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

From the Chief Health Officer's Desk

As we approach the middle of summer, I hope you have been able to enjoy some beautiful sunny days. However, we have at times experienced extreme temperatures. While you have likely read about safe behaviors during heat waves, the advice bears repeating, especially as we reach the hottest time of year.

Tips to beat the heat:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Stay indoors and in air-conditioned spaces when possible.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
• Protect your skin, even if you are outside for only a short time.
• Know the signs of heat-related illnesses.
• Air quality is often negatively affected by heat waves. Monitor the air quality index where you live and take extra precautions if you are sensitive to air pollution.

Additional resources:

• Hot weather safety tips from Washtenaw County Health Department
• Heat illness prevention information from OSHA
• Extreme Heat and Your Health from the CDC
• U-M's Department of Environment, Health & Safety is also available for consultation if you need more information on implementing a heat stress program

Become an MHealthy Champion

Are you interested in health and well-being? Do you like to support others? Would you like to help tailor activities to fit your coworkers' needs?

If so, apply to become an MHealthy Champion for your department, unit or area! You can help to tailor health and wellness activities that fit your area's needs, create a culture of well-being and foster connection within your unit or department. Apply by July 31.

Eat More Fruits and Veggies in Six Weeks!

Fruits and vegetables have vital nutrients that support your health and help to reduce your risk of some chronic diseases. Join the six-week Fruit and Veggie Challenge and have fun filling up on nature's best. There's no calorie counting, weighing or measuring!

Open to active benefits-eligible faculty and staff and their U-M health plan enrolled spouse/OQA. The challenge starts July 8. Register by July 15.

Test Your Summer Alcohol I.Q., Enter to Win $25

Myth or fact: Alcohol helps people manage social situations more easily.

Get the answer to this and more by taking the updated Summer Alcohol I.Q. Challenge – you might be surprised by what you learn! It's only five questions and U-M faculty and staff can enter a drawing for a chance to win one of five $25 Amazon gift cards. Enter by July 31.

New Freedom From Smoking® Virtual Group Starts July 24

Quitting tobacco isn't easy—but it's easier with the right help.

Join Freedom From Smoking, a free, seven-week virtual group program from the American Lung Association and Tobacco Consultation Service. A new session starts on July 24 from 12 – 1:30 p.m. You'll get options, resources and support to quit tobacco for good.

Embrace Nature for Mental Restoration

If you want to lower your stress, elevate your mood and quiet negative self-talk, try immersing yourself in nature. Whether you like to garden, explore a forest, or simply sit in a park, spending time outside is an easy way to feel better.

This article highlights the benefits of making time for the great outdoors and resources to help you relax and recharge in nature.

Supporting Kids Coping with Grief and Loss

When a child faces the heavy weight of grief, the world can seem a bleak place. It's a profound challenge for both kids and the adults who love them. Christine Snyder, Director of Child and Family Care, shares five tips for providing support in this article.

MHealthy Portal Now Displays Preferred Names

Benefits-eligible faculty and staff who have set a preferred name through Wolverine Access will now see it displayed on the MHealthy Portal. This update impacts those who prefer to use a name that is different from their legal name.

Refer to the U-M Preferred Names Policy for more information and to learn how to enter, update, and/or delete your preferred name.

Nourish Your Whole Self

Create healthier relationships with food and your body with Nourish Your Whole Self, a free 12-week program that 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. Space is limited. Register by July 25.

July's Free Virtual Cooking Classes

Registration is now open for July cooking classes. Classes are free and will focus on creating simple yet delicious main courses using chicken and fish. You'll also get tips for saving time and cutting costs. Register for one or both classes. You can also sign up to be notified when registration opens for future classes.

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.