Trying a bit of culture can brighten you up – especially if you are a man

Researchers found that cultural activities – and being creative in music or art – is good for both genders, improving health, life satisfaction and lowering the risk of depression.

But men who enjoyed attending cultural events seemed to benefit the most – more so than if they were creative themselves.

Norwegian researchers used questionnaires to assess the state of health, satisfaction with life, anxiety and depression levels of more than 50,000 people.

They were asked questions about “receptive” cultural activities, including how often in the last six months they had been to a museum or art exhibition, a concert/theatre/film, a church/chapel or sporting event.

They were also asked about “creative” cultural activities including club meetings, taking part in music/singing/theatre, parish work, outdoor activities, dance and sports.

Overall, cultural activities were significantly associated with good health and satisfaction with life. The more often people visited cultural places or were creative themselves, the more benefits were seen.

The research is published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.