Depression robs you of motivation and makes you feel like you don’t matter. Hobbies can be a necessary source of joy and enthusiasm for people coping with depression. On the days where getting out of bed feels impossible, having a hobby and the promise of enjoying a few hours doing something you love can be the extra push you need to get through the day. Here are some ideas for hobbies to take up to help cope with depression.
Exercise.
You’ve probably heard it before but in addition to keeping you physically fit, exercise can shape up your mental health as well. Exercising releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins that trigger positive feelings. If working out isn’t currently a part of your life, start small, say 10-15 minutes a day being active.
Take care of living things.
Forging connections with living things around you can counter how depression makes you feel unimportant.
- Offer to babysit or pet sit for friends or neighbors
- Get a houseplant
- Build a small garden with flowers or vegetables
Join a group.
Break through how isolated depression can make you feel by spending time with people you have something in common with.
- Volunteer
- Join a book club or create a new one
- Find a support group
- Join a recreational sports team
Get creative.
There’s a particular sense of gratification that comes with making something, which can be a rewarding boost when depression has you feeling down.
- Musical activities like singing or play an instrument
- Drawing or painting
- Crafting
- Knitting, sewing, or crocheting
Whether it’s something you used to love that you’ve lost interest in or an activity that’s totally new to you, having a hobby can help you get back on track and feeling like yourself again.
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