I just took my physics test and I just know I failed. And right after class ended, I went straight to pinterest to find my next nail design. I file to determine the nail’s form. I blend hues to create the ideal blue. And as I paint my nails, new feelings of fulfillment and enjoyment flow, easing the disappointment from failure. 

Life is already so stressful for many of us, especially when school decides to bombard us with more stress from school work. Instead of wasting precious leisure time lounging on the couch, scrolling through tiktok, we should instead take up activities that will help us manage stress. 

Research in the article “University of Reading” shows that, “having a hobby is associated with lower levels of depression and may even prevent depression for some.” Losing interest and joy in things you normally like doing is one symptom of poor mental health. Though some doctors prescribe antidepressants, they are less effective in comparison to the treatment of social prescribing which is (basically) taking up a hobby. 

When our lives get hectic and we engage in a hobby, the activity transforms the stressful turmoil of life into a soothing reprieve. Chemical messengers in the brain, such as dopamine, which helps us feel pleasure, are released when we participate in an activity that we enjoy. These substances can then increase our motivation and make us wish to engage in the hobby once again. We are reenergized with greater energy and happiness when we take time for ourselves to indulge in a passion, ready to charge back at life. 

It’s important to choose hobbies that you genuinely enjoy and that align with your interests. What brings one person joy may not do the same for another, so it’s important to find activities that resonate with you personally. Consistently participating in hobbies and incorporating them into your daily or weekly routine can contribute to a more positive and stable mental state.

It’s not always easy finding free time from day to day trying to fit in responsibilities, school work, and other activities in one day. However, the school has endless clubs for students to enjoy, even for a short period of time. Take a break and try to experience a new hobby and if you don’t have the time, there is a 45 minute lunch break that holds club meetings.