For many, the new year brings talk of resolutions, fresh starts and a ‘new year, new me’. For some, setting resolutions may benefit their mental health, but for others it may not so before setting any new year goals, think about whether this will be helpful for you or just another added pressure.
At the top of any to do list should be taking care of yourself and looking after your physical and mental health. While the festive season is over there is still plenty to look forward to, to help boost your self-care and wellbeing throughout 2026.
Connect with nature
Spending time outdoors in the fresh air and close to nature is a great way to improve and boost your mental wellbeing. Why not get involved with one our outdoor challenges to help you connect with nature and boost your endorphins and exposure to vitamin D.
Learn more about our upcoming challenges by visiting our events page.
Try something new and different
Trying something out of your comfort zone can have a positive impact on your mental health as when we are open to trying new experiences it can make life feel interesting and rewarding with a greater sense of achievement.
We are looking for volunteers at Hope and Mind at LSCFT, could you make 2026 the year you try something new and volunteer? Volunteering increasing self-confidence, purpose, and social connection whilst helping others. Like most charities we need volunteers to continue to support our local communities and provide our vital services.
Physical challenges
Exercise plays a vital role in supporting physical and mental health. Regular movement or exercise can help to regulate mood, reduce symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety and support wellbeing. It can also boost confidence, self-esteem, improve sleep and encourage social interaction. Structured training plans also bring a sense of routine and training milestones which often help people stay focussed and motivated.
In 2026 why not consider signing up for a physical challenge? This could be anything from a walking event, bike ride, mountain climb or swim to a marathon and beyond. If you choose to support Hope and Mind at LSCFT through fundraising, we can support you along the way!
Giving and kindness
We know that taking on challenges, volunteering or fundraising isn’t for everybody, but you may still want to support us. Research by the University of Oxford has shown that showing support for charities, donating money and helping strangers can improve your wellbeing and sense of self-worth. Any donation however big or small will allow us to continue our mission to reduce health inequalities and break stigma surrounding mental health.
Get in touch with our Charity team to find out more about how your kindness can help others and you too. If you’ve got a fundraising idea you’d like to discuss then please get in touch by e-mailing LSCFTCharity@lscft.nhs.uk
Whatever you choose to do, together we can support brighter futures for our communities.
