Improving Mental Health in 2022

The past two years have been full of challenges. Looking forward to a brighter 2022 with continuing COVID-19-related worries can make traditional New Year’s resolutions stressful to stick to. Additionally, resolutions can add pressure onto committing to new changes, habits and challenges we may not be ready for. We all want to make impactful changes in our lives, but how can we make them last and also bring positivity to our mental health?

Set Realistic Resolutions 

When setting resolutions, it’s important to take time to reflect on the change you wish to see and what you realistically can do to achieve that change. By taking smaller, more achievable steps towards your goals, there is a greater chance that you will keep them. On the other hand, try to avoid making vague plans like “lose weight” or “read more”. Instead, set goals like “Exercise 20 minutes every day”, “lose 15 pounds” or “read 1 book per month”. Such goals with a numerical target that you can work towards can make a resolution more realistic to achieve. 

Make time for Self-Care and New Hobbies

If you find yourself living a life without purpose and spending too much time indulging on your phone in the evenings, or maybe too little time being social, consider choosing self-care this year. Picking up a hobby is an important part of self-development, and also enables us to participate in social environments that help to boost our mental wellbeing. Whether you learn a new language or  paint, hobbies are a great way to gain a new skill or become more creative. This year, try to make new year’s resolutions that last all year long but most importantly are enjoyable and help you to grow.

Accept Failure and Forgive Yourself

Despite all the efforts that we put into achieving our goals, it is possible that we might fail or slip up. Accept this failure, own it, and forgive yourself. Being harsh on yourself will only do you more harm so instead learn from what went wrong and instead of bailing on the resolution at the end of next year, see it through until you reach your goal. With this in mind, choose flexible and achievable changes that can boost your confidence as well as improve your motivation. If you don’t feel like there is anything you can think of or you’re not ready to start planning it into your life, don’t force it and take inspiration from those around you that you aspire to be like.

Get Mental Health help when you need it

The ongoing pandemic pressure and the potential for seasonal affective disorder are adding to our mental state. It’s no wonder the start of the New Year can be tough. Talking to a counsellor or therapist for support can help. The empathy, care, and support you’ll get from a professional can help you reduce stress in the New Year. Here at PsyMood, we hope everyone can have a prosperous new year and we dedicate ourselves to providing professional mental health services that reveal your strength to achieve your own goals.

PsyMood prides itself on providing online and affordable diverse mental health support for newcomers to Canada by matching our users to mental health specialists that understand their culture and speak their native language. You can start your FREE no-obligation introductory session today.