Doing something creative can help improve your mood.
This is because creative hobbies need your full attention. They help you distract yourself from negative thoughts. They can also increase your confidence and make you feel happier.
Try out different things until you find something that suits you.
Get started
Think about the hobbies you enjoy or the things you have always wanted to try.
Doing something you enjoy will help you feel well. Learning something new can be good for your confidence.
Doing something creative will bring you enjoyment and make you feel like you have achieved something.
Types of creative activities
Creative activities include:
- writing
- singing
- painting
- cooking
- playing an instrument
- photography
- knitting
- gardening
Find activities
There are many sources of information you can use to find out what is happening in your area, such as:
- the library
- local education and training boards
- parish newsletters
- notice boards in shops
You could:
- search for community and local news websites
- join a group, club or get involved with a community activity
- go back to education or learn something new by signing up for a course
If there is nothing happening in your area, you could start something.
Activities you can do with other people to improve your mental health
Get help from a social prescribing service
A social prescribing service can connect you with creative activities in your area.
You can contact a social prescribing service, or ask a health professional, such as your GP to refer you (contact the service for you).
Find a social prescribing service - allirelandsocialprescribing.ie