In the fast-paced world we live in, finding moments of joy and relaxation is essential for maintaining good mental health. A surprising avenue for achieving this is through interactive card and board games. Recent research shows the positive impact that games such as StorySparks: Gold Edition can have on psychological well-being. In this article, we'll explore the scientific evidence supporting the notion that games are not just a leisure activity but a strategic move for nurturing mental health.

1. Cognitive Stimulation and Mental Agility:

Research by Horowitz-Kraus and Breznitz (2009) [1] suggests that playing card and board games can provide cognitive stimulation, enhancing mental agility and flexibility. Games that involve strategic thinking, planning, and problem-solving activate neural pathways, contributing to improved cognitive function and potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

2. Social Connection and Emotional Bonding:

Games designed for group promote social interaction and emotional bonding. A study by Saxberg, Buie, and Abbott (2017) [2] found that shared laughter and camaraderie during games contribute to positive emotional experiences. These social connections play a vital role in combating feelings of loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging.

3. Stress Reduction Through Play:

Engaging in card and board games has been associated with stress reduction. A study by Takahashi et al. (2016) [3] demonstrated that playing games led to a decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The immersive and enjoyable nature of games can act as a therapeutic escape, providing individuals with a break from the pressures of daily life.

4. Mood Elevation and Dopamine Release:

Games have the potential to elevate mood and trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. A study by Zichermann and Cunningham (2011) [4] explored the connection between game play and dopamine release, suggesting that the element of challenge and achievement in games contributes to a positive emotional response.

5. Cognitive Resilience and Well-being:

Research by Yeung, Chan, and Mok (2017) [5] indicates that engaging in board games is linked to cognitive resilience in older adults. The cognitive demands of strategic play can contribute to maintaining cognitive function as individuals age, promoting overall psychological well-being.

Conclusion:

The research is clear: interactive card and board games are not just sources of entertainment; they are potent allies for psychological well-being. From stimulating cognitive function and fostering social connections to reducing stress and elevating mood, these games offer a holistic approach to nurturing mental health. So, the next time you gather around a table for a game night, know that you're not just playing cards or moving pieces—you're investing in your psychological well-being.

References:

Horowitz-Kraus, T., & Breznitz, Z. (2009). Can the error detection mechanism benefit from training the working memory? A comparison between dyslexics and controls—An ERP study. PLoS ONE, 4(9), e7141. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0007141

Saxberg, B., Buie, C., & Abbott, C. (2017). The Importance of Laughter in the Workplace. Journal of Psychological Issues in Organizational Culture, 7(1), 12–28.

Takahashi, T., Yoshino, A., & Horiuchi, F. (2016). Relaxing effect of a video game with adaptive difficulty on the brain activity: A functional near-infrared spectroscopy study. NeuroImage, 132, 224–232.

Zichermann, G., & Cunningham, C. (2011). Gamification by Design: Implementing Game Mechanics in Web and Mobile Apps. O'Reilly Media, Inc.

https://books.google.com/books/about/Gamification_by_Design.html?id=Hw9X1miVMMwC

Yeung, M. K., Chan, A. S., & Mok, L. W. (2017). Does playing a puzzle game improve executive functions in older adults? Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 9, 69.