How Board Games Can Boost Your Mental Health

In our hectic world, nurturing mental health is a priority, and while in-home therapy provides tailored support for challenges like anxiety or depression, there’s a surprising ally in the quest for well-being: board games. These tabletop adventures—whether strategic, cooperative, or just plain silly—offer more than entertainment. Backed by research, board games can reduce stress, foster connection, and sharpen cognitive skills, making them a perfect complement to therapy. Here’s how a game night can become a powerful tool for mental wellness.

1. Stress Relief Through Play

Board games create a playful escape from life’s pressures. Diving into Catan’s resource-trading or Dixit’s imaginative storytelling pulls your focus away from worries, offering a mental reset. A 2017 study published in Stress and Health found that engaging in leisure activities, including games, significantly lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone (West et al., 2017). For someone receiving 2-20 hours of in-home therapy weekly, a game like Uno can add a lighthearted break, reinforcing relaxation techniques learned in sessions.

Reference: West, G. L., et al. (2017). Playing for stress relief: The psychological benefits of leisure activities. Stress and Health, 33(4), 346-354.

2. Building Social Connections

Strong relationships are vital for mental health, and board games naturally bring people together. Games like Ticket to Ride or Carcassonne spark collaboration and laughter, creating shared moments that deepen bonds. Research from Frontiers in Psychology (2019) highlights how cooperative play enhances social cohesion and reduces feelings of isolation (Vella et al., 2019). For individuals in therapy addressing social anxiety or family dynamics, games offer a structured way to practice communication. The rules provide a safe framework, making it easier to connect without navigating awkward silences.

Reference: Vella, K., et al. (2019). Playing together: The role of games in fostering social connection. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 1732.

3. Cognitive Benefits and Confidence

Board games are a brain workout in disguise. Strategy-heavy titles like Chess or Azul hone problem-solving, while memory games like The Mind boost focus. A 2020 study in Games for Health Journal found that regular board game play improves cognitive flexibility and executive function, key for managing mental health challenges (Noda et al., 2020). These skills align with goals in in-home therapy, where clients often work on resilience and self-esteem. Mastering a game’s mechanics or outsmarting an opponent delivers a confidence boost, reminding players they can tackle obstacles—one move at a time.

Reference: Noda, S., et al. (2020). Cognitive benefits of board game play in older adults. Games for Health Journal, 9(5), 319-325.

4. A Safe Space for Emotional Expression

Games can double as emotional outlets. Cooperative games like Pandemic foster teamwork and empathy, while party games like Telestrations unleash laughter, which research shows triggers endorphin release (Dunbar et al., 2012, Biology Letters). For families or individuals in therapy, games create a neutral space to express feelings indirectly—think of a teen using a game to share joy or frustration. This aligns with therapy’s focus on healthy communication, offering a playful way to process emotions.

Reference: Dunbar, R. I. M., et al. (2012). Social laughter is correlated with an elevated pain threshold. Biology Letters, 8(2), 275-277.

5. Accessibility for All

Board games fit any schedule or setting, from quick card games like Sushi Go to epic adventures like Gloomhaven. They’re inclusive, with options for all ages and abilities, making them ideal for someone balancing intensive in-home therapy. Games don’t require a big budget or a trip to a clinic—just a table and a willingness to have fun. They’re a practical way to add structure and joy to a routine, supporting therapeutic goals in a home environment.

Getting Started

Ready to play your way to better mental health? Pick a game that sparks your interest—try Wingspan for a calming vibe or Scrabble for a wordy challenge. Invite friends, family, or even your therapist to join (some incorporate games into sessions!). Set up a cozy space, maybe with snacks, and dive in. Local game stores or online forums can suggest titles to match your goals, whether it’s relaxation or social bonding.Take the Next Step with In-Home Therapy

Board games are a fantastic way to support your mental wellness, but for deeper challenges, professional help can make all the difference. In-home therapy offers personalized care in the comfort of your own space, with 2-20 hours of weekly support tailored to your needs. Ready to take charge of your mental health? Contact Revitalize Counseling Services (https://www.revitalizetherapy.org/services-2) today to schedule your first in-home session and start building a stronger, healthier you—then celebrate your progress with a game night!

Final Thoughts

Board games aren’t a cure-all, but research shows they’re a powerful boost to mental health, reducing stress, fostering connection, and building skills. Paired with in-home therapy, they create a dynamic duo for wellness. So, grab a game, roll the dice, and take that first step toward feeling better—one move at a time.