Why don’t we play anymore?
When we picture play, we often imagine children running, laughing, and swinging - pure joy in motion. Yet for adults, play is just as vital, though it’s frequently pushed aside as frivolous or indulgent. What does adult play really mean, why it's essential, and why carving out time for it should be a non‑negotiable part of our lives.
What Is Play for an Adult?
At its heart, adult play is any activity that is voluntary, intrinsically motivating, and brings a sense of enjoyment or “flow.” The National Institute for Play defines it as self‑driven and pleasurable, the kind of thing you lose track of time doing - be it a friendly game, a creative project, or an immersive hobby.
This isn’t merely nostalgia. Psychologists have long recognised that adulthood play requires emotional regulation, self‑awareness, and the ability to experience joy without guilt or inhibition.
Why Prioritising Play Should Be Your Baseline
Boosts Mental Resilience and Coping
Engaging in playful experiences supports mental health through positive emotions. The broaden‑and‑build theory of positive psychology posits that joy expands our awareness and builds enduring psychological resources - like creativity, optimism, and resilience.. During tough times, playful reframing - or “lemonading” - can help turn sour experiences into growth opportunities.Enhances Cognitive Health
Playful activities like board games stimulate memory, attention, and comprehension - key cognitive skills. Recent research even links regular play to reduced dementia risk and emotional well‑being, particularly in older adults.Eases Stress and Burnout
In our always-on world, playing isn’t a luxury - it’s mental hygiene. Immersive play, whether through board games, crafting, or even imaginative solo fun, helps reduce stress and rekindle creativity.Strengthens Social Bonds
Play is inherently social. Whether it’s a game night with friends, a silly dance with your partner, or a creative project with the kids - play fosters connection, laughter, and shared experience.Sparks Innovation and Problem‑Solving
When we let go of outcomes and enter a playful state, our minds wander and explore. This kind of creative flow fosters innovation, fresh ideas, and new ways of seeing challenges.
Why Do We Resist Adult Play?
Common barriers include:
Viewing play as an indulgence or waste of time.
Feeling guilty if we’re not “productive.”
Overwhelm and competing demands on our time.
Social norms that associate play with childhood or irresponsibility.
But evidence shows that play is anything but frivolous. It's a powerful mechanism for thriving - not just surviving.
How to Make Time for Play as a Non-Negotiable
Schedule it like any other essential activity - treat it as a meeting with yourself.
Choose play that resonates with you - whether low-effort (like puzzles or music) or active (sport, dance, art).
Integrate play into your day: a 10-minute creative break, a quick sketch, or spontaneous laughter with a partner or child.
Reconnect with childhood joys: board games, dress-ups, imaginative storytelling, or building something with your hands.
Use playful rituals: weekend games, monthly art nights, or a silly daily habit that brings delight.
Reclaim Joy In Your Life!
Life’s pressures often push play to the margins, yet it’s one of the simplest, most effective ways to nourish mental and emotional wellbeing. Let curiosity, creativity and connection guide you - make adult play a daily essential.
Authors: Brodi Killen, Stephanie Mace and Samantha Pearce
Educational and Developmental Psychologists and Counselling Psychologist – With You Allied Health Directors