Resolution 2022: Drop emotional weight and focus on mental health

As the New Year approaches, how many of us will resolve to lose a little weight or improve our physical health? This year, I challenge you to resolve to drop some of the emotional weight you’ve been carrying and strengthen your mental health.

In its most recent Stress in America Survey, the American Psychological Association found almost two-thirds of U.S. adults report weight and sleep changes, one-fourth report drinking more alcohol, half have delayed or canceled health care services and half of parents report increased stress. Black Americans are most likely to report concern about the future.

Younger people are struggling substantially. Gen Z adults are the generation most likely to report their mental health has worsened during the pandemic. A national study of children’s mental health reports emergency room visits for mental health concerns have increased by a third for children ages 5-17, and more than 140,000 children have experienced the death of a caregiver during the pandemic, with children of color disproportionately affected.

So how do we address these sobering statistics? Consider these 2022 resolutions:

Make time to acknowledge and process losses.

Take care of your physical health: improve sleep, healthy eating, and exercise.

Keep an eye on those who may be struggling, especially young persons and the underprivileged.

Seek support from others. NAMI-Linn County (namilinncounty.org) offers family and peer support group options.

If you notice increasing mental health symptoms, hopelessness or suicidal thoughts, seek professional care immediately.

Let’s ring in 2022 with a resolution to look ahead to the future, with realistic hope for positive change!

Stacey Pawlak, Ph.D, is a board member for NAMI-Linn County.