Play, Pause, Protect: Board Games and the Mental Health Conversation We Need

Mental health is no longer a fringe topic. It’s at the core of everything — how we lead, how we show up at work, and how we connect with others.

As someone deeply involved in the world of learning, entrepreneurship, and games for good, I’ve come to realize something powerful:

Play isn’t just fun. It’s therapy. It’s connection. It’s healing.

Why Mental Health Still Matters — Urgently

In fast-paced work cultures — especially where results and performance are constantly prioritized — mental health often takes the back seat. We normalize exhaustion. We glamorize the grind. But beneath the surface, too many professionals are battling burnout, anxiety, loneliness — silently.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Board Games as Tools for Well-being

At first glance, board games might seem like child’s play. But let’s take a closer look.

They spark connection – In a world full of screens, games bring people face to face again. Whether it’s a round of Ludo with family or a session of Catan with friends, games foster presence.

They reduce stress – Play triggers the release of endorphins, our body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals.

They create safe spaces – Tools like Icebreaker Cards help people open up and share — making them powerful additions in teams, classrooms, and even therapy.

They build empathy and emotional intelligence – Through cooperative games or storytelling-based formats, we learn to listen, collaborate, and feel.

When we launched Board Games Cards & Toys Kenya, it wasn’t just about entertainment. It was about using play to promote mental wellness, learning, and connection in a fast-paced world.

My Call to Leaders & Teams

Whether you’re a CEO, a teacher, a parent, or a team lead, here’s my challenge to you this Mental Health Awareness Month:

Reintroduce play into your culture. Game nights, interactive sessions, or just 30 minutes away from screens can transform team dynamics.

Talk about mental health. Pair that talk with tools — games, cards, creative icebreakers — to make conversations more natural.

Protect people’s right to pause. A short break to laugh, reflect, or even play isn’t wasted time. It’s fuel for well-being and better performance.

Let’s Build a Culture That Plays, Connects, and Cares

Mental health isn’t only about therapy or crisis response. It’s also about daily habits, laughter, relationships, and presence.

In our company, we believe games can be the spark that brings people together and gives the mind a moment to breathe.

So today, I ask: When was the last time you really played? Not scrolled. Not binge-watched. But played — with presence, joy, and people you care about?

It might just be the mental reset you (and your team) need.

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