Decline of Play Caused an Increase on Mental Health Disorders Among Children

Most children are being pressured to invest their time on studying instead of play. Though most parents would prioritize education, little did they know that lack of play can potentially increase the child's risk of developing mental health disorders.

A study published in the Journal of Play, the author Peter Grey highlighted that children who are not given the privilege of play are most likely to develop mental health disorders. Children in nature should be given a chance to explore through play.

Play is necessary for children to develop their cognitive, emotional and sensory skills. Children who were not given a chance to play may develop mental health issues including depression, anxiety, narcissism and other mental health related concerns.

Through play, children are given the chance to explore and venture the world around them. It is their way of de-stressing as they learn at the same time. Play lets the children develop their creativity, which is often barred by school work.

In his study focused on children and play, it was revealed that in the United States and other well-developed countries, it was mentioned that lesser time is a lot for children to play and explore on their own. As the hours of playtime among children decline, a significant increase of children diagnosed with mental health disorders reached an alarming state. It was discovered that children who spent less time playing suffered from depression, anxiety, suicide, and narcissism.

It came into conclusion that play has a significant effect on a child's psychological health. It helps them with their decision making, problem solving skills, self-control and more.

A mother shared her story on Washington Post as to how lack of play affected her daughter. The decline of play not only affected her child's social skills, Angela Hanscom also shared that her child also suffered from sensory issues.

"Kids are just different," Hanscom said. "When I asked her to clarify, she said, "They are more easily frustrated - often crying at the drop of a hat." I see children who were frequently falling out of their seats "at least three times a day," less attentive, and running into each other and even the walls. "It is so strange. You never saw these issues in the past."