Photograph by Syda Productions / stock.adobe.com
This time of year is when goal setting and resolutions are in full swing. From incorporating more exercise to engaging in new hobbies, it’s healthy to set goals at the beginning of the year. Mental health is one of the most common priorities that many aim to focus on each year. Jessica Kraft, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at the Lindner Center of Hope shared six tips to focus on that will help you improve your mental health in 2025.
Set Realistic Goals
Late January is when abandoning those dramatic January 1 goals starts to happen. Kraft says it’s important to set realistic goals. “If you [set the goal] to go to the gym every day, that’s really hard if you don’t already go to the gym,” says Kraft. “When you make lofty goals, it’s easy to get burnt out.” Establish incremental goals that you can build on. Start with the goal to exercise one day a week and progress to two days after the goal becomes attainable and a part of your routine.
Practice Gratitude Every Day
If you didn’t make it to the gym, but you were still able to walk for 10 minutes, Kraft emphasizes to be thankful that you could do that. Small acts like getting out the door on time, enjoying lunch with a coworker, or having a great dinner with a partner are all daily activities that Kraft says are important. Stop and remind yourself to be grateful for the small things.
Limit Screen Time
An hour can go by scrolling on social media. Kraft says it’s important to think about how we are spending our time. Do I feel like the time I’m spending is valuable? If you have the goal to meal plan or start a new hobby, can you cut out screen time?
Prioritize Sleep
Listen to your body and its need for sleep. Kraft says it’s not uncommon for people to feel like they need more sleep this time of year. If you can, don’t keep your phone in your bedroom.
Exercise and Eat Well
Research shows that exercise and diet have a significant impact on mental health. Kraft says doing something is better than nothing. It’s not uncommon for people to skip lunch when they’re working. To help keep you accountable to eating lunch, schedule lunch with a colleague.
Put Self-Care on Your Calendar
Schedule self-care on your calendar as if it were an appointment. Kraft says sometimes it’s easier to honor your schedule.
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.
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