"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.
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July 28 Issue
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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."