This is number 5 of a 10-part series on how Atracare helps patients achieve lasting health through preventative care, holistic wellness, and accessible healthcare. Covering everything from pediatrics to primary care, mental health, and urgent care, Atracare supports Sussex County at every stage of life.

Presented in collaboration with Delaware Beaches Online and Atracare.

How to Set Your 2025 Mental Health New Year’s Resolutions

As 2025 begins, many of us reflect on ways to improve our well-being. While physical health resolutions often dominate the conversation, mental health is equally vital. In fact, mental well-being is a cornerstone of overall health, influencing how we think, feel, and act daily. This year, let’s make mental health a priority by setting meaningful, achievable goals.

Why Mental Health Matters

• According to the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), 1 in 5 Americans experiences mental illness annually (https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/index.htm).
• Mental health impacts productivity, relationships, and physical health.
• Neglecting mental health can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and other health issues.

Addressing mental health proactively can enhance your resilience, relationships, and quality of life.

Strategies for Setting Your Mental Health Goals

When creating mental health resolutions, focus on specific, realistic actions. Here’s how to get started:

1. Build Self-Compassion and Resilience

• Write 10 affirmations, such as “I’m doing my best,” to use when challenges arise.
• Practice mindfulness for 10 minutes a day to reduce stress and improve focus.
• Identify three coping strategies to implement weekly, like grounding exercises or journaling.

Source: How to set your 2025 mental health new year’s resolutions

2. Strengthen Social Connections

• Reconnect with a friend or family member monthly to maintain strong relationships.
• Join a community group or attend events to foster a sense of belonging.
• Volunteer in your local area to create meaningful connections while giving back.

3. Incorporate Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

• Meditate for five minutes daily to cultivate inner peace.
• Engage in mindful activities like walking, stretching, or eating without distractions.
• Use guided mindfulness apps for added structure and support.

Source: How to set your 2025 mental health new year’s resolutions

4. Set SMART Goals

Ensure your resolutions are:

• Specific: Focus on concrete actions like journaling for 10 minutes each morning.
• Measurable: Track your progress to stay motivated.
• Achievable: Set realistic expectations to avoid burnout.
• Relevant: Align your goals with personal priorities and values.
• Time-bound: Establish deadlines to create a sense of urgency and purpose.

Source: SMART Goals: A How to Guide

5. Monitor and Adjust

Evaluate your progress quarterly. Ask yourself:

• Am I practicing mindfulness consistently?
• Have I become more self-compassionate?
• Are my social connections improving?

Adjust your goals as needed, and remember: mental health is a lifelong journey.

Atracare’s Mental Health Services

Looking for professional support? Atracare offers comprehensive mental health services tailored to your needs, including:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for managing anxiety and depression.
• DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance interpersonal relationships.
• EMDR Therapy to process and heal from trauma.
• Art Therapy to express emotions through creativity.
• Mindfulness Therapy to build stress resilience.

Atracare’s Mental Health Service provides flexible scheduling options, including video and phone sessions, as well as evening and weekend appointments to fit your busy life. Our team is here to support you 365 days a year.

Take the First Step Today

At Atracare, we believe mental health is part of whole-body health. Whether you’re starting your journey or looking to deepen your care, we’re here to help. Text 302-517-1385 to schedule an appointment. You’ll connect with a real person who can guide you to the right services, from mental health to primary care, pediatrics, and urgent care. Atracare accepts all major insurances (https://atracare.com/insurances-accepted/) and offers transparent self-pay costs (https://atracare.com/self-pay-costs/).

Up next: Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room: Making the Right Choice for Your Health. Learn how to make informed decisions about where to seek care during health emergencies, ensuring you get the right treatment at the right time.

Read: “Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room: Making the Right Choice for Your Health”