Exploring the Impact of Hobbies on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Engaging in hobbies can contribute to personal growth, reduce stress, and foster social connections through community involvement and active participation. If hobbies are to be promoted as a mental health and well-being measure, it is important to provide strong evidence by synthesising the existing research. This scoping review identifies and maps primary research reporting the impact of hobbies on mental health and well-being. In August 2024, a detailed search was performed using PubMed, CINAHL and Scopus electronic databases. Following the screening, 12 articles from 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Three themes emerged from the data: (1) Depression, anxiety and stress; (2) Quality of life and well-being; and (3) Social interaction and support. Hobbies help connect people, build relationships, and promote a sense of community. Several studies noted lower levels of depression, anxiety or stress as one of the benefits of participating in hobbies. Additionally, hobbies facilitate relaxation and pleasure, playing a crucial role in mitigating anxiety, stress and depression and promoting overall life satisfaction. This review highlights the benefits of hobbies for mental health and well-being. Mental health professionals are well-positioned through their therapeutic relationships with service users to advocate for and promote their engagement in accessible hobbies that support mental health and well-being. Whilst this review identified the therapeutic benefits of hobbies, we suggest that further research is warranted among population groups.