderation. Keep gaming for fun and keep it fun.”
Speaking Up and Seeking Help
ITZCOZNEY also stresses the importance of speaking out when you’re struggling.
“If you’re struggling, speak to someone. There are so many people who will listen. Professional help is very accessible these days, which we’re lucky for. Do you want to look back on your life and see yourself sat at a computer—or look back at hundreds of memories from different places and experiences?”
Why Baltic Apparel Stands Behind This Message
At Baltic Apparel, we believe mental health awareness doesn’t stop at talking—it’s also about living it. Our streetwear is designed to start conversations, break stigmas, and remind people—especially men—that it’s okay to step back, breathe, and take care of yourself.
Stories like ITZCOZNEY’s are a reminder that gaming can be incredible in moderation, but life is meant to be lived both online and off.
👉 Support the movement and wear the message: www.balticapparel.co.uk