How to Prioritize Mental Health in 2026

Illustration by OlgaStrelnikova / adobestock.com

It’s the time of year to set fresh goals and start resolutions, from incorporating more exercise to starting new hobbies. Mental health is one of the most common priorities that many aim to focus on each year. Heather Melena, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at the Lindner Center of Hope, shares five tips to help support and prioritize your mental health in 2026.

Set realistic goals

Step one is to set goals that are achievable. “A lot of times we think of the new year and try to set really big goals and they’re not always as realistic as we think,” says Melena. “Then we feel defeated and we stop. Make [goals] more manageable, not drastic change.” Little changes in your life, even if it’s a minute or two of your day, are going to have a huge impact over time. Walking for five minutes a day or dedicating 30 minutes a week to something just for you are ways to incorporate lower time commitment goals.

Prioritize sleep

Listen to your body and its need for sleep. Create a routine before bed to ensure you’re getting to bed at a reasonable hour. That includes keeping screen time to a minimum. Ideally, stop using screens an hour before bed.

Exercise and eat nourishing food

Research shows that exercise and diet have a significant impact on mental health. Eat nourishing foods and try to not skip meals. Keep yourself accountable to eating meals by scheduling lunch with a colleague or blocking time on your calendar.

Be kind to yourself

Making small adjustments to how we view ourselves can make a difference. “We need to be kinder to ourselves,” says Melena. “[Ask yourself] ‘Would I talk to anybody else that way?’ We need to treat ourselves like we’d treat other people.” Notice your small accomplishments like getting out of the door on time, enjoying lunch with a coworker, or having a great dinner with a partner. They’re daily activities that you can use as reminders that you accomplished something.

Seek professional help at the Lindner Center of Hope

If you need support in your mental health journey, contact Lindner Center of Hope and visit the Lindner Center of Hope website to learn more about treatment.