Recommendations for prioritizing mental health in the new year

January 8th, 2024

This Oct. 16, 2012, file photo, shows a portion of the UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s campus in Minnetonka, Minn. (AP Photo/Jim Mone, File)

A recent study shows that in 2024, 36% of people said that improving mental health was their number one priority for the new year.

Dr. Stephen Palte, chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare of Georgia, joined “All Things Considered” to discuss the growing movement and recommend essential steps toward a healthier and more fulfilling year ahead.

Palte said the most important steps are to find a social support system, as well as making good habits for sleep and exercise.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a third of the population sleeps less than seven hours a night.

Finally, Palte said there are many resources available through doctors, community health centers and health insurance companies to help connect people with help, ranging from free self-help products to mental health providers.

Christopher Alston contributed to this report.