Navigating Depression: How to Keep Engaged in Hobbies

Living with depression can feel overwhelming, but maintaining hobbies can provide a sense of normalcy and joy amidst the struggle. Here's how to stay engaged and find the right hobbies to complement your journey to recovery.

The Power of Perseverance

My best advice is to just keep at it. The more you persist, the more you shape your future into what you are striving to accomplish. Also, the more you do it, the more you come to believe it will happen. Drawing from personal experience, I found that during my teenage years, when I was in a youth medical center and struggling with depression, a friend taking me to play basketball made a significant difference. Basketball helped me and can help others in similar situations.

Finding a Hobby You Love

Find a hobby you feel passionate about. It's a pity that many schools don't teach skills like woodworking and home economics, which are essential for self-comfort and creativity. If you're looking for a hobby to help with depression, simply picking a random activity might not work if you lack interest. There are a million hobbies out there; find one you love.

Examples of Hobbies

I've tried various hobbies, including pottery, knitting, crocheting, cooking, weaving, basket weaving, sewing, quilting, painting, sculpture, home decorating, graphic design, gardening, playing the violin, cello, guitar, flute, drums, and even the banjo. While some activities didn't stick, knitting and playing the guitar have remained a part of my routine and offer moments of joy and relaxation.

The Joy of Immersion

When you find a hobby that resonates with you, you'll experience joy. You'll be in the middle of working on something, feeling happy and lost in the activity. For a few minutes or even hours, you'll be immersed in joy. Don't give up; hobbies are fun and can take you out of yourself.

Seeking Professional Help

It's important to recognize when to seek professional help. If you no longer find yourself doing the things that help keep you happy and grounded, it might be a signal to seek professional mental health assistance. Mental health professionals can offer the support you need to navigate your depression and find the right coping mechanisms for you.

Conclusion

Depression can make it difficult to stick to hobbies, but staying engaged can enhance your mental health. Find a hobby that you love, immerse yourself in it, and don't give up. Remember, perseverance and self-care are key steps in managing depression.