Getting a hobby - a positive outlet!

[cathytink3rb3ll]

Recently I have visited an old hobby of mine - as sort of a positive outlet to take my mind off things.
I started playing drums around 5 years ago but then when I started getting the axiety/depression/panic attacks around 3 years ago I didnt really do it as much.
I decided to bite the bullet and dig out my electronic drum kit from the attic (you know the ones with the headphones) and sinse then when I am at home and feeling rubbish I decide to do an hour or so of drumming. Most of the time I dont feel like it but after I feel much better and get a sense of achievement from getting the fills right and learning new songs; and its also good exersise!

I would invite anyone to revisit an old hobby or strike up a new one - even if it takes your mind off things for half an hour thats better than nothing!

xxx

[bottleblond]

Cathy

You have a very good point there and i am really glad your hobby is helping you.

I used to love drawing but haven't done it in so long. I think you may have just inspired me to pick up my pencils again!


Lovely post thanks

Lisa
xxx

[cathytink3rb3ll]

My motto - Dont think about it, just do it!

Pick up that Pencil

xxx

[sMINT]

I totally agree.

I write songs and find the only time when my mind is 100 % not thinking about any form of panic or anxiety is when writing becuase my mind is completely pre occupied with that.

Im yet to try it on train journeys yet. I really should as it would most prob take my mind right off the panic.

[bottleblond]

My motto - Dont think about it, just do it!

Pick up that Pencil

xxx

Ok i will!!

xxx

[kate]

I find card making very theraputic. Once I get started I find that hours will pass by as I get so absorbed in it

Kate

[cathytink3rb3ll]

sMINT - do you need a drummer haha? x

[Flying Badger]

Pursuing a hobby - an excellent idea in my experience!

Depression & Anxiety cost me my job almost 6 years ago now. One of the worst things about it was the sheer boredom, which does nothing to help your problems.

I had always had a passing interest in railways, so decided to pursue this as a 'proper' hobby. At first, this began by simply joining / reading railway related forums, and asking Mum to buy me a magazine or two. For a while, I had problems with agoraphobia, and rarely left the house. Eventually, as my interest in the railways grew, I finally decided to be brave, and go on a train ride. I wasn't going anywhere - I just rode a local train for the sake of it. Once I had done this, leaving the house became just a little easier - going for a train ride had 'broken the ice'.

My interest in the railways has led to another hobby - photography. I saved up, and purchased a basic digital camera to take with me on my train rides. Over the last few years, this has really developed, and I am now an avid railway photographer. I've even had a few of my pictures published, and they have featured on the front cover of many Train Simulator (PC game) products. I also maintine a Fotopic site.

I've also started a little music website, with some recordings of me playing my beloved keyboard. As well as being something to ocupy my time, it's nice to do something productive that I can share with others.

So, there we go - a hobby really can be a great help.

Cheers

Gary

P.S - I'm not trying to 'promote' or 'plug' my website here, but if anyone wants a look or listen, please let me know, and I'll post a link.

[vintageangelme08]

I find card making very theraputic. Once I get started I find that hours will pass by as I get so absorbed in it

Kate

I also use card making and scrapbooking. Luckily for me i work in a craft shop. bit difficult to do when i'm out and about tho lol. Unfortunately i'm having to take a break from where i work because i'm going through a bit of an agoraphobic phase.

[PanicOver!!]

Hobbies are a great distraction

I play guitar and it really helps