"No one has measured the effect on neurotransmitters if you don't play. But there is a reasonable biological parallelism between sleep deficiency and play deficiency, which is why I think play is a public health necessity. Play deficiency, from my standpoint, is a very real phenomenon." - Dr. Stuart Brown, psychiatrist and founder of the National Institute of Play.
July 28 Issue
Diane Harris
Deputy Editor
Play is not just for kids. As the nation grapples with an epidemic of loneliness and Americans now work more hours than a 14th century peasant, a growing body of scientific research shows that play is as fundamental to grown-up physical and mental health as it is to children. This week's cover story explores the latest findings and solutions. As one expert put it: "People need more joy in their lives."
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