Year-End Mental Health Check-In: Setting Goals for Wellness in the New Year
The end of the year is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and prioritize your mental health. While the hustle and bustle of the holidays can be overwhelming, taking a moment for a mental health check-in allows you to set meaningful goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re managing ongoing challenges like anxiety & depression or OCD or simply striving for better emotional balance, small steps can lead to big changes.
Reflect on the Past Year
Start by thinking about the highs and lows of the past year.
What worked well for your mental health?
What situations or habits made things harder?
For example, did you feel better during periods of consistent self-care, therapy, or medication management?
Were there times when stress or neglecting your needs left you feeling overwhelmed?
Identifying patterns in your mental health journey can help you make informed choices moving forward.
Recognize Signs That You Need Support
Year-end stress often exacerbates existing mental health challenges. If you’ve noticed persistent sadness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or changes in sleep or appetite, it might be time to seek help. According to the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences a mental illness, yet many don’t reach out for the support they need. Whether it’s symptoms of anxiety & depression or the added complexity of perinatal mental health challenges, seeking help early can make a significant difference.
Set Realistic Wellness Goals
As you plan for the new year, focus on setting realistic, actionable goals for your mental health. Instead of broad resolutions like “reduce stress” or overly ambitious ones like “go to the gym five days a week”, try small, specific actions such as taking a walk around the building on your lunch break, making a nutritious breakfast most days, or learning a new breathing technique. If you're managing a condition like OCD, anxiety or depression, goals might include learning new coping techniques or exploring treatment options.
Remember, even small, consistent efforts add up. For example, studies have shown that regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by up to 30%, and mindfulness practices can lower stress levels significantly.
Prioritize Professional Support
For many, achieving mental wellness involves working with a mental health professional. At White Pine Mental Health & Wellness, we provide comprehensive psychiatry services tailored to your needs, including therapy and medication management. Whether you’re new to mental health care or want to adjust your current treatment plan, our team is here to help.
Call to Action
If you’re ready to start the new year with a stronger focus on your mental health, don’t wait to take the first step. Kathryn Werner, PA-C, and Stacey Whitaker, PA-C, are dedicated to helping patients in Alabama, Idaho, and Florida find balance and healing. Our convenient telepsychiatry services make it easy to get the care you need from the comfort of your home.
Schedule an appointment today to begin your journey toward a healthier, happier you in the new year. Let’s work together to make your mental health a priority in 2025!
