38 Percent of Americans Plan Mental Health Resolutions for 2026, Survey Finds

The American Psychiatric Association released results from its annual Healthy Minds Poll in early 2026, finding that 38 percent of Americans planned to make a mental health-related New Year's resolution. That figure is five percentage points higher than the previous year's survey.

The increase was sharpest among younger adults. Fifty-eight percent of respondents aged 18 to 34 said they planned a mental health resolution, compared to 29 percent of those aged 55 and older.

Despite the stated intentions, the poll found that anxiety remains high across age groups. Fifty-nine percent of respondents said they feel anxious about personal finances. Fifty-three percent cited uncertainty about the year ahead, and 49 percent said current events are a source of anxiety.

The APA said the results reflect a growing public awareness of mental health, but also a gap between intention and access to care. Many Americans who want to prioritize their mental health face barriers including cost, limited availability of therapists, and long wait times for appointments.

Mental Health America designated its 2026 awareness theme as "More Good Days, Together," emphasizing community-based and personalized approaches to wellness. National Mental Health Awareness Month runs through May, with Mental Health Awareness Week observed May 11 through 17.

The poll also found that AI-powered mental health apps are gaining traction as a supplement to traditional therapy, though the APA noted that these tools raise ethical and privacy questions that have not yet been fully addressed by regulators.

The APA said it plans to release a follow-up survey later in 2026 to assess whether Americans followed through on their mental health goals.