PLAY TIME
As scientists reveal the powerful effects of fun on our wellbeing, isn’t it time we all took pure, simple enjoyment a bit more seriously?
WORDS SALLY BROWN
LIVING WELL
THE FEEL GOOD
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Here is your official permission to never feel guilty about taking time out to simply have fun, or do something purely for enjoyment: it’s a mental health necessity. Doing things you enjoy is as effective at treating the symptoms of depression as talking therapy, according to a new study from the University of Exeter. Known as ‘behavioural activation’, it involves identifying things that really make you smile (as opposed to things you think you ought to enjoy), then simply doing more of them, whether that’s salsa dancing, gardening, karaoke, or cuddling your dog. Researchers found that having fun reduced symptoms of depression by 50 per cent in two thirds of people.
We know that children thrive on fun, but we’re finally realising that pleasure is also vital for adults. ‘Remembering We know that children thrive on fun, but we’re finally realising that pleasure is also vital for adults. ‘Remembering