The Taney County Health Department suggests a possible New Year's Resolution.

The full release from the TCHD is below:

New Year’s resolutions often focus on physical health, but what about setting goals to support mental health? Activities such as mindfulness, staying active, and connecting with others can improve mental wellbeing. Knowing where to find mental health resources is also essential for getting support during difficult times. The Taney County Health Department (TCHD) encourages everyone to prioritize mental health alongside physical health in 2026, because a healthy mind matters. 

“January is nationally recognized as Mental Wellness Month” shares Kara Miller, Health Educator at TCHD. “Focusing on mental wellbeing at the beginning of the year will help people start the new year off strong. Taking care of your own mental health can make a positive difference in all aspects of your life.”

Here are a few ways to prioritize mental wellness in 2026: 
• Practice Mindfulness: Meditate, breath deeply, or spend more time in nature. 
• Connect: Talk with friends, family members, or trusted mental health professionals.
• Move Your Body: Try doing an enjoyable physical activity. 
• Set Manageable Goals: Make realistic resolutions to avoid stress. 
• Use Resources: Access community mental health services or employee assistance programs.

For those experiencing a mental health challenge, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a life-saving resource used nationwide. Anyone can call, text, or chat 988 and speak to a trained mental health professional 24/7. 988 offers free, confidential support to anyone in need. 

Suicide prevention resources are also here locally. TCHD offers free suicide prevention training called QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer). Participants will learn the warning signs of someone who is having a mental health crisis and how to connect them with resources. Trained TCHD staff will bring this one-hour class to any group in Taney County.

Start the year strong by prioritizing mental health. Please contact the Taney County Health Department at 417-334-4544 ext. 594 or visit www.taneyhealth.gov with any additional questions about this important topic. To keep up with more TCHD updates visit our website at www.taneyhealth.gov, or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.