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Photography has also been my mental support for a very long time.

In hindsight, I suppose its fair to say I was using Enid Blytons characters to combat loneliness.

A retro camera beside a pile of books on a table

Reading, for me, is a habit, not a hobby.

Ihaveto read every single day, even if its just for a few minutes.

I havent read a printed book in a while, having bought my first ereader theKobo Glo in 2014.

The Kobo Elipsa 2E with stylus on a table beside some books

It broke a year later after falling off a shelf, and I then got my firstKindle.

Reading the right book can also help you cope with stress, anxiety and depression.

I recently had a session like this.

A woman lying on a couch and reading

A bibliotherapist can recommend titles that could resonate with your experiences.

Book recommendations can be fiction or nonfiction, and it can help kids as well.

And it doesnt matter if you prefer reading a printed book or use an ereader.

Cameras, lenses and a portable SSD on a table

Channeling creativity

While reading is a habit for me, photography is my hobby.

As Ive already said, Im happiest with a camera in my hand.

It was at this time that I began to realize I like taking pictures.

Two friends sitting on a wooden jetty on the edge of a lake

It didnt matter that the photos werent professional grade, I seemed to enjoy the experience.

It was around time that began to feel like things were falling apart.

It was the most terrifying time Ive been through, filled with uncertainties.

A woman in a white frill dress lying on a chaise lounge

My hormones went haywire and, consequently, I needed to undergo surgery.

It was taking photos that kept me distracted from it all.

I havent stopped taking pictures.

I think photography has made me a better person, teaching me patience and empathy.

And that makes me one of the lucky few.

Its also a great and safe space for photographers and content creators to tell their stories.

There are plenty ofmental health appsthat you’re free to use to get started.

it’s possible for you to take up knitting or crocheting maybe, or start a scrapbook.