5 Ways to Boost Your Mental Health This Year

As we embark on 2025, many people are crafting resolutions and intentions about how they want to live better in the future. 

We often think of improving our physical health by eating better and exercising more. Still, we can’t forget how critical caring for our mental health is as well. Our physical and mental health are interconnected, so reflecting on steps to take to improve mental health over the next 12 months makes sense.

Our compassionate team at Clarity Psychiatric Care takes a holistic approach to your mental health and is committed to creating a treatment plan that’s customized to you. The same goes for our conversations about what you can do to support your mental health. We are partners in your care in every way.

What you can do to nurture your mental well-being in the coming year

Our team has created a list of tips, including effective and achievable strategies for caring for your mental health.

1. Fuel yourself

We can’t overemphasize how important proper nutrition is to your mental health. “You are what you eat” is true, especially regarding how you feel emotionally. 

Here are some interesting facts relating to nutrition and mental health. The neurotransmitter serotonin regulates your appetite and sleeping patterns (more on the importance of good rest later) and moderates your moods. Approximately 95% of a person’s serotonin is made in their gastrointestinal tract, so your gut and mental health are closely connected. 

The production of serotonin and other neurotransmitters is impacted by how much “good” bacteria is in your microbiome. These bacteria curb inflammation, help you absorb nutrients from your food, and activate neural pathways between your gut and brain. 

Research has shown that the risk of depression is 25-35% lower in people who eat the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and healthy fats. 

Focusing on fresh produce, fish, and unprocessed grains and having just a bit of lean meat and dairy is what you should aim for.

2. Get enough Zzzzs

Sleep deprivation is associated with both depression and anxiety. In fact, about 75% of people living with depression experience insomnia.

You can improve your sleep by practicing good sleep hygiene. But what does this look like?

Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature, develop relaxing nighttime rituals like taking a bath or having some tea and reading, and make your bedroom a tech-free zone. 

Treating any sleep conditions, such as sleep apnea, is also important.

3. Move more

Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, five days a week, is essential for optimal mental health. 

You don’t have to be a “jock” to make this happen. Walking your dog, cycling around the neighborhood, gardening, and even cleaning your house all count.

Physical activity helps you emotionally by releasing “feel good” chemicals, like serotonin and endorphins. It also promotes sleep, and, depending on what type of exercise you’re doing, it can help you connect with new people. We know social connection is good for us mentally. So, consider an exercise class or playing a team sport for these essential benefits.

4. Be conscious about seeing the good in situations

Support your mental health by becoming more conscious of what you are grateful for. Think about three good things that happened during your day, and stop worrying and thinking of worst-case scenarios.

Keeping a gratitude journal, being conscious of positive interactions, and thinking, “What’s the best that could happen?” can all help.

5. Build and maintain connections with others

Connecting with loved ones can help when you’re experiencing a challenge. However, getting together with a friend for coffee or hosting a family dinner also significantly boosts your mental wellness.

These practices can help you stay mentally healthy this year, and they complement the treatment you get from your Clarity Psychiatric Care provider as well, whether you’re living with a mental health diagnosis or working on dealing with a temporary challenge, such as a major life transition.

Contact our Cherry Hill office at 856-428-1260 to schedule an appointment with us or book online.