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In the wake of November’s observation of National Military Family Month, it is important to remember that keeping families balanced and healthy is essential.
Today, the spread of COVID-19 and ongoing life changes have made health and balance a priority, especially when it comes to family. Home has become an office, a classroom, doctor’s office, and a space for entertainment. It can become stressful to manage when work and family life overlap. At this time, it is more important than ever to engage in practices that prioritize your family’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
The following are tips to keep your family’s health and happiness first while at home.
- Stay active together and get outside.
Staying active, for both kids and adults, is great for physical health, and it can also help fight stress and anxiety that may arise as your family deals with a loss of daily routine.
- Drink enough water.
It is important to stay hydrated for proper body functioning. Water also has a significant impact on your energy levels, brain function, and general health. It is recommended to drink four to six cups of water daily.
- Encourage everyone to eat a well-balanced diet.
Yes, it can be harder to make healthy food choices due to limited grocery trips. But, try to take advantage of frozen fruits and veggies. They provide the same nutritional value, and will last longer. Also, it is beneficial to put in place a normal eating schedule of three balanced meals each day.
- Take time to build community.
Social isolation is overwhelming. Now is the time to strengthen your family unit by being intentional with your time together. In addition, take advantage of technology to connect with extended family.
- Follow a bedtime routine and get enough sleep.
Sleep is important. However, getting enough sleep is key to having enough energy and being able to concentrate throughout the day. A regular bedtime routine can help you get to bed earlier and fall asleep faster.
- Talk about your feelings.
Uncertainty and change generates more worry, grief, and anxiety than usual. Talk with your family about how they’re feeling, and acknowledge that what they’re feeling is normal.
- Practice preventative maintenance, like regular handwashing.
Hand hygiene is always one of the best ways to minimize the spread of germs and prevent illness.
Making sure your family is healthy and happy is extremely important, especially during these unprecedented times. We want to be there for you when it matters most. Let us take care of your family’s health and wellness, so you’ll be prepared for life’s most important moments.
USFHP provides behavioral health benefits with access to individual, group, and family counseling for specific problems. Also, USFHP families have the option to enjoy our enhanced benefits of low-cost eyeglasses, preventive dental services, or gym membership reimbursements.
USFHP’s Open Season currently runs through Monday, December 13, 2021. Enroll today!
Visit usfhp.net or call 1-800-241-4848 for help finding what plan best works for you and your family.