Americans Increasingly Prioritizing Mental Health: 38 Percent Plan Wellness Resolutions for 2026

A landmark survey by the American Psychiatric Association's Healthy Minds Poll reveals a significant shift in how Americans approach their well-being, with 38% of respondents planning to make mental health-related resolutions for 2026, representing a 5% increase from the previous year. The poll, which surveyed 2,208 U.S. Adults in December 2025, found that mental health has become the third most popular resolution category, trailing only physical fitness at 44% and financial goals at 42%. The trend is particularly pronounced among younger Americans, with 58% of adults aged 18-34 planning mental health resolutions, compared to 32% of those aged 45-64 and just 11% of those 65 and older. The survey also revealed the top sources of anxiety heading into 2026: personal finances topped the list at 59%, followed by uncertainty about the coming year at 53%, current events at 49%, physical health at 46%, and mental health itself at 42%. In terms of self-assessment, 63% of Americans rated their mental health as excellent or good in 2025, while 28% rated it as fair and 8% as poor. Mental health professionals are encouraged by the growing awareness but note that access to care remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural and underserved communities. The APA emphasized that making mental health resolutions is a positive first step, but encouraged Americans to seek professional support when needed, noting that mental health conditions are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. The findings suggest a cultural shift toward viewing mental wellness as an essential component of overall health, on par with physical fitness and financial security.