It is very common for people to suffer from depression. As it has become more recognized, it is understood that everyone who suffers from depression deals with it in varying degrees and different ways. Being proactive is one of the best ways to combat this mental illness. Along with helpful treatments like therapy, medication, exercise, and relaxation, meaningful hobbies can help reduce the effects of depression by driving your mind into creative pursuits. If you do not have one already, finding an enjoyable hobby can make your life brighter. You don’t have to go it alone—to get you started, here’s my list of the best hobbies to help fight depression.
Painting, Drawing, and Sculpting
Diving deeper into your artistic pursuits can be incredibly relaxing and healthy for your mind. Scientific studies have continued to prove that stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as other mood disturbances, can be significantly reduced when you engage your mind. Drawing, painting, or sculpting as your outlet for creative expression can vastly improve your psychological wellbeing. Consider exploring these and taking some classes if you are new to them.
Playing and Writing Music
If you have experience playing a musical instrument, combating depression would be a great reason to continue on with this venture. If you have never played an instrument, this is a great time to start trying to learn one. The sound of music can not only be soothing, but it can also be therapeutic to create. Music is something an artist can pour their emotions into, which can help alleviate stress. Deciding to set goals to reach higher skill levels can help you find confidence in yourself. Cultivating newfound confidence through your creativity can help you find the same reassurance in other areas of your life. Starting off with lessons can be a great way to start playing a new instrument.
Writing
There are many forms of writing. If you don’t like one, you can try others. And any form of writing including journaling, fiction, and poetry can be therapeutic. Writing can be helpful to just get your thoughts and feelings out on paper. Seeing your innermost thoughts written out in front of you can also help you in processing these feelings. In addition, fiction writing can provide a wonderful escape from the typical daily grind.
Sewing and Crafting
One of the best hobbies to help fight depression on this list is crafting, as there are so many creative options within it. Whether you want to start a knitting project, make a quilt, design some decorations, or make homemade candles or soap, crafting is a great way to explore your creative mind. Many of these activities can help to promote and implement mindfulness, a method used to calm and relax your mind when dealing with anxiety or depression. There are many great and simple ways to get into crafting if you are new to the hobby.
