7 Questions with Twitch Streamer, @lethaljesusttv
We created the “7 Questions With” series to meet new and old friends of the Aloe Bud community and to learn about the way they incorporate self-care and take care of their mental health in their daily lives. This month we are introducing you to @lethaljesusttv, a Twitch streamer and Ambassador of the Aloe Bud community.
Q1: Tell me about yourself.
Hey there! I’m Chloe and I’m a disabled, neurodivergent, and chronically ill creative. I’m honestly just a bundle of silliness who loves to shout about mental health awareness, disability rights, and accessibility. I’m an MA Creative Writing student, I love to crochet and I am obsessed with cows — I even have a tattoo of one!
Q2: What got you into streaming?
Two things really: I was an active part of a number of streamers’ communities during the pandemic and they inspired me, but also because I acquired a disability that put me out of work. Streaming gave me a purpose and something to work towards, so I decided to take the leap! It’s honestly been such a fun journey, and I can honestly say it’s my pride and joy.
Q3: Tell me about your Twitch community.
My community truly fills me with so much joy! I love that they always show up for me and that they understand my limitations and celebrate my joys too. I feel so held by them! We have a very ‘come-as-you-are’ mindset, and we don’t expect people to be at their best all the time. I like my community to feel held by me too, and each other. We’re silly, goofy, lovers of dad jokes and always prepared to be there for one another. We love community games too!
Q4: Why is self-care so important to you personally?
As a disabled person with an energy-limiting condition, I have to take self-care seriously. Pacing is extremely important and without taking care of myself, my condition can worsen and I have the potential to be made bedbound. That’s why self-care is so important - by taking care of myself and listening to my body, I can live a better life, one that is as full as possible so long as I account for my limitations. I also think self-care is central to personal growth and understanding. I really value self-improvement!
Q5: What do you do during streams to take care of yourself?
I take hourly breaks for at least three minutes and run my ads during this time! I use my breaks to stretch, use the bathroom, and just generally do any decompression that I need. I make sure I have my medication on my desk so I can take it at set times and when needed. I stay hydrated, making certain to have a water bottle on the desk too! I even have redeems in chat that remind me - and my community - to do all of these things. If I am hungry or flagging, I make sure to eat to keep my energy up too. I do a lot of snacking, especially saltier snacks because it’s a huge help to managing the symptoms of my chronic illness!
Q6: Do you do any community self-care?
I think the big one is making room for people to be honest about their feelings. We talk about what’s bothering us, and we lend support to one another. I encourage people to rest and step away if they need breaks. I have channels on my server for venting, celebrating wins, and also to discuss mental wellbeing, etc. I make a point to make support be at the center of everything that we do.
Q7: What advice would you like to give Twitch streamers experiencing digital burnout?
I think the most important thing is doing what you love. Play the games you love, and operate on what works for you instead of what works for other people. And more than anything - take breaks. You would take breaks from a job and take holidays. Step away for a while, let your passion be renewed, and come back with a fresh mind and clear eyes. I also highly recommend connecting with other streamers who get it! It can make a world of difference. Take care of yourself. That’s what’s key.
