These can have devastating effects that may spiral out of control leading to depression, despair, loneliness or social isolation, if positive steps to mitigate such feelings and emotions are not undertaken (Rentoul, 1997).
Through increased participation in leisure activities, the individual can develop and maintain positive coping mechanisms that can provide flexibility and emotional stability (Bromley, 1990, as cited by Rentoul, 1997). This allows the individual to be in control in the event of such instances as a decline in personal independence, or social standing (due to changes in working relationships) or a loss of cognitive functioning. For example, the loss of ones own self image through the process of retirement can create disorientation for the individual leading to such things as lower self esteem and depression over ones lost status as one struggles to come to terms with their personal situation and reorientates themselves within the world. The use of leisure can bring new meaning and social acceptance for the individual as they struggle to adjust and resolve their constraints associated with their new position within society. This then provides opportunity for the individual to better cope with such occurrences, therefore minimising opportunity for the individual to develop symptoms that are associated with ill mental health. Social withdrawal of the individual from society and their peers is associated with problems in cognitive development and mental health problems therefore inclusive leisure experiences and social interaction helps to eliminate social isolation while enhancing support, intimacy and comfort (Rentoul, 1997). According to leisure research, leisure participation and productive activities undertaken by the