Board Games and Mental Health

With our modern lives becoming notoriously hectic and the darker nights drawing in, looking after our mental health and wellbeing really is more important than ever. Many of us are actively searching for meaningful ways to de-stress and take a break from outside pressures, whether that involves a screen detox, spending time with family, or expanding our social circle. Luckily for us, the answer could be sitting right on your shelf.

While always popular, the awesomeness of board gaming has really exploded in recent years. The hobby's remarkable benefits started to come to light during the lockdowns of 2020. Despite having to isolate, we were able to seek companionship and fun by playing together over platforms like Zoom. Since then, the hobby's popularity has soared.

Human Connection

One of the most profound benefits of this pastime is its ability to bring people together. When dealing with anxiety or depression, it can be easy to isolate yourself, but the simple act of setting up a board game and playing with friends creates a tangible sense of human connection.

After all, board games are far more than just entertainment; they are a powerful, engaging tool for wellness that provides an immediate mental reset. By offering a blend of cognitive challenge, focused calm, and positive social connection, we think they are a fantastic way to invest in your mental health, with the focused gameplay providing an excellent mental health break from outside stresses.

The shared passion of the board game hobby often goes on to establish many long-term friendships and a strong sense of community. After all, there's nothing more beneficial than being able to talk freely and connect with others over shared interests and the natural atmosphere of the tabletop helps to bring people together face-to-face. We know that here at Chaos Cards, many friendships have started over a love of the same game.
 

A Workout for the Brain

Playing board games has actually been proven to increase brain function. When we play a boardgame, we stimulate the areas in the brain responsible for memory and thought processes. This helps us to boost our essential cognitive skills including problem-solving, logic, reasoning, and memory skills. All things that are important to our mental health and wellbeing.

The strategic depth in games, even one as classic as Chess, where you have to think ahead and anticipate your opponent's next move, encourages serious analytical thought.

In fact, research supports these benefits. One recent study noted: "The results of several randomized controlled trials indicated that the playing of traditional board games helps to improve cognitive impairment and depression..." (Mutsuhiro Nakao, 2019). This level of cognitive exercise is so valuable that some experts even suggest it may help reduce the risks of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Considering all this evidence, it's clear these games should be played far more often than simply during the Christmas holidays!

Board Game Escapism and Stress Management

We think that playing a board game provides a wonderful form of escapism, allowing you to unwind and relax after a long stressful day. The focused nature of board games, such as the simple act of setting up a board, helps to encourage mindfulness by pulling your attention fully into the present moment and distracting from other stresses that could be playing on your mind.

There are even some schools of thought that suggest playing board games can help you to develop stress management skills. In practising facing stressful or challenging situations in a controlled, low-stakes environment, you can prepare yourself for dealing with other pressures.

Beyond the health benefits, board games are a fun and entertaining activity that naturally boosts mood. They are also an excellent way to improve literacy and numeracy skills with younger players. Just like puzzles, playing board games builds important developmental skills such as concentration and creativity, they can also make a fantastic alternative when you need a little downtime without interruption.
 

Invest in Your Wellbeing Through Play

Board games really help to focus the mind, whilst encouraging mindfulness, and fostering positive social connection. They also offer a valuable break from the immediacy of digital life which can actively boost both your mental and emotional health. Check out our pick of games that can help to boost your mental wellbeing over here!

It really is a good time to invest in your mental health through the power of play! Have you found a board game that has personally helped with your wellbeing? Please let us know over on our socials—we'd love to compile a list of reader-recommended games!