Hobbies aren’t just “fun ways to pass the time.” Growing scientific evidence shows that engaging in hobbies — from painting and gardening to volunteering and community groups — can improve mental health, reduce stress, and strengthen social connections. A new scoping review of the research confirms this is true across multiple studies, highlighting clear patterns in how leisure activities support well-being.
Hobbies and Mood: Lower Stress, Anxiety & Depression
One of the most consistent findings from the research review is that people who participate in hobbies tend to report fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Across 11 studies included in the analysis, hobby engagement was linked with:
- Reduced feelings of depression
- Lower stress and anxiety
- Greater feelings of calm and relaxation
This suggests that doing activities you enjoy isn’t just pleasurable — it can also act as a kind of emotional buffer when life gets overwhelming.
Hobbies Help Improve Quality of Life & Well-Being
The research also found that hobbies are tied to higher overall life satisfaction and a stronger sense of well-being. People who take part in meaningful leisure activities reported greater happiness, a stronger sense of purpose, and more enjoyment in day-to-day life.
These benefits show up whether someone is doing the hobby alone or with others — the key factor is that the activity is personally meaningful and engaging.
Social Connection — A Big Part of the Well-Being Boost
Another key benefit highlighted in the review is the social dimension of hobbies. When hobbies involve other people — through clubs, workshops, classes, teams or volunteering — they help build community and connections. These social ties can:
- Reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation
- Strengthen support networks
- Provide a sense of belonging and teamwork
Feeling connected to others plays a major role in both mental and emotional health, and hobbies are a natural way to nurture those connections.
Three Big Themes From the Research Review
The scoping review organized the existing evidence into three main themes that show how hobbies benefit mental health:
1) Mood and Emotional Health
Hobby engagement was linked with lower levels of depression, anxiety and stress.
2) Quality of Life & Well-Being
People who regularly do hobbies reported higher life satisfaction, more positive emotions, and greater overall well-being.
3) Social Interaction & Support
Hobbies helped foster community, friendships, and supportive relationships that benefit mental health.
Why Hobbies Work
While more research is still needed to fully understand the underlying causes, the studies included in the review point to several reasons why hobbies improve well-being:
- Relaxation and stress reduction: Taking part in enjoyable activities can lower emotional tension.
- Pleasure and enjoyment: Doing things you love boosts positive emotions.
- Personal growth or mastery: Learning new skills builds confidence and purpose.
- Social bonds: Interaction with others combats loneliness and reinforces support networks.
What This Means for You
If you’re looking for ways to support your mental health or strengthen your overall sense of well-being, the research suggests that regular hobby engagement can be a powerful tool — especially when it involves social interaction or meaningful engagement.
You don’t need a “perfect” pastime or a huge time commitment; even regular participation in simple hobbies can make a difference.
Takeaway
Hobbies do more than fill time — they help support emotional balance, enrich life satisfaction, and deepen social connection.** The evidence shows that actively taking part in leisure activities can contribute in meaningful ways to mental health and overall well-being.