Do you have a hobby?

There’s one question that I always ask a client that is dealing with depression, anxiety, or stress.

“Do you have a hobby or anything that you enjoy doing?”

Now why would I ask that question? Well, there are several reasons.

1. To get to know my client a bit better.

Part of therapy is about the relationship between client and therapist. Asking about hobbies and what they like to do will help me understand what type of person they are.

2. I want to know what helps them get through life.

I would argue that most of us (including me) have some sort of hobby. The one (or multiple) things that we do in order to escape from the daily grind that we all have. Hobbies are a great form of stress relief that brings us joy and we use that joy to move us from day one to day two and further.

3. Current hobbies or potential hobbies can be used as a therapeutic intervention.

This therapeutic intervention being behavioral activation. I would want to use this information to assign “homework” for someone to do outside of therapy.

So here are some reasons why hobbies are important for mental health.

1. Improved Mood

Engaging in a hobby will help elevate your mood by behavioral activation. Behavioral activation involves doing an activity that one finds enjoyable in order to create positive mood, therefore reducing symptoms of depression. It can also help provide a sense of accomplishment, and boost self-esteem which both help counteract feelings of sadness or depression.

2. Mindfulness

Because hobbies sometimes require focused attention, a state of mindfulness can be achieved. Remember that mindfulness isn’t all about sitting and meditating and that a state of mindfulness can be achieved while going a multitude of activities. This state of being present can help reduce anxiety.

3. Social Connection

There are many hobbies that can be done with other people. Sports, classes, clubs, events are just some of the things that one can do to engage in a hobby. These activites can help you build and strengthen relations,and combat loneliness and isolation. All of which can strengthen your mental health.

4. Distraction

Hobbies can be used as a healthy escape from the stresses of life. Engaging In a hobby helps up take a break from the needs and helps us to recharge.

5. Identity

Hobbies can give us a sense of identity which can provide us meaning in life. I guarentee that you aren’t going to be the only one with a certain hobby. Affliating yourself with a hobby community not only gives you something to get a part of, but also helps with connecting with others.

6. Emotional Outlet

Some hobbies, like writing, drawing, dancing, theater, or music provides a means to be able to express emotions. This expression allows us to process our emotions more clearly and it  can help when emotions become challenging. It’s also helpful because we don’t want to bottle up or push back our emotions, we want to be able to feel them completely when they arise.

Hobbies provide relaxation, social interaction, and emotional expression which all support our mental health. Bringing in hobbies to our everyday contributes to a balanced and fulfilling life which is essential to our well being.

As for me. I have a few hobbies.  I like to read manga, watch anime, paint miniatures, dabble in 3d modeling, play and stream video games, and build anime models. I love being able to come home after a long day and wind down with something that I enjoy doing. It’s very therapeutic to not only engage in a hobby, but to also to see a finished “product” such as when I paint and finish a miniature. It makes me feel happy and gives me a sense of accomplishment.

Are you struggling with life's challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking a path to personal growth and healing? Whether it be depression, anxiety, life transitions, or general life stress, I'm here to help. You don't have to go through this journey alone. Start your healing journey now – make that call, send that email, or book your first therapy session. Your well-being is worth it, and there is hope for a happier, healthier you.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this mental health blog is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified mental health professional for personalized guidance. The blog owner and authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided on this blog.

If you are in a crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or visit your local Emergency Room for assistance.