Around tables cluttered with dice, maps, and character sheets, players are doing far more than playing, according to a recent article on Phys.org. Sociologists refer to this as ‘serious leisure’—a hobby that demands skill, commitment, and personal fulfillment. Associate Professor Emily Messina of Florida International University’s Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy Program studies how games like D&D promote identity-building and connection among participants. Beyond personal expression, Messina argues that the social and emotional benefits of D&D reflect the core value of serious leisure: the sense of identity, the relationships built through shared experiences, and the continuity of group interaction over time.
The game offers additional benefits for individuals managing mental health conditions who may struggle to maintain a full-time job due to their symptoms. D&D provides a structured routine that can replace passive activities like binge-streaming, offering a sense of purpose and engagement. Activities such as D&D can also be beneficial for younger children as a reward structure or for older adults, such as retirees, to help provide a sense of purpose and daily rhythm. Messina warns that post-retirement is one of the most dangerous transitions for adults, as retirees often experience a loss of structure and social connection. Research suggests that building structure through leisure pursuits after retirement can help maintain physical fitness, social interaction, cognitive processing, attention span, and reduce the risk of depression. Messina concludes that the idea of combining structure and reward through desired pursuits can be effective for all age groups.
The study, which was published in *Leisure Studies*, is part of a growing body of research examining the therapeutic potential of leisure activities. The findings emphasize the importance of structured, meaningful engagement in promoting mental and physical well-being, particularly in vulnerable populations such as retirees and those with mental health conditions. As interest in D&D continues to grow, its potential to offer more than just entertainment is becoming increasingly evident, highlighting the game’s role in fostering connection, purpose, and long-term well-being.