"Mental Health: Self Care and Solo Wargames" Topic

"Self Care isn't just bubble baths and face masks, nor is it just going to Instagram worthy coffee shops and buying lots of expensive things. Of course it can be but it doesn't have to be. Self Care is any action, no matter how big or small, that you take for yourself, in order to maintain and improve your health, wellbeing or wellness and it is really important. For years, self care has been seen as this cheesy saying relating to teen movies or break ups but it is vital that we look after ourselves, physically and mentally.

People play boardgames for a variety of reasons. Of course, because they are fun and transport us to different worlds and different periods of time in history, through stories and theme and immersive experiences, because they connect families and friends all over the world and the list goes on. It's a wonderful hobby with a wonderful community and an abundance of incredible games to play, conventions to go to, forums and websites to be part of and all of the other amazing things that come with the hobby. Despite being such a social hobby though, which does make me incredibly happy, playing solo boardgames is often an act of self care for a lot of people including me. Being an introvert in such a social and demanding community, which don't get me wrong, I love, I sometimes need some time to collect my thoughts and recharge, an escape. Playing solo wargames is a perfect, healthy way for me to do that…."
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Amicalement
Armand

Painting figures and working on projects does that for me. A major part of dealing with my health issues as it gives me something I can control and access to good friends who help me through the dark times.

Good points!!….

Amicalement
Armand

Preparing armies for battle, yes. Building terrain, yes. But doing battle with myself doesn't strike me as the high road to mental health.

"I'll hide the reserves in the woods! I'll never think of looking for them there, so I'll be caught absolutely off-guard!"

OK, yes, I've done it. But still…

I like to paint toy soldiers and tanks …

(smile)

Amicalement
Armand

My solo gaming usually ends up in a fight between the players.

I like solo gaming from time to time just as I enjoy other aspects of the hobby. In the case of miniature gaming most of my solo games are walk throughs to prepare for a game with players. A chance to brush up on the rules, modify or write rules in various cases. That said a solo game itself isn't all that bad and there's no waiting for players to be available.

Agree with robertp there about the painting and building aspects of the hobby, and AICUSV if I were you I would seek professional help.

The only reason I solo game is like Fitz noted to run through the rules and get comfortable using them.

Having a hobby in general is probably good for one's morale, self-esteem and emotional wellness. Most Americans dont seem to have a hobby in the non-commercial sense of the word but I find that hobbies contribute to making life worth living. I would imagine that solo wargaming is a more sophisticated version of solitaire and can certainly both pass the time and act as a form of therapy.