Mental Health and Hobbies

As a high schooler, there’s a lot going on in our minds… getting things done on time, friendships, relationships, and the biggest of all: school. Stressing about such things only increases anxiety, sometimes to the point where it’s really hard to think.

Once anxiety levels get that high, it’s important to realize your mind needs a break. For me, personally, I would turn to watching movies, or TV shows. Later, I realized that it was an unhealthy habit that made me less productive, then more anxious because I was not being productive, then even less productive, which only lead to more watching and wasting time.

Earlier in the summer, I started to paint. I don’t know how I got the idea, but I just started. I also started writing music. I have ADHD (and am not taking medicine), and surprisingly doing these two things not only decreased my anxiety, but also allowed me to focus more. I’d put some music on, pick a picture to paint (I recommend Pinterest!), and I would just focus. No negative, frustrating, thoughts. Just painting.

I realized that turning to movies was not the best choice. But by painting, I was being creative and giving my mind some breathing room. Of course, it doesn’t have to be painting for everyone. It could be reading, music, drawing, or making origami that just gets you in the moment. Either way, I think it is important to find that hobby that allows you to be you, your mind to be free, and your soul to soar.

What are some things you like to do to give your mind some breathing room? Are there activities that you feel like help you focus more or lessen anxiety? Feel free to share in the comments!