Reclaiming Play: The Key to Adult Well-Being.

Play, stress, depression, and anxiety.

It is my opinion that, among other things, one of the key reasons why the burden of stress, depression, and anxiety continues to rise and persist among adults is a lack of play.

Have you heard the common passes made at people like “You are acting like a child” or “Why are you playing like a child” or the common one we throw at any adult we see playing, enjoying, and having fun, “You didn’t play as a child” or “You are making up for the play you missed in childhood”.

Subconsciously, we run with the idea that play is for children and that adults should not be playing. Yes, it’s subconscious, maybe even unconscious, and it just plays a significant role in the decline of play in adulthood.

Play is not merely a frivolous activity; it is an important component of childhood that significantly contributes to a child's holistic development. Play, defined as any enjoyable, purposeless, and voluntary activity, is crucial for children's physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Through play, children learn to explore the world around them, develop problem-solving skills, build resilience, and enhance their creativity. Moreover, play provides an avenue for children to express their emotions, form social connections, and learn to navigate the complexities of human interaction.

In essence, play is the work of childhood, and it prepares children to face life's challenges with confidence and adaptability. It is through play that children learn to negotiate, communicate, and collaborate, skills that are vital for success in adulthood. By engaging in imaginative and unstructured play, children also learn to regulate their emotions, manage stress, and develop a sense of identity.

Unfortunately, as adults, many of us tend to overlook the importance of play in our lives. The demands of work, societal expectations, and the pursuit of productivity often lead to the neglect of play as we transition into adulthood. This neglect comes with significant consequences for our well-being. Without the joy and freedom that play brings, adults are more prone to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection from their inner selves and others.

By dismissing the role of play in our lives, we miss out on the opportunity to engage in activities that bring us joy, reduce stress, and foster creativity. Play offers adults a chance to recharge, gain new perspectives, and find meaning in their lives. Through play, adults can revitalize their problem-solving abilities, enhance their emotional resilience, and strengthen their social connections.

Why not reclaim the benefits of playing for yourself? You can incorporate playful activities into your daily life. This might involve engaging in hobbies, spending time in nature, participating in sports, or simply allowing yourself to be creative without the pressure of productivity.

By reintegrating play into our lives, we can experience the same developmental and emotional benefits that children gain, leading to a more balanced, fulfilling, and joyful life.

Learn from the kids around you. Be intentional about your play and just maybe you will bring new joy into your life!

Thrive!