How You Can Kick Start Your Mental Health Journey for 2025

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A new year is here, and with it comes all the “new year, new you” talk. These are some tips to help you on your mental health journey. But life isn’t magically easier just because the calendar flipped. If the past year felt like a marathon you didn’t sign up for, now might be the time to hit pause and focus on something we all tend to overlook, and that’s mental health.

So, taking care of your mind doesn’t have to mean huge, life-altering resolutions. Actually, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference, like finding peace in unexpected places. Maybe it’s something as simple as adult coloring to calm a busy mind or diving into a new way of understanding your emotions.

But overall, mental health is personal, but starting the journey can be simple. But if you want this for the new year, and you really want to stick to it, where and how do you start?

4 ways to help your mental health journey

Focus on One Change at a Time

For starters, trying to fix everything at once is a surefire way to burn out by February. You need to understand that mental health is about progress, not perfection, and starting small is the way to go.

Just think about one thing that might make life feel a little lighter. Maybe it’s cutting back on late-night scrolling and actually getting some sleep. Maybe it’s carving out 10 minutes of quiet time in the morning before the day’s chaos begins. 

But overall, these aren’t groundbreaking moves, but they add up. So, the trick is to choose something manageable and stick with it. Basically, one small step forward is still a step in the right direction.

Find What Works for You

Now, this can probably be agreed, but mental health advice often feels generic, like meditate, exercise, repeat. It’s not some one-size-fits-all for everyone. For example, if sitting still feels impossible, mindfulness might not be your thing, but a brisk walk outside could help clear your head. 

If talking about your feelings feels like a brick wall no matter how many times you try to “let loose” then you might want to consider other options, like transcranial magnetic stimulation. It could potentially help since it’s a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle magnetic pulses to help improve mood. But for others, it could solely be seeing a psychiatrist and getting a subscription to SSRIs. Overall, it varies for everyone.

Prioritize What Feeds Your Soul

When life gets overwhelming, it’s easy to put your needs last. But taking time for things that recharge you is non-negotiable for your mental health. Okay, just go ahead and think about what makes you feel alive. 

Maybe it’s getting lost in a book, listening to music, or picking up a hobby you’ve put aside. It doesn’t have to be big or fancy. Actually, sometimes, it’s as simple as sitting in the quiet with your thoughts or calling a friend who always knows how to make you laugh.

Be Kind to Yourself

You probably already knew this, but the new year often brings pressure to “get it right,” but mental health doesn’t work that way. There will be good days, bad days, and days when just getting out of bed feels like a win. Instead of beating yourself up when things don’t go as planned, just try giving yourself the grace you’d offer a friend. 

As we step into 2025, there’s no better time to prioritize your mental health and take those first steps toward a healthier, happier you. By setting achievable goals, cultivating positive habits, and seeking support when needed, you can build a strong foundation for your mental well-being. Remember, this journey is unique to you, and progress is progress, no matter how small it may seem. Embrace the process, celebrate your wins, and give yourself grace along the way. Here’s to making 2025 the year of growth, resilience, and self-care—your mental health is worth it!