Survey: Americans Eager to Boost Mental Health in New Year's Resolutions

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) found that three-quarters of Americans are planning to adopt better lives by focusing more on mental health care next year.

APA's Healthy Minds Monthly survey of over 2,000 individuals in early December spotlights Americans' goals across age groups.

Individuals with mental health resolutions expressed their intentions to incorporate various practices into their lives.

A significant 67% plan to exercise more, 49% intend to embrace meditation, 26% will keep a diary, and 35% are considering seeking therapy, while 21% contemplate consulting with a psychiatrist.

Young Ones More Concerned About Mental Health

Age played a pivotal role in determining the likelihood of someone focusing on mental health resolutions. The survey found that more than two in five young adults aged 18-34 (44%) expressed an intention to adopt resolutions related to mental health, in stark contrast to only 7% of seniors.

Apart from mental health, respondents highlighted various resolutions that contribute to overall well-being. Popular resolutions included a focus on spirituality (40%), reducing social media usage (31%), using mental health apps (21%), and adopting "forest bathing," an immersive experience in natural green spaces chosen by 6% of respondents.

Beyond mental health, the survey identified a diverse range of resolutions: Physical fitness (39%), Finances (34%), Diet (26%), Social/relationships (22%), Traveling (21%), Hobbies/skill-based (18%), Organization/decluttering (15%), Professional/career (13%), Giving/volunteering (12%).

Experts Share Important Tips for Keeping the Mind Healthy

APA President Dr. Petros Levounis acknowledged the New Year as a symbol of new opportunities, encouraging individuals not only to embrace change but also to maintain healthy routines and relationships. Dr. Levounis emphasized the importance of proactive mental health care, aligning it with the significance of physical health maintenance.

Neuropsychologist Dr. Judy Ho highlighted the positive impact of exercise on mental well-being, emphasizing how it alters brain chemistry and contributes to an overall sense of strength.

"Exercise increases the amount of happy and excitatory neurotransmitters in your brain, including endorphins and dopamine," according to Judy Ho, Ph.D., a triple board-certified and licensed clinical and forensic neuropsychologist based in Manhattan Beach, California, per Forbes.

Dr. Allyson Leverich of Mirrored Waters Counseling underscored the pivotal role of community interactions in mental health. She recommended practical steps for families, such as reducing screen time during meals, engaging in family game nights, and fostering connections within the community, as per a report from The Northern Express.

The APA's CEO and Medical Director, Dr. Saul Levin, urged individuals to consider the change in the year as an opportunity to prioritize mental health. He encouraged people to explore new strategies for self-care, emphasizing that mental health care need not be confined to specific holidays but can be integrated into daily life.

"That said, the change in year is a terrific excuse to try something new to care for your mental health," he noted, as quoted by US News & World Report.