If you have mental illness like I do, there are many components involved when trying to manage and overcome this terrible illness. Psychiatric medications, psychotherapy, setting/achieving realistic goals, and living a healthy lifestyle are just some of the many ways to beat mental illness.
However, another way that can really help you emotionally, whether or not you have mental illness, are hobbies.
I've found that even simple hobbies can be quite therapeutic for me. For example, posting comments to online forums like AnxietyForum.net is a hobby that's simple but effective for helping me manage my illness. This easy-to-do hobby is something that often helps keep me emotionally well and happy.
A hobby by itself isn't enough to overcome serious mental health issues. But combined with treatment it really can make a difference. It has with me. And it can for you as well.