New Year resolutions 'bad for health'

So decided to turn over a new leaf in 2009? Just give a second thought, for a New Year resolution could do you more harm than good, according to a mental health charity in Britain.

So decided to turn over a new leaf in 2009? Just give a second thought, for a New Year resolution could do you more harm than good, according to a mental health charity in Britain.

Mind has urged people not to try to stick to New Year resolutions for self-improvement.

According to the charity, resolutions which focus on physical imperfections, such as bids to lose weight, create a negative self image and lead to feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem and even mild depression.

And when those optimistic resolutions fail that could trigger feelings of failure and inadequacy, the charity said.

"New Year's resolutions can sometimes focus on our problems or insecurities such as being overweight, feeling unhappy in our jobs or feeling guilty about not devoting enough time to friends and family throughout the year.

"We chastise ourselves for our perceived shortcomings and set unrealistic goals to change our behaviour, so it's not surprising that when we fail to keep resolutions, we end up feeling worse than when we started.

"In 2009, instead of making a New Year's resolution, think positively about the year to come and what you can achieve," Mind Chief Executive Paul Farmer was quoted by 'The Daily Telegraph' as saying.

And, instead of easily broken resolutions the charity has suggested a few steps to improve all round mental health in 2009: Being active -- exercise releases endorphins and even a gentle stroll is beneficial for your mental wellbeing; going green -- evidence has shown that connecting with nature can boost moods; and learn something new -- it will keep your mind stimulated and give you confidence in your abilities.