"Going hollow," a concept from the Dark Souls games, is a compelling description of depression. From the outside, a hollow person may look indistinguishable from someone who isn't battling mental illness. But inside there's a void, a downward steering force that makes even simple pursuits unbearable.

Video games are an excellent tool for combating hollowness. Few actions are needed to start playing, and the successes and failures experienced mimic the rhythm of life. Try, fail, learn, try again. Experiencing that rhythm, as opposed to not experiencing much of anything, helps to keep a hollow person grounded.

Multiplayer games in particular are valuable for providing an easy method of socialization. There's already a clear conversation topic, so a hollow person need not feel pressured to discuss anything aside from the game.

In video games and in life, mere curiosity about what comes next can be sufficient motivation to persist through difficult moments and keep going. Stay curious.