We all know that staying active, eating well, and connecting with others are great ways to boost our mental health. But what if there was a fun, lesser-known activity that could do even more for your well-being?
According to a recent study from Cambridge University, regular cultural outings—like visiting a museum, attending a show, or watching a movie—could dramatically reduce the risk of depression. The research, published in The British Journal of Psychiatry, followed 2,000 British adults over the age of 50 for a decade. The findings were eye-opening: those who regularly enjoyed cultural activities were far less likely to experience depression.
Just one outing every few months reduced the risk by 32%, while making it a monthly habit cut the risk by nearly 50%.
You might be thinking, “That sounds great, but can everyone really access cultural outings like that?” It’s true that cultural activities often require time, money, or both. But the study took this into account and controlled for wealth—and the results still stood. It wasn’t about privilege or resources; it was about the actual impact of engaging with culture.
Daisy Fancourt, the lead author of the study, expressed surprise at how strong the results were. “People know the benefits of eating well and exercising, but there’s very little awareness that cultural activities can have similar positive effects on mental health,” she said.
So, what exactly is it about cultural outings that have such a profound effect on our mental well-being? Experts suggest it’s a combination of factors: social interaction, creativity, mental stimulation, and even light physical activity. When you engage with culture, you’re not just sitting back and relaxing—you’re stimulating your mind and often interacting with others in a meaningful way.
In fact, pilot projects in the U.K. and Canada have prescribed trips to art museums for people dealing with anxiety and depression—and the results were positive. Scientists have also found that visiting art exhibits triggers the release of hormones that promote well-being, while the sense of awe experienced in the presence of art can lower stress and improve mood.
The great news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money or travel far to reap these benefits. You don’t need to buy tickets to an expensive concert or Broadway show to see results. A trip to your local art gallery, a community theater performance, or even a movie at a theater will do wonders for your mental health.
The research is clear: cultural experiences aren’t just enjoyable—they’re beneficial for your mental health. Consider making a simple, but impactful resolution: once a month, carve out time to enjoy some culture. Whether it’s art, theater, music, connecting with friends or simply a film that sparks your interest, committing to cultural activities is an easy and enjoyable way to boost your mood and reduce your risk of depression.
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