Why Getting Out and Doing What You Love is the Best Medicine for Your Mental Health

We all know the feeling: life gets busy, work gets stressful, and suddenly, our favourite hobbies and outings are shoved to the back burner. Before you know it, you’re spending your free time binge-watching Netflix in your pyjamas (no judgment here), wondering why you feel a bit... meh.

But here’s the thing: going out and doing things you love isn’t just a luxury — it’s actually a fantastic way to boost your mental health. And no, you don’t need to take up rock climbing or join a yoga retreat in the Himalayas. It’s about doing the things that make you happy, whether that’s catching up with friends, trying a new restaurant, or even hitting up your local museum.

Here’s why getting out and about is so good for your mental well-being — and a few stats to back it up (because we love a good stat, don’t we?).

1. It Reduces Stress and Boosts Mood

It’s no secret that doing something you enjoy makes you feel good. Whether it’s a stroll in the park, hitting the gym, or indulging in a hobby like painting or knitting, getting out and doing what you love releases those lovely feel-good chemicals in your brain.

According to a 2019 study by the Mental Health Foundation, 74% of UK adults said they felt so stressed at some point in the last year that they were overwhelmed or unable to cope​(Mental Health Wales).

Now, that’s a pretty hefty percentage. But here’s the good news: doing things you enjoy can act as a natural stress reliever. When you engage in activities that make you happy, your brain releases dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters that play a huge role in regulating mood and reducing stress. In other words, more fun = less stress. It’s science.

2. It Fights Loneliness

We all get that urge to retreat into our comfy bubble and avoid the outside world from time to time, but too much isolation can have a negative impact on our mental health. Research from the Campaign to End Loneliness found that 45% of adults in England feel occasionally, sometimes, or often lonely. That’s almost half the population!

Getting out of the house and doing things you love—especially with other people—helps fight off loneliness and build stronger social connections. Whether it’s meeting friends for a coffee or joining a club that shares your interests, having regular social interactions is key to good mental health. And let’s face it, even if your social skills are a bit rusty after the last few years, that first awkward conversation is worth it for the mental boost.

3. It Gets You Moving (Even if You Don’t Realise It)

Look, I’m not suggesting that going out to the pub counts as a cardio session (if only!), but let’s not underestimate the physical benefits of doing what you love. Whether you’re wandering through a farmer’s market, dancing at a gig, or even just strolling around your favourite shops, getting out and about often means you’re moving your body without even thinking about it.

And guess what? According to the NHS, regular physical activity can reduce your risk of depression by up to 30%​(Happiful Magazine).

Exercise doesn’t have to mean a gruelling session at the gym—it can be as simple as a walk through your local park or a day spent exploring somewhere new. Movement, in any form, helps release endorphins, which naturally improve your mood. Plus, fresh air does wonders for clearing the mind.

4. It Gives You a Sense of Purpose

Let’s be honest, sometimes life can feel a bit monotonous. We get stuck in routines, wake up, work, sleep, repeat. But doing things you love, whether it’s something creative or a simple hobby, can give you a much-needed sense of purpose. It’s something to look forward to, a reason to get up in the morning (besides work or your alarm blaring at you).

A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that engaging in meaningful activities—like hobbies and leisure activities—significantly improves overall life satisfaction and reduces symptoms of depression​(The Care Forum).

So, next time you’re debating whether to sign up for that pottery class or spend the day photographing nature, remember: it’s not just fun—it’s practically therapy!

5. It’s Good for Your Brain

Not only does doing what you love make you feel better emotionally, but it’s also a great way to keep your brain sharp. Engaging in new and stimulating activities (hello, trying a new skill or exploring somewhere different) can help improve cognitive function and even ward off age-related decline. So, if you needed an excuse to take up a new hobby or explore a different city, here it is—your brain will thank you for it.

6. It Helps You Disconnect from the Hustle

In a world that never stops, it can be hard to take a break. Work emails, social media, and the constant barrage of notifications can make it feel like we’re always "on." Getting out and doing something you genuinely enjoy — something that requires you to be present — helps you disconnect from the constant hustle.

Whether you’re out hiking, at a live show, or just grabbing dinner with friends, immersing yourself in an activity helps break that cycle of work and stress. And let’s be real: it’s way easier to forget about your emails when you’re halfway through a comedy gig, laughing your head off.

Final Thoughts: Get Out and Feel Better

Whether it’s meeting up with friends, trying out a new hobby, or just taking a scenic walk, getting out and doing what you love is more than just a way to pass the time—it’s vital for your mental health. From reducing stress and boosting your mood to strengthening social connections and giving your brain a workout, there are countless benefits to stepping outside your front door.

So next time you’re feeling a bit low or stuck in a rut, remember: you don’t have to do anything drastic. Just get out there, do something you enjoy, and watch how quickly it lifts your spirits.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to a pottery class… or maybe a pub quiz. Either way, I’m choosing fun and a mental health boost all in one go!

Further Sources:

• Mental Health Foundation's Survey on Stress

• Physical Activity for Mental Health - Mind