Engaging in hobbies is more than a leisure activity; it is a significant contributor to mental health and overall well-being. Extensive research indicates that regular participation in enjoyable, non-work-related activities—such as music, arts and crafts, gardening, cooking, social clubs, or gaming—is associated with lower levels of depression, improved mood, and greater life satisfaction across diverse populations and cultures.

Research Findings

A study involving over 93,000 individuals aged 65 and older across 16 countries found that engaging in hobbies was linked to fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of happiness, life satisfaction, and perceived health. The data suggest a temporal relationship: increases in hobby engagement often preceded improvements in mental well-being, indicating a potential causal influence.

The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing demonstrated that individuals who regularly participated in cultural activities—such as visits to museums, attending concerts, or going to the cinema—had a 32–48% lower risk of developing depression over a decade. This relationship persisted even after adjusting for health, social factors, and demographics, pointing to a dose-response effect.

Taking the Leap: The Courage Behind Lavender Springs Behavioral Health

Starting something new is never easy. Whether it’s beginning therapy for the first time, facing a life change, or stepping into uncharted territory, the process requires insight, awareness, and above all, courage. At Lavender Springs Behavioral Health, we know this truth deeply—because our very foundation is built on it.

The Courage to Begin

The founders of Lavender Springs understood the uncertainty that comes with starting something meaningful. Just like individuals who take the first step into therapy, they faced risks, challenges, and the unknown. But they also knew that the potential for healing and growth far outweighed the fear of failure. Their leap wasn’t just about building a practice—it was about building hope for a community in need.

Healing for Community and Beyond

Today, Lavender Springs Behavioral Health serves not only our local community, but also the broader region, the state, and even clients across the country. Every session, every conversation, and every moment of healing reflects the courage it took to start this journey in the first place. The impact reaches far beyond our doors, touching families, workplaces, rural areas, and integrative medical practices.

Mental Health Statistics: More Common Than You Might Think

Mental illness is widespread—and often under-treated. In the U.S.:

- 1 in 5 adults experience a mental illness each year (about 23% or 59 million people).

- Over half of individuals with mental illness receive no treatment.

- Mental disorders are leading causes of disability globally and carry huge personal and economic costs.

Yet, many people delay therapy due to stigma, cost, or thinking it’s only for crises. The real opportunity? Therapy can support growth, resilience, and thriving, not just survival.

Therapy Beyond Crisis: Investing in Self-Development & Relationships

1. A Proactive Step Toward Growth

Therapy isn’t just “fixing problems.” Many people benefit from therapy during transitional life phases—graduation, career changes, becoming a parent, or after major loss.

Engaging in therapy proactively aligns with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—which encourages living according to values, developing psychological flexibility, and taking actions that enrich life, even when challenges persist.

2. Strengthening Relationships and Connection

Strong relationships protect mental health—but building or maintaining these relationships isn’t always easy. Therapy supports clients in improving communication, setting boundaries, and deepening connection.