Mental health tips for a healthier 2026

A happier year isn’t just about goals like dieting or saving money, it’s deeply tied to mental and emotional well-being. UCLA Health psychologist Valentina Ogaryan, PhD, outlines simple strategies that help reduce stress and cultivate calm, happiness, and meaning in daily life. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Make Time for Play: Play isn’t just for kids. Engaging in activities purely for fun, dancing, singing, joking around, playing games helps reduce stress, boost optimism, and improve resilience. Fun gives the brain a break from seriousness and supports better emotional health. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Be Kind to Yourself: Treating yourself with compassion like you would a good friend fosters emotional resilience and motivation. Studies show self compassion supports happiness and persistence through challenges. Also, meaningful social connections, talking with friends, laughing with others, or even small positive interactions can deeply enhance mental well being. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Practice Present Moment Awareness: When life feels too large or overwhelming, focusing on the present helps reduce anxiety. Rather than worrying about future uncertainties, focus on one hour or even one action at a time. This present moment awareness makes tasks feel more manageable. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Move Your Body: Physical activity of any kind; walking, dancing, cycling, yoga, hiking or even short bursts of movement, supports mood regulation and brain health. Regular exercise is strongly linked with better self reported mental health and improved sleep, which in turn reduces stress. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Prioritise Sleep: Sleep is essential for managing stress and emotional balance. Sufficient rest reduces the risk of depression and allows your nervous system to restore itself. Good habit, consistent bedtimes, a cool dark room, and limited screens before sleep, all support better rest (Source: Photo by unsplash)

(Source: Photo by unsplash)