Gone are the days when it’s taboo to talk about our mental health or be told that our physical health is the only thing that matters. We know that paying attention to our state of mind is as important as, say, the number of bruises on our body. And looking after our mental health is, ultimately, up to us.
It might sound daunting at first, to think about this ‘burden’ but it’s a lot easier to cross this mental health bridge when you break it down and make a list of what you need to do. After all, every journey starts with a step, and this quest is no different.
Here are some mental health goals you should add to your list.
Goal 1: Make time for you
It’s wonderful to be in a relationship or to spend time shooting the breeze with your friends and family. But what is often underestimated is some alone time. Make yourself a priority and ask yourself, what makes you happy? Then, well, just do it.
It could be something simple like spending two hours every weekend reading or dancing along to your favourite music in the privacy of your bedroom three times a week. Or perhaps something that requires a little bit more effort, like signing up for a yoga class or learning a new language. As long as it’s something you’re doing for you, it’s what you need to escape into yourself and enjoy.
Goal 2: Remove yourself from toxic relationships
Who Are the Toxic Friends You Should Avoid?
We all know that type of person who can make a sunny day feel like a soggy Sunday. They’re the ones who turn progress into a snooze-fest, sprinkle negative vibes over your self‑confidence, and urge you to adopt habits that are more “bad” than “wonderful.”
What Red Flags Light Up the Danger Zone
- Control Freaks: They’re always steering the conversation, demanding you do things just the way they’ve got it.
- Master Liars: If the truth can’t keep up, they’ll fabricate stories to fit their narrative.
- Energy Vampires: They drain your time, money, and enthusiasm, leaving you with nothing but an empty cup.
- Self‑Serving Only: “I’m here for you?” Nope, unless you’re offering them more of your resources.
Why You Need to Walk Away
Staying with these people feels like walking on a treadmill that slopes downwards—no matter how fast you run, you’re moving toward the “low‑brow” side of life. Don’t let them grind your self‑worth. It’s a freebie your mental health doesn’t need at any cost.
What to Do Instead
Find folks who:
- Boost Your Energy: They lift you up, not pull you down.
- Encourage Growth: A good friend gives you the space to blossom.
- Share In Kindness: They’re there to help, not to snipe.
Because you deserve a crew that celebrates your wins, laughs at your quirks, and keeps the vibes high—so you can finally do what’s best for you.
Goal 3: Unplug from technology/social media
There’s no need to delete your Instagram account or disconnect your WiFi at home. All you need is mini tech breaks. While social media has its benefits, it also inevitably causes us to compare our lives to others – even though we know that social media posts are just a fragment (often the most positive or unrealistic one) of everyone’s lives.
Seeing envy-inducing posts could trigger anxiety and/or FOMO, or feelings of depression when it seems like everyone has more exciting and productive lives than ours.
Plus, when you’re online for extended periods of time, it’s easy to fall down the rabbit hole of YouTube or even get obsessed Googling about a particular celebrity or trend. Schedule some time regularly to unplug from technology and live in the real world instead.
Goal 4: Set boundaries
A big aspect of this is learning how to say ‘no’. If you’re doing something that isn’t quite right for you, you’ll be stressed or anxious. So don’t agree to do things just because you’re afraid of letting someone down.
On the other hand, it’s also good to step out of your comfort zone and say ‘yes’ more often if it’s something that interests you and might lead you to explore a new side of you. Basically, decide what is right for you and what makes you happy, instead of letting others dictate what you should or shouldn’t do.
ALSO READ: 5 Instagram accounts by psychologists and therapists to follow if you have anxiety
Goal 5: Get active
Exercise is obviously good for your physical health but did you know it can also work wonders for your mental state?
Leading a sedentary life puts you at a higher risk for conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, so it’s good to get moving. Exercise also reduces anxiety and depression, plus it improves your mood and gives you more energy to do the things you enjoy. You’ll even sleep better.
So set aside time to get active, whether it’s hiking, cycling, swimming or doing home workouts. Join a fitness class or search online for workout videos you can do from home. Try to do at least 30 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity three times a week to experience the benefits.
Goal 6: Love yourself
Why You Should Love Yourself First
Before you dive into a romance, make room in your heart for self-love—it’s the root of all healthy relationships.
The Basics of Self‑Care
- Invest time in the same way you’d nurture a friendship—schedule a “me‑time” every week.
- Aim to shut down the inner critic; nobody’s a flawless superstar.
- Remember the golden rule: “You deserve the same kindness you give others.”
It’s All About Mindset
Every day, remind yourself that mental health = happiness. A steady, calm mind keeps the life ups and downs in a pleasant rhythm.
Love Your Body—No Matter What
- All body shapes are fabulous; the key is to celebrate the unique spark each one carries.
- Practice gratitude for your own story—no comparison required.
Keep that love circle spinning: you, your health, and the vivid world around you. Happy, carefree, and gloriously you!
Goal 7: Ask for help
You’d go to the doctor if you have a physical issue or pain, so why wouldn’t you get help if you are struggling mentally? Make it a goal to reach out if you feel like you can’t cope. Speak to a close family member or friend, or make an appointment with a professional. Don’t suffer in silence.
ALSO READ: Free mental health hotlines and counselling services for support in Singapore
Where else to get help
• National Care Hotline: 1800-202-6868 (8am – 12am)
Mental well-being
• Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
• Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444 (24 hours) /1-767 (24 hours)
• Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
• Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
• Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788 and www.tinklefriend.sg
• Community Health Assessment Team: 6493-6500/1 and www.chat.mentalhealth.sg
Counselling
• TOUCHline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
• TOUCH Care Line (for seniors, caregivers): 6804-6555
• Care Corner Counselling Centre: 1800-353-5800
Online resources
• mindline.sg
• My Mental Health: stayprepared.sg/mymentalhealth
• Fei Yue’s Online Counselling Service: eC2.sg
This article was first published in Her World Online.
mental healthHealth and WellbeingWomenTips
