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The Well-Being Value of Sport for Loneliness and Depression

Author

Listed:
  • Jelle Schoemaker
  • Willem De Boer
  • Larissa Davies
  • Themis Kokolakakis

Abstract

This study examines the extent to which participation in sport has a causal effect on subjective well-being among individuals experiencing loneliness and depression. Utilizing longitudinal data from the Dutch LISS panel (2009–2018) with a fixed-effects model to address endogeneity, the analysis explores how hours of sport per week affect happiness for adults between 21–65 years, with interaction effects for severe loneliness and frequent depressive moods. The analysis indicates that an hour of sport per week can mitigate 14% of the SWB deficit experienced by frequent depression and 37% for loneliness. Subsequently, using the Well-being Valuation Approach, this translates to a monthly value of €526 for individuals with frequent depression, and €1,266 per month for loneliness, above the value of sport for an average person (€249). This highlights the potential of sport as ‘well-being medicine’, informing targeted policies and practices to leverage sport for a happier society.

Suggested Citation

  • Jelle Schoemaker & Willem De Boer & Larissa Davies & Themis Kokolakakis, 2026. "The Well-Being Value of Sport for Loneliness and Depression," Journal of Sports Economics, , vol. 27(1), pages 88-115, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jospec:v:27:y:2026:i:1:p:88-115
    DOI: 10.1177/15270025251396496
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    References listed on IDEAS

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