2024 study shows playing Dungeons and Dragons has profoundly positive impact on mental health.
A small cohort of D & D players were surveyed and monitored during eight weeks of play showing some very promising results.
“Participants demonstrated significant decreases in depression, stress, and anxiety and significant increases in self-esteem and self-efficacy over the study periodâ€.
After an initial popularity in the ‘80s, these games were only enjoyed by pure enthusiasts until experiencing a massive resurgence during Covid. I believe studies such as this are showing why with a solid mix of distraction, agency, positive feedback loops and socialization, D&D (and similar RPGs) provides a meaningful and lasting boost to mental health. Â
