New year anxieties? Three ways to support your wellbeing now and throughout 2026
The New Year can be an exciting time for many with new plans and goals set out for the year ahead. However, for some, this time can provoke anxiety from the pressure to “start fresh” triggering feelings of uncertainty, pressure, self-reflection, comparison and negative self-talk.
Reflection during this time is natural but when it begins to lead into negative conversations, not feeling enough and fear around what is yet to come, it is important to take a step back and reframe where possible.
Here are three ways to support your wellbeing during this time and throughout 2026:
1. Set realistic goals and make manageable changes
Setting goals for the new year doesn’t need to be avoided but it helps to keep them realistic and break bigger goals into smaller, actionable steps with measurable outcomes to maintain the feeling of progress throughout the journey.
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits said: “Make your habits as easy as possible to start. Anyone can meditate for one minute, read one page, or put one item of clothing away.”
If worries start to take over, celebrating small victories along the way can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.
For wider changes to your thoughts and behaviours, Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that can help you manage your difficulties. While most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression, it can help with several other mental and physical difficulties.
Find and self-refer to your local NHS Talking Therapy service: Find NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression - NHS
2. Prioritise your support system and social connections
Everyone’s support network looks different, but they all provide emotional support when we’re facing difficulties mentally. Sometimes, even a short chat with a friend can lighten the mental load and reduce feelings of stress and isolation.
Scheduling regular catch ups to maintain relationships, joining support communities in your area and ensuring you balance your alone time will support your mental wellbeing.
You can find local community support groups and organisations here: Find a community support group or organisation - GOV.UK
3. Fuel your mind and body
Improving physical wellbeing is one of the most common goals for the new year. But these changes don’t need to happen all at once, it can be part of a wider journey.
Staying nourished and hydrated is crucial for stress and anxiety management. Consider planning meals ahead of time, always having a water bottle on you and being mindful of the choices you make.
Exercise is a proven stress-reliever. Even light movements like walking, yoga, or stretching can boost mood, reduce tension, and improve focus. Physical activity doesn’t have to be intense to be effective so find what you love doing and incorporate it into your day for a healthier mind and body in 2026.
Local Be Well Hubs can support you in your journey. Find out more: Be Well Hubs initiative supports community mental health — South London Listens
Remember that wellbeing isn’t about doing everything perfectly but about creating sustainable habits that support your mental and physical wellbeing. From South London and Maudsley, we wish you a balanced, mindful and fulfilling 2026, however that may look for you.
Crisis support
If you are struggling with your mental health during this time, support is available. Find out more on our website: How to get help in a mental health crisis
If you need urgent help for your mental health, but it's not an emergency:
- Call 0800 731 2864 and choose option 1 to speak to our local mental health crisis line. Tell us if you need an interpreter. We can connect you to local mental health services, including our crisis support teams and peer support services.
- Visit NHS 111 online: Get mental health help - NHS 111
