Asklemmy

Learn programming?

I'm positively surprised that I've not seen gym suggestion within 10 comments.

Reading books. I enjoy it so much because it distracts me from depression, but depending on the book, it also can be enlightening in some ways and doesn‘t require me to really do much or go anywhere.

Backyard birdwatching? Collect recipes like on Pinterest that look good and if you feel like it later you'll have some good recipes to try making?

Meditation.

It's been shown to be a very effective remedy for depression. It's also a useful tool for getting in control of your mind. If you meditate regularly, you'll find more enjoyment in the things you're already doing.

Also, since it's just you and your thoughts, you may discover something you're interested in and find a hobby that way.

Photography - added benefit is that you will usually go out for this

Music - an instrument is good

Drawing/Painting

Programming (hit or miss, I found learning unity was fun)

Video making - recording video games playthroughs, cooking, and so on.

Finally, one that usually everyone probably also may mention - Therapy - not a hobby but having to be able to talk about it is often good

This is of course not an exhaustive list - but it depends on what your interests are. Hope this is a good pointer to what you're looking for.

If you're looking for something you can do while watching YouTube, origami. It lets you ease into a hobby, without completely taking away your vice.

Here's some i made yesterday while watching schadenfreude vids about the Netflix Cowboy Bebop disaster...

Drawing of course 😁! I think it would help to get your emotions out.

Right now I’m trying chess. I absolutely suck at it, but I can play it on demand at any time online and getting better at it. Don’t really play against live opponents often, but rather play bots or solve puzzles mostly. It helps get the mind to think about something else and makes me want to learn due to how bad I was initially. Still bad, just less so.

@QuietStorm
Group activities. People who are depressed should endeavor to be around people even if it is not what they want. Loneliness in a depressed person will turn to self loathing. Playing card games and board games with friends is a great activity because it forces you to be socially active and think about something other than what is depressing you.

Therapy is the best hobby.

Rollerskating. I started rollerskating last year. Not only is it fun... But it's also great cardio. I was overweight and lost 50 pounds. I don't snore anymore. I don't have high blood pressure anymore. And it's stimulating mentally every time you learn a new move. Not to mention you meet some great people with cool vibes.

Dancing. There were dark times in my life where the dance practice was the highlight of the week. You get to know people too and when you choose a style of music you like it's almost impossible to feel bad. I know of people I met there who need it as well to stay positive.

Also it's physical and mental exercise in one. Perfect.

Ride a bike. You get exercise, sunlight, cheap transportation, thrills/adventure, and good feelings, it's a win win

And if possible, find a local social bicycling group near you. Adds even more benefits when you are riding with a group

Go for a bike ride.

If you can afford it, I highly recommend getting an ebike. It can open up a larger range where you can travel if you aren't in the best of shape.

Aquariums

Honestly winemaking and brewing are great for depression. Can't find the willpower to take care of it for two weeks? That's fine! It's just aging, you can do the next step whenever you feel like it. And then you get to share and everyone is pressured to say nice things, it's great.