Let’s face it, New Year’s resolutions suck, and we’re just as bad at keeping them. After the glam and glitter of the festive period, even if it’s a little more low key this year than most years, January and February are dull, cold, and grey. The desire to stay warm in bed is stronger than the need to go to the gym, and warming comfort food isn’t always fitting with a healthy diet.
If you’re wanting to make changes in the new year, then great! And there are plenty of resolutions you can make that are beneficial to you while still being realistic and achievable. We have some realistic self-care strategies to help take small steps to manage your mental health at the toughest time of the year.
Make time for self-care
Make a list of activities that you enjoy and that make you happy, and be sure to schedule them into your daily or weekly schedule.
Be kind to yourself
Making changes can be hard and do often take time. Allow yourself to have feelings and forgive yourself for mistakes. You can’t un-eat that chocolate biscuit you relented on, so don’t beat yourself up about cheating on your diet.
Make sleep a priority
Sleep and mental health are very connected. Between 65 to 90 per cent of people with depressive disorders also have sleeping issues. In 2021, try getting more early nights, giving your body the rest it needs.
Limit your screen time
Too much time spent staring at your phone or computer will impact your sleep, relationships, and can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. Limit your exposure to social media, and be wary of your exposure to the news too.
Learn more about mental health
A great way to improve your mental health is to understand it better. Search online for trusted resources that provide information about common mental health conditions. Knowledge is power!
If you are making the effort to eat and drink consciously and healthily, consider CBD alcohol free drinks to supplement your health kick to promote relaxation and calm!