New Year, True Me
The start of a new year can bring a mix of emotions.
While some feel hopeful and excited about a fresh start, others may experience worry, sadness, or pressure. It’s a time when many of us reflect on the past year and think about changes we’d like to make, but this can sometimes take a toll on our mental health.
A range of things can affect mental health around the New Year. Reflecting on the past year can sometimes bring feelings of regret or low self-esteem, especially if things didn’t go as planned. The darker winter months may contribute to sadness or fatigue, particularly for those experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Financial stress from Christmas spending can also add to feelings of worry, and for those without strong support systems, the New Year period may amplify loneliness. On top of this, the pressure to set and achieve ambitious resolutions can feel overwhelming, especially when comparing progress to others.
To help support our local community throughout the New Year period, we’ve put together a series of tips to help you manage your mental health during this time.
10 tips for looking after your mental health over the New Year
Set realistic goals
If you make resolutions, keep them small, specific, and achievable. Focus on steps you can take, rather than aiming for perfection.
Be kind to yourself
Treat yourself with compassion and remember it’s okay not to have everything figured out. Progress takes time.
Limit social media
Avoid comparing your life to others online, as it can create unnecessary pressure. Take breaks if needed to focus on yourself.
Stay active
Gentle exercise, even a walk outside, can boost your mood and help reduce stress, especially during the darker winter months.
Connect with others
Reach out to friends, family, or community groups. Talking to someone you trust can help ease feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Stick to a routine
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating balanced meals, and having daily activities can provide stability and improve mental wellbeing.
Manage finances carefully
If money is a source of stress, create a simple budget to regain control. Focus on small, manageable steps to ease financial worries.
Practice mindfulness
Spend time focusing on the present through activities like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling to help calm your mind.
Get support if needed
If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help. We offer a range of support such as one to one counselling, group support and more. Read more here.
The Mental Health Support Line is also available 24/7 over the New Year period. If you need support, call 0800 138 0990 (freephone).
Celebrate small wins
Take time to acknowledge and appreciate your achievements, no matter how small. Every step forward is progress.
Keep an eye out on our social channels
This year, we’re excited to launch our new campaign: ‘New Year, True Me.’
We’re saying goodbye to the pressure of the ‘New Year, New Me’ mindset and embracing the idea of celebrating what truly matters to you. The start of the year doesn’t have to be about becoming someone entirely different—it’s about recognising the progress you’ve made and honouring the small and big victories in your life.
Whether you managed to get out of bed on a tough day, took the brave step of starting therapy, or achieved a milestone like buying a house in 2024, it all deserves to be celebrated. No win is too small, and no effort goes unnoticed.
Follow along on our social channels to join the conversation, find inspiration, and share your own moments of triumph.
