Are you rich? Have a great job? That won't make you happy. But taking the time to engage in artistic pursuits will, according to a new study.

The University of Science and Technology in Norway surveyed 50,000 people and found that men who participated in cultural activities were less likely to suffer from depression.

Researchers found that there is a positive relationship between cultural participation and happiness for both sexes. But they also found a positive relationship between cultural pursuits and depression in men.

Listening to music, exercising, going to the theater, and painting can all be good ways to ward off mental illness, say experts.

The study researchers speculate that participating in cultural activities means that people are involved in a community, which tends to make people feel better.

So if you're feeling depressed, move away from the computer and pick up that paint brush.

photo credit: moriza