Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) has long been celebrated for its imaginative gameplay and rich storytelling. A recent study by University College Cork (UCC), published in the International Journal of Role-Playing, delves into the psychosocial benefits of D&D, highlighting its positive impact on mental health. In this blog post I’ll be summarising the study's findings, how they relate to my own experiences and how you can regularly play D&D in London in venues like RPG Taverns, clubs like RP Haven and the role of organisations like Game Therapy UK in fostering a supportive gaming community.
Understanding the Study
"Roll for Insight: Understanding How the Experience of Playing Dungeons & Dragons Impacts the Mental Health of a Frequent Player" identifies five key themes that illustrate how D&D benefits mental well-being:
Escapism: Players use D&D as a way to escape daily stresses, finding mental relief and a sense of control within the game's narrative.
Exploration of Self: The game allows players to explore different facets of their identity, boosting self-confidence and encouraging personal growth.
Creative Expression: D&D offers a creative outlet, enhancing imagination and problem-solving skills through character creation and storytelling.
Social Support: The game fosters strong social bonds, creating a supportive community that helps reduce feelings of isolation.
Routine: Regular gameplay provides stability and something to look forward to, positively impacting mental health by establishing a consistent routine.
When I first got talked into playing Dungeons and Dragons, I was sceptical. I was looking for a new hobby, and some friends had suggested I might like D&D. " But I’m not a nerd,” I insisted, “there’s no way this will be for me” but, after a few months of gentle persuasion, I finally found myself searching for “Dungeons & Dragons near me,” and, well, the rest is history.
Being able to lose myself completely for a few hours a week, to feel the freedom to put on a silly voice (yes, my characters all have voices) and make decisions that I myself would never make, really does provide a cathartic experience.
There’s something about the escapism that you just don’t quite get from video games, and whilst I know Baldur's Gate 3 has taken the world by storm, there’s something different about sitting around a table of strangers (and friends), all with the mindset of wanting to have as much fun as possible.
The social aspect is something I wasn’t quite expecting to be as prominent as it is, but in the last few months, I’ve made a number of friends I would have never met had it not been for D&D (one, in particular, has become a close friend who I now see more outside of our venue than in it!).
Not only that but it’s allowed me to reconnect with an old friend whom I rarely get to see (outside of birthdays and weddings). D&D has opened a new door to our friendship, and I’m now seeing him more than ever before. I feel like it’s rekindled a closeness that we’ve not had since college, which has certainly been a massive benefit to my mental health, and I know he feels the same.
Having an active social life I do struggle to stick to a weekly, or even monthly, date for anything - which is why RPG Taverns has proven perfect for my busy schedule, it allows me to have an element of routine, but without the pressure of a regular commitment.
Finding this study was really exciting and I have to shout out The Debrief for alerting me to its existence.
I wanted to give a nod to Game Therapy UK, which is a wonderful charity that uses tabletop role-playing games like D&D to support mental health. They offer sessions designed to improve social skills, reduce anxiety, and provide a safe space for creative expression. Their approach aligns with the findings of the UCC study, demonstrating the practical benefits of integrating D&D into therapeutic contexts, and given the recent conversations we’ve been having with them, I couldn’t not mention their great work.
For those interested in trying out Dungeons & Dragons in London, you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s a lot easier than you might think.
Playing Dungeons & Dragons in London
London is home to a vibrant D&D community, offering numerous opportunities for regular gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, there's a place for you to dive into the world of Dungeons & Dragons. You can find a number of different meetup groups online, but of course, the place you can play most regularly (Tuesday>Sunday) is with us.
At RPG Taverns, we understand the profound impact that D&D can have on mental health. Our venue in SE1, London, (recently featured in Southwark News), provides an inclusive and supportive environment for both new and experienced players. Here’s what you can expect:
Regular Sessions: We host regular D&D sessions with experienced Gamemasters who guide you through engaging adventures.
Inclusive Community: Our focus is on creating a safe space where everyone feels welcome.
All Materials Provided: From the D&D Player's Handbook to dice and character sheets, we supply everything you need to play, making it more of a stress-free environment.
Private rooms: To really let yourself go
Table service: To keep your focus on the game (and quench your thirst in the process)
How to Book: Book your session now
I also wanted to bring the readers' attention to RP Haven which is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting tabletop role-playing games, including D&D. They host various events across London, creating a community-driven experience that fosters inclusivity and support. RP Haven offers a space where players of all levels can come together, share stories, and build friendships.
Visit RP Haven: RP Haven
How to Get Started with D&D
If you're new to Dungeons & Dragons, here's a quick guide to help you get started:
D&D Player's Handbook: This is your go-to resource for understanding the game’s rules, creating characters, and learning about the world of D&D. It's an essential tool for both new and experienced players.
DnDBeyond: This digital toolset offers everything you need to create characters, manage campaigns, and access rules online. It's perfect for players who prefer a digital interface.
Find a D&D Group in London: Whether you're looking for a D&D group near you or interested in joining a larger community, London offers numerous options. Platforms like Meetup, Facebook groups, and local gaming shops can help you find like-minded adventurers.
Engaging in the D&D Community
Joining a D&D group in London can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Here are some tips for finding and joining a group:
Online Platforms: Use sites like Meetup to find D&D groups in London. Search for terms like "D&D London" or "Dungeons and Dragons London" to find events and sessions.
Local Game Stores: Shops like Orc’s Nest often have bulletin boards with information on local games and groups.
RPG Taverns: Join our community events and themed nights to meet other players and immerse yourself in the game.
Conclusion
The study by University College Cork underscores the mental health benefits of playing Dungeons & Dragons, highlighting its potential for escapism, self-exploration, creative expression, social support, and routine. Whether you’re interested in therapeutic gaming sessions with Game Therapy UK or looking to join a regular game at RPG Taverns in London, there are ample opportunities to experience the magic of D&D.
Playing Dungeons & Dragons can be a transformative experience that enhances mental health and fosters a supportive community. Ready to start your adventure? Join us at RPG Taverns and discover how D&D can enrich your life.
For more details on the study, visit the International Journal of Role-Playing.
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