In the Word of God, it talks a lot about our thoughts and how we are to channel them. In modern terms, we can turn that into developing mental health goals.

Honestly, after what we have faced the last two years, it should be pretty easy to determine the mental health goals to construct for our lives in 2022. Yet, it still may not be easy for some people to do so. It’s also important to take into account any new traumas, stressors or surprises that have recently been added to your life. Additionally, you should take note of any other factors that may have caused your mental health to suffer. Then, you can use all of that information to help you formulate effective mental health goals for 2022.

Some mental health goals to consider shooting for in 2022

1. Manage stress

Stress is a part of everyone's life — and some stress is good for us — but too much stress can harm our health. Set time aside each day to relieve the adverse effects of stress through meditation, yoga or another stress-relieving activity. You might enjoy regular prayer time, or reading a new devotional.

2. Choose positivity

Mental health goals should always include more positivity. If you make it a point to focus on the positive aspects of life rather than the negative, you are likely to notice an improvement in your overall well-being. Try to catch yourself when negativity creeps into your thoughts and replace it with something more productive.

3. Learn something new

Whether learning a new language or taking up a new hobby, learning something new is a great way to keep both mind and body active and engaged. If you are interested in learning something new, tons of resources are available to help you get started.

You can also set small everyday goals such as learning to eat healthier or exercising regularly. When setting goals, make sure they are realistic, so they are achievable. Set deadlines for yourself and reward yourself with something special when you meet them.

4. Pick a hobby or activity that interests you

Whether it's something physical like going for a run, playing your guitar, or planting a garden, do something that captures your attention for more than 10 minutes. Perhaps your hobbies are more intellectual, like reading an exciting book or writing something philosophical. Find something that will give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Including something of interest in your daily life can make mental health goals easier to follow through on regularly.

5. Get outside 

It's easy to feel trapped inside while living with technology, but getting outdoors is essential for your physical and mental health goals. You'll also find yourself more open to new ideas and solutions if you're not constantly distracted by your phone and other devices. That’s why you should consider leaving your electronics behind while you do an outdoor activity. 

6.  Get plenty of sleep every night

A lack of sleep can cause stress, undermining your ability to think clearly and make sound decisions; it can also undermine your ability to work toward your mental health goals. There are many things you can do to ensure you’re sleeping well. One is to set an alarm clock so that, even if it's just for 15 minutes, you'll have time to relax before bedtime. This can make it easier for you to fall and stay asleep.

7. Eat well-balanced meals at regular times each day

Make sure you eat enough nutrient-rich foods each day, including lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Ensuring that you are giving your body everything it needs is essential to meeting your mental health goals. After all, your brain is part of your body.

8. Find healthy coping strategies

Coping strategies are different for everyone. Some people might rely on friends or family for prayer and encouragement. Others need more alone time or exercise, but everyone needs a process to fall back on when life gets rough. Take some time to explore different coping strategies and determine which can work for you.

9. Remember the good things in life

Sometimes all it takes to lift your mood is remembering what makes you happy. Permitting yourself to enjoy something simple like a walk in the park or an extra few minutes in bed in the morning can be enough to lift your mood all day.

10. Accept that emotion is normal

We don't all experience every emotion in the same way or intensity. Some days, everything feels amazing; other days, we feel terrible. But feeling bad doesn't mean something is wrong with you, and feeling good doesn't mean everything is OK either.

It's normal to experience highs and lows no matter how well you're doing overall. And sometimes, it can be helpful just to allow yourself to feel whatever you're feeling. Even if that means you feel sad or upset or angry for a while.

11. Stop overthinking

Overthinking leads to stress and can cause you to obsess over things that don't matter. If you find yourself overthinking things, take a break and do something relaxing like yoga or meditation. Taking a break can help calm your mind and allow your brain some downtime to rest and recover from the damage of overthinking. Don't allow overthinking to undermine your other mental health goals.

Do something every day that gives you a sense of accomplishment. You can include anything from checking off a task on your daily to-do list to doing something nice for yourself, like taking a bubble bath or going for a walk after work. This goal will help you feel productive, keep stress levels down and give yourself some control over life's uncertainties.

Remember that God wants our minds to be blessed too. That is why we are encouraged to think about the things above. Things that are heavenly and full of peace because, after all, our mindset heavily influences the direction of our lives. Prayerfully consider the mental health goals that could be best for you.

Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey

At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. You can also find out what our community’s purpose and passion are all about by checking out some of the past sermons we’ve posted on our website. 

Do you want to grow in your faith, or are you simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our podcast series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.