In 2019, an estimated 970 million individuals worldwide were affected by mental health conditions, with anxiety and depression being the most widespread. Around 5% of the adult population experiences depression, with a higher prevalence among women than men, according to the World Health Organization.
Unfortunately, these figures show no signs of decreasing in the near future. Events such as the pandemic, international conflicts, and economic inflation can lead to stress and anxiety among people.
While the World Health Organization and various mental health groups continue to highlight the importance of mental well-being and aim to eradicate stigma, significant progress is still needed. However, this does not mean that people should give up hope. There are many ways in which one can help oneself and others who are suffering from mental health issues.
According to Harvard Health, having a hobby can positively impact your mood, health, and well-being. Individuals who pursue hobbies report feeling healthier and happier, show fewer symptoms of sadness or depression, and express greater life satisfaction than those without hobbies.
WebMD echoes this sentiment, noting that hobbies can help alleviate stress, enhance interpersonal relationships, and bolster mental health.
If you have yet to discover a hobby, now may be the perfect moment to explore one.
According to Statista, here are some of the most popular hobbies in the United States:
Popular Hobbies and Activities in America
Cooking/Baking
For some people, cooking is a necessity and a chore. Yet, for others, it is a rewarding hobby deserving of their leisure time. Approximately 42 percent of American consumers view cooking in this positive light.
Cooking is an outstanding hobby, offering an avenue for creativity and personal expression. You can experiment with new recipes, explore various ingredients, and even create your meals entirely from scratch. Moreover, cooking is a lifelong skill that continually proves its worth. So, cooking is definitely worth considering if you are looking for a new hobby.
Reading
Statista’s research reveals that 37% of those surveyed are passionate about reading books. Reading can serve as both a therapeutic and meditative practice.
Reading helps you learn and can help you look at things from a different perspective. It facilitates learning and provides fresh perspectives, offering a respite from personal troubles by transporting the mind to other realms. Some avid readers even maintain personal libraries in their homes.
Moreover, reading is an excellent way to decompress and relax following a hectic workday. You can do it anywhere, anytime, and it doesn’t require any special equipment—except perhaps for personal touches like book embossers for those who cherish their collection.
Successful people such as Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, And Warren Buffet admit to being avid readers.
Pets
If your interest lies not in hobbies but in companionship, acquiring a pet can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness. Pets like dogs, cats, and birds offer a sense of purpose and responsibility, which is crucial for individuals coping with depression or anxiety. In fact, per the Statista survey, 37% of participants report having pets.
The CDC acknowledges that pets can significantly encourage outdoor activity and social interactions. They necessitate exercise, which provides a good motivation for staying active. Furthermore, having a pet accompany you can make engaging in solo activities feel more comfortable and less isolating.
Video Gaming
Equally matched with the 35% of U.S. consumers who have pets, another 35% engage in playing video games. Over 83% of internet users engaged in gaming.
This trend is hardly shocking as electronic gadgets are becoming integral to people’s lives. Individuals use them for work, school, and entertainment.
Outdoor Activities
According to UC Davis Health, going outside helps improve mental abilities, physical wellness, and mental health. Residents who dwell near natural areas like parks and greenspaces tend to experience less mental distress, enjoy longer life expectancies, and lead more physically active lives.
Some popular outdoor activities are hiking, camping, fishing, and biking. These activities are not only enjoyable but also contribute to maintaining physical health and fitness.
If none of these interest you, other hobbies on the list are traveling, socializing, and DIY Arts & Crafts like scrapbooking, knitting, and rubber stamping.
Life may present its share of stress and challenges, yet there are many positive experiences to cherish. Concentrating on the positives and occupying your mind with enjoyable pastimes is essential.
If there’s a hobby you’ve been delaying, consider this a perfect moment to embrace it. Alternatively, exploring new activities you’ve yet to try can be stimulating to step outside your comfort zone and discover new experiences.
Published by: Khy Talara
