Studies show that just playing an instrument (it doesn't have to be something as aggressive as the drums), can lower your blood pressure, reduce stress and in turn, help with anxiety and depression. Remember, it's important to keep a healthy mind as well as a healthy body, so let your creativity shine.
One of the biggest advantages to learning a new instrument, and one that you'll notice almost immediately, is the difference it will make to your levels of concentration. Whether you're tentatively tinkling the ivories or getting to grips with the guitar, you'll be constantly learning and exercising your mind as you improve. It doesn't matter whether it's Frère Jacques or Smoke on the Water, when you're adding new songs to your repertoire, you're improving your capacity to develop new skills and that can only be a good thing.
