Unlocking adult joy for mental health

PLAYTIME ISN’T JUST FOR KIDS

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

WHAT if the secret to better health, less stress, and a happier life wasn’t another productivity hack, but a return to something much simpler: play?

Let's face it, adults are experts at being busy. Deadlines, bills, and endless to-do lists often crowd out the simple pleasures that once filled our days.

But science is clear, play isn’t just for children. It’s a powerful, understated tool for mental health, emotional resilience, and genuine joy at any age.

Our lives often become stressful as adults due to deadlines and juggling life stressors, explains local registered counsellor Sue-Lee Henning. We forget to take breaks and have fun. Play has been proven to help reduce stress, improve emotional regulation and increase overall life fulfilment.

That's not just wishful thinking. Research published in The American Journal of Play shows that play can boost creativity, sharpen memory, improve mood, and even strengthen social bonds, which are benefits adults need just as much as kids do.

The cost of not playing