ARE YOU AN APWU BARGAINING UNIT EMPLOYEE?

Health and Wellness Blog

Virtual visits: Preparing for your telehealth appointment

,

Virtual visits offer convenient access to health care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Rather than scheduling an in-person appointment at a doctor’s office, you can video chat or speak with a provider using a smartphone, computer, or tablet. It’s a great way to get the care you need for minor health conditions without leaving home. Following a few tips will help you get the most from your telehealth visits.

The mental health benefits of exercise: How physical activity can ease the symptoms of depression and anxiety

,

Exercise is good for your body. It can help you maintain a healthy weight and decrease your risk of developing cancer, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. But exercise is also good for your mental health. It can reduce tension and stress, improve your concentration, and stabilize your mood. People who exercise feel more energetic throughout the day and sleep better at night. But did you know that regular physical activity can also help you manage depression and anxiety?

6 ways to eat well on a tight budget

Eating a healthy diet is essential for your physical health and emotional wellbeing. When you’re living on a tight budget, finding nutritious, affordable food can be a challenge. While fast food may be tasty and filling, it also tends to be loaded with calories, saturated fat, and added sugars. And despite what some may think, fast food is rarely cheaper than eating healthy, home-cooked meals. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to can enjoy healthy food without breaking the bank.

Avoid the holiday blues with tips to help you manage stress and anxiety

Many people consider the holidays to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for some the added stress of the season may cause feelings of anxiety and depression. Different things can trigger the holiday blues—unrealistic expectations, sentimental memories, the inability to be with friends or family. Planning ahead and taking care of yourself can help you minimize stress and find peace and joy during the holiday season.

Cervical cancer screenings: Early detection may lead to successful treatment

Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Screening tests can find cervical cancer early, when treatment tends to be more successful. Screenings can also detect abnormal cells that may be pre-cancers, so they can be treated before the cells turn into cervical cancer. The most important thing you can do to help prevent cervical cancer is to have regular screenings starting at age 21.

Creative ways to add more fruits and veggies to your diet

,

The best way to get all of the nutrients you need each day is to brighten your plate with fruits and vegetables. Eating a rainbow of colorful foods adds flavor and texture to your meals, along with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Most are naturally low in calories and contain essential nutrients that can help prevent heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses. If fruits and veggies aren’t your thing, you can still sneak them into your meals.

Exercising at home: Easy exercises for couch potatoes

,

Many of us spend a lot of time each day sitting in front of a screen. Sitting for long periods of time can take a toll on your health, especially if you sit for more than eight hours a day with little or no physical activity. Fortunately, moderate exercise can counter the negative health effects of too much sitting. That’s why it’s important for people of all ages and abilities to be as active as possible—no gym membership required.

Screen time: How much is too much?

Screens are everywhere these days. From apps and video games to TV, video conferences, and online classes, screen time adds up. More than ever, we connect to the outside world through screens. As a result, managing screen use—for children and adults—can be a challenge. Too much screen time can increase the risk of obesity, interfere with sleep, and prevent the development of healthy relationships. That’s why it’s important to find a healthy balance between screen time and offline time away from the digital world.

9 tips for better sleep: What to do when insomnia keeps you up at night

,

Good quality sleep plays an important role in your physical and mental health. It also boosts your immune system and promotes emotional wellness by giving your mind time to rest and recharge. Stress and anxiety can make it more difficult to get a good night’s sleep. If you already suffer from insomnia, experiencing stressful situations can make it worse. At the same time, lack of sleep can make you feel anxious and tense. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help you get the sleep you need.