12 Fun Hobbies That Help Reduce Stress, According to Experts

Boost your mental health and have a good time in the process.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Stress is a daily occurrence for many people, but taking the time to enjoy a hobby can actually lower stress levels. Hobbies give the nervous system a break, offer a sense of focus and enjoyment separate from daily responsibilities, and provide a bright spot in a hectic day. Experts have identified over 600 ways that leisure activities can improve health, including managing anxiety and stress.

Why it matters

In an increasingly fast-paced and demanding world, finding healthy ways to manage stress is crucial for both mental and physical wellbeing. Hobbies provide an opportunity to step away from the daily grind, engage in enjoyable activities, and reap the benefits of reduced anxiety and improved mood.

The details

Danielle Roeske, PsyD, the vice president of residential services at Newport Healthcare, explains that hobbies "gently pull us out of" the loop of problem-solving and worry that our brains can get stuck in. Hobbies offer a sense of focus, enjoyment, and accomplishment that is separate from our daily responsibilities. Lorenzo Norris, MD, an associate professor of psychiatry at George Washington University, adds that hobbies "allow you to engage and relax", giving you something to look forward to and a sense of control when things feel chaotic.

  • A 2022 research review published in The Lancet Psychiatry identified over 600 ways that leisure activities can improve health.

The players

Danielle Roeske

The vice president of residential services at Newport Healthcare.

Lorenzo Norris

An associate professor of psychiatry at George Washington University.

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What they’re saying

“Hobbies give our nervous system a break. When life feels stressful, our brains often get stuck in problem-solving or worry mode, and hobbies gently pull us out of that loop with a distraction. They offer a sense of focus, enjoyment, and even accomplishment that's separate from our daily responsibilities.”

— Danielle Roeske, Vice President of Residential Services, Newport Healthcare (Good Housekeeping)

“It's going to allow you to engage and relax.”

— Lorenzo Norris, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, George Washington University (Good Housekeeping)

The takeaway

In an increasingly stressful world, finding healthy hobbies that provide a mental break and sense of enjoyment can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety and improving overall wellbeing. By engaging in activities that pull us out of problem-solving mode and offer a sense of focus and accomplishment, we can reap the benefits of reduced stress and improved mood.