How you spend your time can have a huge impact on your mental health. If you’re constantly stressed out by school, worried about the future, or struggling with depression or anxiety, having an outlet that doesn’t cause more stress can actually help your mental health.
Finding hobbies for mental health doesn’t have to be yet another thing on your to-do list. Think about what you already like to do and what makes you feel at peace, and try to make those things part of your regular routine. Teen mental health matters, and taking time for yourself can help you feel more balanced and less overwhelmed.
Finding Hobbies to Improve Teen Mental Health
Want to find a new hobby to help your mental health? Ask yourself these questions to narrow down your options:
- What do you daydream about doing when you’re feeling stressed or anxious? Maybe you make playlists to listen to when you’re going for a walk, or you love to cook when you’re feeling down.
- What did you like to do as a kid? Just because you’re a teenager now doesn’t mean those things can’t still bring you joy. Maybe you loved playing with Legos or drawing! Those activities could help calm your mind now too.
- What have you always wanted to try but haven’t had the chance yet? Learning something new can be exciting and boost your confidence. Try out an instrument, painting, martial arts, or any other activity that sparks your interest.
If you’re still not sure, we have a few ideas you can try! We actually used these for experiential therapy sessions in our treatment facilities.
Try These Hobbies for Mental Health
Looking for some specific hobbies to improve teen mental health? Here are a few activities that can boost your mood and help you manage stress:
- Yoga or meditation – These activities for depressed teenagers focus on deep breathing, mindfulness, and gentle movements, which can all help relieve tension and promote relaxation.
- Journaling – Writing down your thoughts and feelings is a great way to release emotions and gain clarity. Plus, it’s always fun to look back on old entries and see how far you’ve come.
- Outdoor activities – Spending time in nature has been shown to improve mental health, so go for a hike, bike ride, or simply relax outside with a good book.
- Cooking or baking – Trying out new recipes or cooking your favorite meals can be a fun way to express creativity and focus on something other than daily stresses.
- Reading or listening to audiobooks – Escaping into a good book is one of our favorite hobbies for mental health, as it can provide a temporary break from reality and offer a sense of calm.
- Art or crafts – Engaging in creative activities can help you relax, express yourself, and build confidence. You have so many options here, so try out a painting class or download a knitting pattern to get started!
Remember, there are no one-size-fits-all hobbies for mental health. What works for someone else may not work for you, and that’s okay. The key is to find activities that bring you joy and give you a break. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works best for you.
Find Support for Mental Health at Ascend
Having hobbies that support your mental health is an important part of self-care, but if you’re still struggling, there is hope. Many teens benefit from the help of a therapist or counselor to work through their challenges and develop healthy coping skills.
At Ascend, we offer comprehensive treatment programs for teens struggling with mental health issues, and our team is here to support you every step of the way. Don’t wait—call 310.388.3713 today or reach out online to learn more about how we can help.
