THE IMPORTANCE OF PLEASURE

When we talk about mental health, much of the focus tends to land on managing stress, overcoming anxiety, or coping with depression. While these are undeniably important areas, there's a critical and often overlooked component of mental well-being: pleasure. Experiencing pleasure—whether through simple joys or deeper satisfaction—is not just a nice bonus in life; it's a fundamental part of maintaining good mental health.

At its core, pleasure is the brain’s way of rewarding us for engaging in behaviours that support our survival and well-being. Enjoying a delicious meal, laughing with a friend, feeling the sun on your skin, or accomplishing a personal goal—all of these activate the brain’s reward system, particularly the release of dopamine. This not only makes us feel good in the moment but also reinforces positive behaviours and helps regulate mood over time.

In today's productivity-driven culture, many people deprioritise pleasure in favour of achievement. We’re often taught to push through exhaustion, ignore our desires, and view rest or enjoyment as indulgent or unproductive. But without regular experiences of joy and satisfaction, life can become emotionally flat and mentally draining. Chronic pleasure deprivation can contribute to burnout, anxiety, and even depression.

Research in the field of positive psychology supports this idea. Studies show that people who engage regularly in pleasurable activities tend to have lower stress levels, improved emotional regulation, and greater life satisfaction. These activities don’t need to be extravagant—small, consistent pleasures like listening to music, spending time in nature, or practicing a favourite hobby can significantly boost mental resilience.

Moreover, the experience of pleasure helps us connect with the present moment. In psychological terms, this is related to mindfulness, or the ability to stay grounded in the now. When we fully immerse ourselves in something enjoyable, our minds often quiet down. We stop ruminating about the past or worrying about the future and instead allow ourselves to feel. This sense of presence is deeply restorative and can break cycles of negative thinking that fuel mental health issues.

It’s also worth noting that the absence of pleasure—or anhedonia—is a hallmark symptom of clinical depression. This speaks volumes about how vital pleasure is to our psychological well-being. Reintroducing pleasurable experiences is often one of the first steps in recovery, even if they don’t feel rewarding at first. Over time, these activities can help "rewire" the brain and rebuild emotional vitality.

Cultivating pleasure is not about chasing constant highs or ignoring life's challenges. It’s about intentionally weaving moments of joy, comfort, and meaning into daily life. By doing so, we nourish our emotional selves, create balance, and build mental strength that helps us face difficulties with greater resilience.

Ultimately, pleasure isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. In making space for pleasure, we honour our humanity and give ourselves the best chance to thrive, mentally and emotionally. So, take that walk, laugh out loud, eat the cake, dance to the song—your mental health depends on it.

What brings you the most joy in your daily life?