Turn the passive watching into something a bit active if you can. I like watching TV, and I sometimes try to analyze the data from them. Similarly, if you like watching youtube videos, maybe examine what it is that excites you about them, if any, analyze and introspect.

For me, it was running and reducing alcohol to very moderate levels. I'm at the point now that I crave a run to clear my mind and lower my stress. I rarely ever feel depressed anymore. Total game changer for me.

A cat? It forces you to do something useful everyday, which will make you feel good. Maybe a dog is even better, since you'd have to walk it, but a dog is a harsher commitment than a cat. You can't skip a walk with a dog, just because you re having a bad day. A cat however, will be fine for a day of neglect as long as you keep it's bowl full. A cat also enjoys playing outside though, so you could try that as well.

I had a kid, which didn't cure my depression, but it took away all my time. I didn't have time to think about depression anymore, so I kinda forgot about it. Though I wouldn't recommend having a kid for anything besides just wanting to have a kid.

What sucks about exercise tips is that I live in Florida where there is nowhere to hike.

Stroads everywhere so I can’t bike.

Gyms? Not unless I pay $150 a month.

Walking? Oh right, stroads.

It’s fucking built to be depressing here. I hate Florida.

As someone with diagnosed depression what I'd really recommend is a hobby that can survive a little bit of neglect because when you have depression you will have periods where you just don't have the energy to do anything and there is nothing wrong with that.

To that end, I'd recommend growing flowers or taking care of plants in general. Flowers are especially good in my experience because they can bloom in the middle of particularly bad times and that helps so much.

There is something special about coming home and finding a beautiful flower that has bloomed for you. There is something about making a beautiful thing and growing a flower is much easier than learning to paint.