“Promise me you’ll always remember – you’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – Christopher Robin from Winnie the Pooh
In recent years, a brighter light has been shone on mental illness, which statistics show has grown exponentially. Harvard researchers said the research results demonstrate the high prevalence of mental health disorders worldwide, with 50 percent of the population developing at least one disorder by the age of 75.1
Dear readers, I am not, nor wish to indicate in any way, that I am qualified to expound on mental illness or disorders. That scientific area of study is best left to professionals who can identify, diagnose, and treat said disorders.
To add a historical perspective, it was not that many years ago that mental health illness was met by shunning those who suffered from it or incarcerating individuals to remove them from society. Women, in particular, were often met with that fate. And one only has to watch any commercial television to be bombarded with the many ads for depression medications. Medical science, thankfully, has discovered remedies for clinical depression which has saved lives and brought hope to many.
That being said, I would like to focus my first column of the new year on mental wellness which is defined as “an internal resource that helps us think, feel, connect and function; it is an active process that helps us to build resilience, grow and flourish.”2 I particularly like this definition as it uses the word resource and the word active
And please, readers, I ask you to not equate “happiness” with inner peace and wellness. Happiness is circumstantial while true mental wellness is not situation-based, in my opinion. Let’s talk about some positive actions or decisions which can both spark and maintain that wellness.
Physical activity – this can be anything from walking around your house to running a marathon! There is no “one size fits all” here but a balanced activity schedule which takes you and your current fitness level and your goals into perspective. If you try too hard, too soon, you will lose the incentive. Find what motivates you, challenges you, makes you breathe more deeply, and kicks those feel-good endorphins into gear! Practicing deep breathing will help you cope with stress as well.
Social media/news feed – I hope you all are nodding on this one! Both have their place but please use restraint; try actually having live conversations more often instead of text conversations.
Friends & family – spending time with those who are special to you and with whom you can share positive reinforcement and pleasantries will help you find fun and enjoyment.
Volunteering – from personal experience I can share with you that when you focus on the needs of others and you can make a difference in their lives and well-being you will find that you are uplifted.
Good food – yes, it is true! Good, nutritious and wholesome food and a solid eating plan in place will allow your brain to avoid the junk food/sugar fog that can cloud your thinking as well as do harm to your body.
Nature – while nature does not always cooperate, we should spend time outside as much as we can, away from traffic noise and chaos. Birds are very interesting to observe and have intricate social interactions.
Meditation – whether you find this in prayer, introspection, focus on the breath, find time each day to quiet the mind.
Other endeavors include personal goals; whether that is cleaning your closet or writing a novel, taking (or teaching!) an art class or learning a musical instrument, or spending time walking, petting or grooming your pet.
Let’s look at 2026 as the opportunity to be well – physically, mentally, emotionally, and focus on self-care.
Happy New Year!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.