Back when everyone used to get their daily newspaper, many people enjoyed spending time exercising their mind doing a crossword puzzle. However, now that online print has taken over and many people work from home, the tradition of doing a crossword on the commute to or from work has dropped over the last few years.

This is not good news for our mental wellbeing, though, as a few minutes with your puzzle book PDF every day can do wonders for boosting your emotional health.

1) Relieves stress

The number of people in the UK who experience stress regularly is shocking. In fact, The Priory has reported that 74 per cent of adults have experienced such high stress levels over the last year they felt unable to cope.

It also revealed that 79 per cent of grown-ups felt stressed at least once a month, with heavy workloads and economic factors being the main causes of this pressure.

That is why it is important people find an activity that can help them relieve their stress and crosswords are great at doing just that. 

As you have to focus intently on the question, this can distract you from other worries and help you practice being more mindful. 

That is why it is a good idea to do crosswords on the way home from work or after a long day, as this can help the brain unwind and stop it thinking about worries.

2) Encourage social bonds

Whether you do your crossword with someone or you ask them for help on a question, doing a puzzle can encourage social connections. 

Some people struggle with small talk or making meaningful conversation with loved ones, especially after a long day. However, discussing a puzzle can make talking much easier, as it is a good conversation starter with people you’ve only just met, as well as loved ones. 

Building these social bonds is essential for good mental health, as NHS Inform states they provide a sense of purpose, belonging and self-worth. They also give you someone to share your feelings with when you need to. 

3) Rewarding

It is very satisfying when you complete a crossword, providing your brain with a dopamine hit. Low levels of dopamine are linked with depression, so being able to trigger this neurotransmitter from a sense of accomplishment can lift spirits and give you a boost