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Dear Editor:
January can mean many different things to people: a clean slate, the start of something new, or the chance to change things they didn’t like from the past year. It’s a month of introspection as people challenge themselves to become a better version of who they are now.
For some, this is a welcome opportunity, while for many others the new year can feel overwhelming. There’s pressure to make big changes by committing to lofty resolutions in an attempt to overhaul their life. It can take a toll on anyone.
This month has been dedicated as Mental Wellness Month. It serves as a reminder to take care of oneself, especially during a season of change.
While the beginning of a new year does serve as a natural opportunity for change in all aspects of life, those changes don’t have to be large to make a difference. Setting small goals with more flexibility in how they’re measured can combat the discouragement someone may feel when they haven’t met a rigid goal. For instance, saying you want to walk more rather than committing to a certain step count a day or that you want to read more instead of finishing a book every week. It changes the perspective on progress.
While people take this opportunity to analyze themselves and their lives, it can lead to a multitude of different feelings. Not all those feelings are positive. When taking these moments to reflect, it can also lead to comparison of others in similar life stages or fields of work. This typically produces negative thoughts as people weren’t made to be a measuring tool for others’ progress. Personal growth can’t be measured by another person. This is important to remember when last year’s achievements and this year’s goals are popular conversation topics.
For some, recognizing Mental Wellness Month may look like addressing mental battles they’ve been experiencing. One commitment everyone can make is to learn more about mental health issues and how to help. Knowing more can make a difference in someone’s life.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10 to 24. Four out of five people considering suicide give warning signs, whether it’s verbally or behaviorally. Knowing these warning signs, and what to do when you recognize one, can mean the difference of someone’s life.
The Jason Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth and young adult suicide through education. They offer training videos, materials, and other resources at no cost. To access these videos, order materials, or find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office, visit JasonFoundation.com.
As you make your list of 2026 goals, make sure to include learning more about youth suicide and how you can help. Doing so can not only change your life but change someone else’s as well.
Mallory Wire
Division Director
The Jason Foundation, Inc.