Welcome to MHealthy Living!
Supporting U-M faculty and staff's health and well-being

From the Chief Health Officer's Desk

As the fall semester begins and we welcome students back to campus, we also are quickly approaching flu season. Make sure you get your annual flu vaccination: this is one of the most important ways to enhance your protection against influenza.

Two drop-in flu vaccine clinics are being offered in October. Most health insurance plans cover flu vaccinations. If you do not have this coverage, the out-of-pocket cost is $44. You can also get your flu shot from your primary care physician or your local pharmacy.

An updated COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be approved by the CDC in the next several weeks. We hope to have it available at the flu vaccine clinics as timing allows. In the meantime, keep a supply of rapid antigen tests and masks, stay home if you are sick, and follow other CDC preventive action recommendations.

Our preparations now will help ensure a healthy, safe and strong semester ahead.

Hunger Action Month

Having access to nutritious food is critical to practicing healthy behaviors and thriving at work and home. It's Hunger Action Month, a time to act against hunger and food insecurity.

In support, resources are available if you want to learn more, need support or want to help. You can also take this five-question quiz to raise your awareness. Faculty and staff who complete the quiz by Sept. 30 can enter a drawing for a chance to win a $25 grocery gift card.

It's Time for Active U Autumn!

Have fun and get moving with the entire U-M community! Register for Active U Autumn, MHealthy's eight-week physical activity challenge. Choose to join a team or go it on your own. Then on Sept. 18, start logging your minutes online or by syncing your device.

You'll get weekly emails for extra motivation and can enter Swag Squad drawings for a chance to win a $25 gift card. Every fitness and ability level is encouraged to join. Sign up by Oct. 2.

Go Blue, Beat the Flu!

Drop-in flu shot clinics are scheduled at U-M Dearborn on Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., and Oct. 30 from 12 – 5 p.m. Both take place at the University Center, Kochoff Hall, 4901 Evergreen Rd.

Faculty and staff (as well as spouses/OQAs, dependents and retirees) can also get a flu vaccination at their doctor's office, local clinic or network immunizing pharmacy. Learn more about coverage through U-M's health plans.

Freedom From Smoking®

Quitting tobacco isn't easy—but it's easier with the right help. Tobacco Consultation Service has partnered with the American Lung Association to offer the Freedom From Smoking program. You'll get options, resources and support to quit tobacco for good.

A free, eight-week virtual session starts on Wednesday, September 13 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. Learn more and register. To get the full experience, you must register before the first session.

How Nutrient Dense is Your Food?

Foods that are nutrient dense include more fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains and fiber. They also have less saturated fats, added sugars and sodium.

To help you make more informed food choices, MHealthy and its university partners have created a new labeling system. Look for this colorful five-sliced citrus circle at UM-Dearborn vending machines and eateries. The more slices filled, the more nutrient dense the food!

How Are You Feeling? Try a Simple Daily Check-in

As you navigate life's ups and downs, pay attention to your thoughts and feelings, your energy level, and your overall mood each day. Just starting your day by asking yourself, "How am I doing today?" gives you a moment to pause and reflect on how you might care for yourself or others. If you'd like to dig a little deeper, try an online mental and emotional health screening.

Virtual Be Well Sessions, Sept. 18-20

Join in MHealthy's "Be Well" sessions, Sept. 18-20! Register for any or all of these free webinars: Mental Health Hygiene 101 (Sept. 18 at 2 p.m.), Three-Bean Chili – Three, Four and More Ways Chef Demo (Sept. 19 at 12 p.m.), and the Journey to Financial Wellness: Here’s Your Roadmap (Sept. 20 at 11 a.m.).

Nourish Your Whole Self

Based on the concept of intuitive eating, this free 12-week program helps you tune into yourself to make choices that support you feeling nourished. MHealthy coaches offer guidance on eating mindfully, being kind to yourself and being thankful for your body. Register now for September sessions. Space is limited.

To help you be your best at work and at home, MHealthy supports U-M's philosophy that many factors impact your personal well-being.