- Spread out New Year’s resolutions over the year – At the beginning of the year, people usually try to accomplish too many resolutions all at once. They are quickly overwhelmed and give up. Instead, create a list of resolutions, or goals, to implement–one per month–over the year. Spreading out goals and focusing on one at a time will feel more consistent with lifestyle change than the usual New Year’s start and stop. – Candice Tate, MD, MBA
- Plan things to look forward to – Having a daily routine is important for our mental health. It limits the chaos and helps us feel grounded. But it can get boring, especially during COVID-19 when we are closed in. Schedule things to look forward to for the upcoming weeks and months. Maybe schedule a day trip on a weekend, a few hours in the evening to watch a movie, or a phone/Zoom call with an old friend, make a reservation at your favorite restaurant or plan to place a delivery order. Choose things that make you feel good. – Linda Evans, MD, FAPA
- Limit screen time and media exposure – Social media has been a much needed lifeline for so many of us during the pandemic, but it’s essential that we remember to limit our screen time and exposure to content that can be emotionally distressing or traumatizing. Make a habit of putting your mobile device down and stepping away from your computer to enjoy the people, plants or pets in your environment. Go outside, take a walk, and get some fresh air and sunlight. – Rakel Beall-Wilkins, MD, MPH
- Learn that “no” is a complete sentence – You cannot pour from an empty cup. Saying yes to every request asked of you when you are already limited on time, energy or resources can increase stress levels. Putting your needs on the backburner is not healthy for you. Being a “yes” person sometimes equates to saying “no” to your own mental health. Recognize not only when to say no, but that you don’t have to feel guilty about it… It’s all about saying yes to you! – LaShondra Washington, MD, DFAPA
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15 tips for your mental health in 2022
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