PAX Australia is one of the biggest gaming events on the calendar. Whether you're there to try new games, cosplay, attend panels or connect with other gamers, it can be an exciting and memorable experience.
A full day, or several days, at a large convention can also be demanding. Long queues, loud environments, crowded spaces and packed schedules can leave people feeling tired or overwhelmed.
Looking after yourself throughout the weekend can help you get more out of the experience.
If you're travelling to Melbourne for PAX Australia, consider your accommodation carefully. Having somewhere comfortable to relax and recharge at the end of the day can make a big difference, especially crowds, noise or lots of social interaction tend to drain your energy, it's worth planning ahead.
It can also help to pack a few things that'll help you feel comfortable day-to-day, such as:
A water bottle
Snacks
Headphones or earplugs
Sunglasses
Sensory items or fidget gadgets
Any medication or personal items you may need throughout the day
It's easy to create a packed itinerary and forget to leave room for breaks, try to schedule some breathing space between sessions, meetups and activities.
Remember to build in time for meals, getting fresh air and simply wandering around, having a bit of flexibility can make the whole weekend feel more enjoyable.
Everyone's signs are different. The more familiar you are with yours, the easier it becomes to recognise when you might need a break.
Your early warning signs might include:
Feeling anxious or on edge
Feeling irritable or frustrated
Struggling to concentrate
Becoming unusually tired
Wanting to withdraw from people
Finding noise, lights or crowds harder to tolerate
It's important to remember that looking after yourself isn't missing out. Taking 10 minutes to reset can help you enjoy the rest of the day much more than pushing through when you're already running low on energy.
If you need to step out of a queue, leave a panel early or find somewhere quieter for a while, that's okay.
If you need a break during PAX Australia, the AFK Room offers a quiet, low-sensory space away from the noise, lights and crowds of the show floor.
The room, located off the Expo Hall, is open from 10am to 6pm each day. Look for the AFK Room banner.
You don't need to be overwhelmed or in crisis to use it. It's there for anyone who wants to pause, recharge or regulate their senses before heading back into the event.
The AFK Room is supported by Beyond Blue volunteers, who help maintain a calm atmosphere and can provide information, resources and a listening ear.
Feeling overwhelmed often creeps up gradually. Try checking in with yourself throughout the day.
Ask yourself:
Do I need some fresh air?
Have I eaten and had enough water?
How is my energy level right now?
Am I enjoying myself?
If everything starts to feel louder, more crowded or harder to manage, consider taking a short pause sooner rather than later.
Stepping outside, sitting somewhere quiet or taking a few slow breaths can help you feel more grounded and give your mind a chance to reset.
PAX can be full of excitement, connection and memorable experiences. After it's over, some people feel tired, emotional or a bit low. That doesn't mean anything is wrong. It can simply be part of adjusting after a very busy and stimulating few days.
Let yourself reflect on the weekend rather than jumping straight back into everything. Recovering is part of the experience.
If you can, keep the day after PAX relatively gentle, and focus on:
Eating regular meals
Getting enough sleep
Staying hydrated
Spending some time outdoors
Giving yourself space to unwind
One of the things many people value most about PAX is the sense of community.
Consider reaching out after the event. Send a message, share photos, swap recommendations or continue conversations online.
PAX Australia is a reminder that there are thousands of people who share your passion for gaming. Those connections can continue long after the event has ended.
This content has been reviewed by Luke Martin – Beyond Blue’s Clinical Psychologist and Mental Health Practitioner.
Get free, confidential phone counselling any time of the day or night on 1300 22 4636.
As an organisation that supports people from across Australia, Beyond Blue acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay respect to Elders past and present.
First Nations Peoples are advised that this website may include reference to and images of deceased persons.
Beyond Blue is committed to safe inclusive spaces, policies and services for people of LGBTIQ+ communities and their families.
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