Whether the winter brought connection and celebration or the perfect storm for anxiety, depression and other mental health struggles, individuals forging resolutions in the afterglow of the holiday season can make mental health a priority in the new year.
Michelle Bettin, senior director of counseling and mental health care at Texas A&M University Health Services, said this time of year can be particularly difficult. Seasonal reductions in natural sunlight, along with changes in diet, exercise and routine, can contribute to challenging environmental factors. And while the holidays tend to bring people together, some individuals may struggle with dysfunctional family dynamics or a lack of family connection altogether. Others may experience stress or sadness at saying goodbye to loved ones as the holidays conclude.
It’s easy to slip into a deficit mindset, comparing celebrations to social media posts, Bettin said. “It also can highlight how our family or our relationships are not like the families and holidays we see on the TV and in movies,” she said.
Bettin recommended extending grace to oneself and others. She advised against adhering to arbitrary standards or unrealistic expectations, and she cautioned against comparing oneself to others’ experiences, which can open the door to self-doubt and disappointment, she said.
Instead of measuring success by comparison metrics, Bettin recommended approaching resolutions by setting small, attainable goals for the new year. Prioritizing mental health through “SMART goals,” provides a framework to for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound aspirations.
The SMART goal method swaps lofty goals, like “cure my anxiety” or “be happy every day,” for more realistic steps tailored to fit specific lifestyles. Bettin said reasonable goals might include “get to therapy once a month” or “set aside 15 minutes for a walk or meditation.”
Along with honoring individual priorities, resolutions should create opportunities or guard time for self-care. Even without pre-existing mental health conditions, self-care plays a crucial role in managing the stresses of daily life and can look different for everyone.