Next week we welcome in 2026 (whether we’re ready for it or not!). As the new year draws closer, it could be helpful to do a year-end mental health review. Looking back on how things have gone for you, mental health wise, can be helpful. Not only can you recognize potentially harmful patterns it can also highlight things that impacted you positively, too.
What Went Well?
Think back on the past few months. What has gone well for you? What plans worked out? If you struggle with mental health, what things helped this year? Things you may think about could be spending time with friends or family, attending therapy, trying a new medication, developing coping mechanisms, etc. Try to think about all of these things and it can help you plan for 2026 when it comes to maintaining good mental health.
What Didn’t Work?
It’s also important to think about what things didn’t work. Maybe you tried yoga on a suggestion from someone but it didn’t turn out to be as relaxing or meditative as you needed. Journaling may not be your thing. Or maybe you tried hard to work on being more positive at work but it turns out the problem wasn’t your outlook but that the job is a bad fit for you. Think about any patterns you may have noticed that came up before a bad mental health day. Did you notice a weather link? A seasonal pattern?
What Were the Highlights?
What things happened this past year that really brought you joy and comfort? The wins in your life are as important to reflect on as things you want to improve. The ways you’ve persevered are important to your overall well-being. Your successes should be celebrated and your joy should be cherished.
Make a Plan
Think about what you want to do more or less of over the next 12 months that may support your mental health. Having a plan in place can also be helpful for dealing with really difficult days. Knowing who you can reach out to, what coping mechanisms may be important to you, and what things you may need to back away from could all be part of that plan. Planning for good mental health or potential bad days isn’t just something people experiencing acute crises need to do. It can be an important way to take care of yourself, like preventative medicine.
