The Power of Play: How Games Boost Mental Health and Wellbeing
In a world filled with stress and constant demands, finding moments of joy and relaxation is essential for maintaining good mental health and overall wellbeing. One such avenue is through games – a diverse and enjoyable way to unwind, engage the mind, and foster social connections. From video games to sports and board games, these playful activities offer numerous mental health benefits. In this article, we will explore how games can be a powerful tool to boost mental health and promote overall wellbeing.- Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement
Games, whether they are video games, board games, or outdoor activities, serve as excellent stress-relievers. Engaging in gameplay triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and tension. Games offer an escape from daily worries, providing individuals with a chance to immerse themselves in a different world, be it a virtual reality or a competitive sports field. - Cognitive Stimulation and Brain Health
Numerous studies have shown that games can significantly impact cognitive function, helping to keep the mind sharp and agile. Video games, in particular, have been associated with improved problem-solving skills, enhanced spatial awareness, and increased attention span. Additionally, games that require strategic thinking and planning, like chess and puzzles, can help maintain cognitive abilities and reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults.
- Social Interaction and Community Building
Multiplayer video games and group board games provide opportunities for social interaction and community building. Engaging in collaborative gameplay allows individuals to connect with friends, family, and even strangers who share similar interests. These interactions can reduce feelings of loneliness and create a sense of belonging, especially for those who may have difficulty forming social connections in other contexts. - Boosting Resilience and Perseverance
Games often present challenges and obstacles that require players to persevere and overcome adversity. Whether it’s completing a difficult level in a video game or strategizing to win a board game, the sense of achievement after overcoming challenges can boost self-confidence and resilience. Learning to cope with failure and setbacks in a game setting can also translate into real-life scenarios, promoting a growth mindset and adaptability. - Emotional Regulation and Expression
Certain games, like role-playing games (RPGs) or storytelling games, allow players to explore complex emotions and experiences in a safe and controlled environment. By immersing themselves in different characters and scenarios, players can gain insights into their own emotions and develop healthier emotional regulation strategies. Additionally, cooperative games can encourage open communication and expression of feelings among players, fostering emotional connections and empathy.
Games, in their various forms, offer a multitude of mental health benefits, making them an invaluable tool for improving overall wellbeing. From reducing stress and enhancing cognitive function to promoting social connections and emotional expression, the power of play should not be underestimated. However, it is essential to strike a balance and ensure that gaming remains a healthy and enjoyable activity. By incorporating games into our lives mindfully, we can harness their positive potential and create a harmonious space for relaxation, growth, and connection. We at Flourishing Minds Clinic strongly believe in creating a community of wellness that can enjoy the power of play to boost their mental health. Join our monthly Game Time for Wellness segment in collaboration with Marriot Executive Apartments at Campagnia Caffe, every 3rd Saturday of the month.
Bhavna is an embodiment of expression in Hindi, and what better way to convey her feelings than through the art of dance and movement. From the tender age of 5, she has dedicated her life to learning, practicing, and performing various dance forms from around the world. Dance has been her refuge, helping her navigate through pain, hurt, and worries, ultimately leading her to the path of sharing this wisdom through rhythm and movement therapy. With over 22 years of teaching experience, Bhavna has transformed numerous students, spanning kids, adults, and children with autism, using movement as a medium for both enjoyment and meditation. She firmly believes that movement serves as a non-verbal language that connects body, mind, and soul, enabling individuals to express their inner selves. As a Visharad in Indian classical dance and holding certifications in yoga, Pilates, fitness, and a diploma in special needs education, Bhavna is well-equipped to guide others on their transformative journey through dance and movement.
In her professional capacity as the Director at the Child Development Center (CDC) for Special Needs, Kamila’s role involves supervising the provision of multi-disciplinary therapy services for children with autism and related developmental disorders. Kamila strongly believes in the provision of trauma-informed, empathetic, and child- and parent-centered therapy, which includes approaches such as music therapy, play-based ABA therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy and occupational therapy. Kamila is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), who holds a Masters degree in Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, and is currently completing her doctorate in Education with a special focus on mental health and wellbeing of mothers of children with autism. At CDC, Kamila has incorporated approaches such as mindfulness and music therapy for reducing anxiety, stress, and enhancing emotional regulation and overall mental wellbeing among children and parents of children with autism disabilities and therapists.
A pioneer and coach, she is the founder of the be.fit180o team and the QAthletics Academy. She is the first Qatari coach targeting age groups from 4 to 14 years old for running and jumping since 2019. She holds a diploma in sports club and sports institution management and is a Level 3 running and fitness coach.
Iain Tulley spent 35 years in UK Healthcare, 15 years as Chief Executive.
Moses is a Physical Literacy and Physical Activity Champion, with vast experience, of over 18 years in youth empowerment, community development, project planning, project implementation, networking, resource mobilization, and working at different levels from grassroots, national, and international levels. He has extensive experience working with diverse groups of individuals in both local and global capacities.
Amna AlMuhannadi is a certified Ayurvedic lifestyle instructor and a psychological and social counselor with over a decade of experience in the field of health and wellness. She is recognized as an influencer in promoting healthy living and wellness tourism.
Dr. Mohammed Jaham Al-Kuwari boasts a remarkable career as both a General and bariatric Surgeon and a prominent figure in the world of sports administration.
Dr. Ghuloum is a Senior Consultant Psychiatrist at Hamad Medical Corporation, Professor at Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, and an Associate Professor of clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar.
Joanna, a wife and mom of three boys, spent over a decade calling Qatar home. Transitioning from the corporate world, she recently embarked on a new journey, becoming a business owner specializing in digital marketing. Beyond her professional pursuits, Joanna is a passionate advocate for mental health, emphasizing the significance of work-life balance and prioritizing self-care for mothers, readily sharing her experiences through her blog, “Mama in Transit”.
Shefa, with over 15 years of corporate experience, is a leading figure in coaching and motivation in Qatar. Her background in corporate communications and her roles as a Life & Business Coach, Motivational Speaker, and Wellness Advocate have made her a sought-after expert. She divides her time between consulting, coaching, workshops, and delivering keynotes for various organizations. Shefa is also a prolific writer and editor, contributing to publications like The Conversation by Amanda de Cadenet and a weekly column in Gulf Times, a prominent newspaper in Qatar. Her diverse client base includes organizations across multiple industries.
Dr. Nelli El-Ghazal holds a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the Pennsylvania State University and serves as a Child and Adolescent Psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry, with an instructional role at Weill Cornell Medical College. Her extensive background encompasses experience in the U.S. school system and private practice. Since joining Sidra in 2017, her clinical focus has revolved around addressing school-related emotional and behavioral challenges, as well as devising solutions for diverse learning and psychological needs. Dr. El-Ghazal actively collaborates with local schools to establish mental health support programs and frequently conducts training for parents, students, and faculty at educational institutions. She has also contributed as a guest lecturer at HMC and the Doha Institute of Graduate Studies, and she holds an associate editor position with an international school psychology journal.
French adventurer and endurance athlete, living in Doha for the past 15 years.
Former Qatar athletic and Coach.