2024 Mental Health Resolutions

Making a bold move for emotional wellness

There’s nothing more important than your mental health. Like our physical health, we all have mental health. It’s like the weather inside our minds, sometimes sunny and bright, sometimes cloudy and stormy.

What is the biggest change you want to make to improve your mental health in 2024? Why? How will you do it?

Bipolar disorder sharpened my focus on mental health. After two years of stability, I stay vigilant, actively managing my well-being.

Just like a healthy engine powers a car forward, your mental health fuels your well-being. When it’s out of balance, life feels like a challenging uphill climb. You may experience frequent sadness, tears, hopelessness, and exhaustion. Unbearable stress and constant worry about negative events may weigh you down.

In 2023, I cultivated positive habits. Now, in 2024, I am determined to propel my well-being even higher. Here’s how I plan to achieve this.

Establish a steadfast morning medication routine

Ok, I admit it. I’m guilty. I sometimes forget to take my meds. While the desire to be medication-free is understandable, the stabilising benefits of my prescribed medication outweigh the minor side effects. The occasional lapse has minimal impact, but the consequences could escalate if this becomes habitual.

I’m on a low dosage of Abilify (Aripiprazole). The only noticeable side effect is occasional drowsiness. Maintaining my mental health and well-being is paramount, and adhering to my medication routine is an essential part of that journey.

Working consistently with a mental health care team (psychiatrist and therapist)

I will continue to regularly consult my local doctor for a healthy discussion about my well-being. Every few months, I see a psychiatrist, engaging in beneficial conversations.

Strong relationships significantly contribute to good mental health; prioritise them.

I will resolve to spend more time with close friends and family.

Routinely exercise 3–4 times a week

When your body shifts, your mind lifts.

Joining a local running club has boosted my motivation and helped me achieve my running goals. Healthy eating, a balanced lifestyle, adequate sleep, and regular exercise all contribute to both physical and mental well-being. My long-term ambition is to conquer a marathon, but for now, I’ll prioritise consistent running to build a strong foundation.

Read and write daily

Writing is weightlifting of the mind. Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.

I like non-fiction, particularly books on human psychology and behaviour. Here’s my Goodreads book list from the last 6 months.

I travel by tram to work daily, so this is the perfect time to get an hour of reading in. It’s a great workout for the mind.

Finding time to write my blogs on Medium is challenging, but I do it. Your writing will atrophy if it’s neglected.

Write regularly on medium, 3–4 blog posts a week at least. That’s my goal in 2024.

Cold showers

It’s suggested that cold showers positively impact mental health. The shock triggers endorphin release, reducing stress and anxiety (Source: Texas Health).

I’m gonna introduce this to my routine, along with some breathing exercises when I take a shower.

Discover things that make you happy and devote time to them daily.

Do more in ’24. I’m looking forward to bringing my family back from China for the summer in Ireland. I’ve loads of activities planned and will make some memories for sure.

Embracing neuroplasticity, I’ll explore new places, as I find travel beneficial for the brain.

Thank you for reading