National Women’s Health Week

05/12/22

Prioritizing your health – both physical and mental – has never been more important. Over the past few years, many women have put off taking care of their general health and wellness needs. They have adjusted their daily routines, including the way they connect with family and friends. This combination has led to serious health problems for some women.

During National Women’s Health Week, we encourage all women to make the choices that are right for them. Healthy women have more energy to get through the day and approach life with more hope and optimism. They are less stressed and experience lower levels of anxiety.

National Women’s Health Week  also encourages women to consider the factors that influence their mental health, such as managing stress, in order to ward off anxiety and depression.

Here are a few ideas about how you can become healthier:

• Get moving and stay active. Being physically active is one of the most important activities you can take at any age to improve your health. Break your activity into small sessions and include both cardiovascular and weightlifting to provide balance for muscle groups. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting or changing your physical activity.
• Eat well-balanced meals and snacks. Heart-healthy eating involves choosing certain foods, such as fruits and vegetables, while limiting others, such as saturated and trans fats and added sugars.
• Ensure the right vitamins are in your diet. Vitamin D and calcium are vital nutrients your body needs for building and maintaining healthy bones. The body can only absorb calcium when vitamin D is present.
• Practice self-care for your mental health. Some ideas include staying connected with family and friends, connecting with your community-or faith-based organizations, and taking time to unwind and focus on activities you enjoy.
• Create good sleep habits. About 1 in 3 adults do not regularly get the recommended amount of sleep they need to protect their health. Sleep deficiency can lead to physical and mental health problems, including heart disease and depression, as well as injuries, loss of productivity, and even a greater likelihood of death.
• Minimize alcohol consumption and avoid other habits that can impair your health. Monitor alcohol intake and avoid illicit drugs, including drugs that are not prescribed to you. If you can, quit smoking and vaping.
• Continue to take steps to protect yourself from COVID by social distancing, wearing masks, and getting your COVID vaccine.

CCMH is proud to support good health in women this week and every other week of the year. If you think you might benefit from seeing a medical professional, please contact the CCMH Medical Clinic at 712-265-2700.