Board Games Are Here to Save the Loneliness Epidemic

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; We grow old because we stop playing.” — George Bernard Shaw

There is hype that we are going through a loneliness epidemic. Some stats are showing Americans are feeling lonelier than ever before. There are a host of reasons for this shift, with many pointing at the effects of technology and feelings of being overworked. Almost all recommended remedies point to more quality relationships. A great way to do this is to play board games with friends and family.

The drastic rise in loneliness has been referred to as a public health crisis¹. Even though that might sound like a bit of an exaggeration, people refer to scientific research which highlights about one in two adults in America reported experiencing loneliness². That means 50% of the population has been lonely. The reality of loneliness can be found in the disconnection from healthy social and relational expectations and desires. To overcome this, you need to focus on the quality of relationships, not the quantity. 73% of people pointed to technology as contributing to loneliness in the country³. This is no surprise, as social media can cause far more harm than good and doesn’t usually build quality connections⁴.

There are a few ways to combat loneliness such as exercise, good sleeping habits, and making time for yourself. The biggest of these remedies is to nurture your quality connections by spending time with friends and family. Leave it to us nerds to figure out a solution: board games⁵. Board games create a great atmosphere of interaction by allowing both kids and adults to practice social skills, and are shown to help alleviate anxiety⁶. Additionally, it’s a fun way to support critical thinking and creativity.

There are table top games available in every flavor. This allows you to get as nerdy or basic as you like. Pick a time and date to host some friends and family for a board game night. A pro tip is to let people know the planned games beforehand so they can brush up on their knowledge. Then let the dice and/or cards fall where they may.

Action: Host a board game night.

Further Reading:

1. Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation
2. The Loneliness Epidemic: Escape Post-pandemic Social Isolation
3. What is Causing Our Epidemic of Loneliness and How Can We Fix It?
4. Just How Harmful Is Social Media? Our Experts Weigh-In.
5. Nerds have found the cure for America’s loneliness epidemic
6. What’s Old Is New: Board Games Can Be a Lifeline in Lockdown