As the New Year begins, many of us set resolutions to improve our lives—whether it’s hitting the gym, eating healthier, or learning a new skill. However, one area that is often overlooked is mental health. Prioritizing mental well-being can lead to a happier and more balanced life, and this resolution can also benefit those around you.

Here are some powerful ways to make mental health your top resolution and sustain it throughout 2025:

Set Boundaries

Protecting your mental health starts with setting boundaries—it can be at work, in relationships, or with technology. Practice saying no without feeling guilty, and make time for yourself to recharge.

• Staying in check: Start small with one area you want to focus on creating boundaries then expand it to other parts of your life once you are comfortable.

Practice Mindfulness

Practices such as meditation, journaling, or taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing can significantly reduce stress and improve your overall perspective on life.

• Staying in check: Start weekly or even monthly until it becomes a part of your routine. Then increase your mindfulness. It is important to always look for positive and small wins and have a moment of gratitude.

Seek Support When Needed

It’s perfectly fine to seek assistance. Whether it’s confiding in a trusted friend or pursuing professional counseling, reaching out is a significant step toward improving mental well-being.

• Staying in check: SAMHSA has some wonderful strategies on how to talk to others about how you are feeling and how best to ask for support.

Make Time for Joy

What brings you happiness? Carve out time for activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading, painting, spending time in nature, or simply laughing with loved ones. Prioritizing joy isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

• Staying in check: It’s okay to put yourself first and do things that make you happy and feel strong. This might mean taking a trip you’ve always wanted to go on this year, or treating yourself to food from your favorite restaurant once a month.

Embrace a Growth Mindset

Remember that personal growth is a journey, not a race. Celebrate small victories and be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned.

• Staying in check: It’s easy to focus solely on the negatives, but make sure to keep track of your wins, no matter how small. This practice will help you recognize your growth throughout 2025 and keep you accountable throughout the year.

Create a Routine

Maintaining mental health requires consistency. Scheduling regular therapy sessions, committing to daily walks, and setting aside time for hobbies establish a sense of stability through routine.

• Staying in check: Starting is the hardest part, but once you carve out that time, it will get easier. Maybe you begin therapy sessions once a month for the first part of the year, or weekly workouts. By March or April, you might be ready to increase those times to work on your wellness.

If you’re struggling to get through the winter months, know that there are individuals who can help. Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC), like Singing River Services, are modeled to have approaches for anyone in crisis.

CCBHCs are available 24/7 and offer personal and family mental health screening, care, and counseling services.