Why Being Bored Is Good For Your Mental Health

Thank you for listening and supporting This Might Help.On today's show, we're talking all about boredom and why we need to let our minds wander. We're also unpacking why tech, and our phones in particular, are making this so much harder.You can find us on socials @thismighthelppodcast - ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTokThe full video version of this episode is available on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@thismighthelppodcastSome of the key research we chat about can be found below:Article we mention in detail: Tam, K., & Inzlicht, M. People are increasingly bored in our digital age. Communications Psychology, 2, 106 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44271-024-00155-9Mann, S., & Cadman, R. (2014). Does being bored make us more creative? Creativity Research Journal, 26(2), 165-173. https://doi.org/10.1080/10400419.2014.901073Mooneyham, B. W., & Schooler, J. W. (2013). The costs and benefits of mind-wandering: A review. Canadian Journal of Experimental Psychology, 67(1), 11-18. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0031569Tariq, I., Shahzadi, I., Waheed, A., & Riaz, S. (2025). Effect of digital detoxification on psychological well-being: A newer health and wellness trend in the current era. Contemporary Journal of Social Science Review, 3(2), 62.Westgate, E. C., & Wilson, T. D. (2018). Boring thoughts and bored minds: The MAC model of boredom and cognitive engagement. Psychological Review, 125(5), 689-713. https://doi.org/10.1037/rev0000097Some additional resources can be found here:https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/03/well/boredom-inspiration-mindfulness.htmlIf you or a loved one needs further support, we strongly encourage you to speak with your GP, psychologist, or another qualified healthcare professional.Additional support can be found through:Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au 1300 22 4636 LifeLine - https://988lifeline.org/get-help/ 13 11 14 Headspace - https://headspace.org.au 1800 650 890 (for those aged 25 or under)