New Year, New You: 7 Mental Health Resolutions to Start the Year Off Right
It’s a new year and with it comes a fresh start. We all have big dreams for the upcoming year we want to achieve and setting new mental health resolutions can be one of them. Whether you are looking to create healthier habits or find better ways to manage stress, there are plenty of simple yet effective strategies which can help you get off on the right foot this year.
1. Take Time Off Social Media
Nowadays, social media is practically unavoidable, but staying connected 24/7 isn’t always healthy. It is estimated the average person uses social media for 2 hours and 27 minutes daily. As shocking as that is, it’s easy to get addicted and waste valuable time in the process. Make 2023 the year you take a break from your newsfeeds and focus on being present in your own life instead. Set time limits for yourself or even go on a “social media cleanse” if you think it will help to reset your mental state. You may even find once you take a step back from your phone and computer screens, you feel more creative and focused than ever before!
2. Start Journaling
Journaling is an excellent way to document our thoughts and emotions as they arise. Writing down your goals, challenges, successes and failures helps to understand yourself better while also providing an avenue to express your feelings in meaningful ways. Start the year off by setting aside some time each day (or week) dedicated solely to writing down how you feel — no matter how silly or insignificant it might seem, Over time, journaling can become an invaluable tool in tracking your moods and helping you recognize potential triggers so you can intervene more quickly when necessary.
3. Unplug Every Once In Awhile
When you are constantly plugged into your devices, it can be hard to remember what life was like before smartphones were invented. Take some time away from technology every now and then — put down your phone during meals, turn off notifications after work hours or just disconnect completely for a weekend getaway. Unplugging can help you reconnect with yourself and look inward rather than outward for comfort or entertainment. Plus, spending quality time away from screens can do wonders for our eyesight too.
4. Sleep More
It’s easy to forget about the importance of getting a good night’s sleep, but it can be one of the most powerful tools in keeping your mental health in check. A study has discovered brain activity during sleep can have significant impacts on mental and emotional well-being. This year, commit to prioritizing your sleep by setting aside an adequate amount of time for rest each night. Not only will you wake up feeling more refreshed and energized, but you will also be less likely to suffer from stress or anxiety.
5. Exercise More Often
Aerobic exercises, such as jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, gardening and dancing have all been linked with reducing anxiety and depression according to a study. This year, why not try to find an exercise routine that works for you and stick to it? Even if it’s just a few minutes of yoga or walking each day, the physical benefits can be substantial. Plus, working out releases endorphins which can improve your mood and help reduce stress levels.
6. Connect With Your Support Network
Having a strong support network is essential when it comes to your mental well-being. Make sure you are staying connected with the people who matter most, whether through texts, calls or in-person visits. It can help to have someone to turn to when things get tough — and vice versa.
7. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and recognizing our thoughts without judgment. It’s a great way to manage stress, reduce anxiety and cultivate positive emotions. Start small by setting aside five minutes each morning to focus on your breathing or simply observe your surroundings. Over time, mindful meditation can help you become more aware of yourself and your environment so you can better manage your feelings and reactions.
8. Try Something New
Mental health can become stagnant when you get into a routine of the same activities, so why not challenge yourself to try something new this year? Take up a hobby or explore an unfamiliar neighborhood — anything that will push you out of your comfort zone. Doing something different can help keep our minds sharp and expand our perspective.
9. Set Goals and Stick To Them
Goals are the cornerstone of any successful resolution — and mental health resolutions are no exception. Make sure your goals are realistic, achievable and measurable so you can celebrate the small successes along the way. But most importantly, don’t forget to be kind to yourself — life can get in the way of even the best-laid plans.
By committing to these nine mental health resolutions, you’ll be better equipped to take care of your mind and spirit this year. Do your best to make the most of each day and remember your well-being should always come first. Regardless of what action steps you choose to take this year, self-care is always worth investing in – here’s hoping 2023 is filled with positive vibes and personal growth!
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