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

From the Chief Health Officer's Desk

This is always a notoriously busy time of year. Please remember to take advantage of tools and resources to help keep you well. Familiarize yourself with Mental Health Counseling and Consultation Services for faculty and staff. Be sure to get your updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines if you haven’t already (two more campus clinics are scheduled this term; you can also visit your primary care provider or a retail pharmacy).

And even if it’s chilly I recommend that you still find time to go outside. A brief visit outdoors can immediately improve your well-being – you just might need a few extra layers. I recently had the privilege of speaking at U-M’s first-ever Nature Rx symposium and was inspired and energized by our community’s commitment to harnessing wellness in nature. Check out the Nature Rx app to explore natural areas on and near campus.

Lastly, U-M's United Way Campaign is underway with a goal of raising $1 million to address pressing needs in Washtenaw County and beyond. Select the "Give Now" link on this page to use the secure ePledge system on Wolverine Access.

Cut Back or Abstain from Alcohol this Season

The holiday season is right around the corner. For some, it's a time for celebrating with loved ones. For others, it may be a cause for stress or anxiety. In both cases, alcohol could play a role.

If you want to cut back or abstain from alcohol, sign up to get weekly emails from the MHealthy Alcohol Management Program. "Holiday Stop and Swap" emails include tips, resources and a swap challenge encouraging a positive change. Emails arrive every Monday through Jan. 6. Register by Dec. 13.

Be a Quitter – the Great American Smokeout is Nov. 21

Quitting tobacco is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Tobacco harms nearly every organ of the body and is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the U.S.

The Great American Smokeout is Nov. 21, a day when thousands start their journey. MHealthy Tobacco Consultation Service is here to help. Resources are available if you are thinking about quitting or are ready to quit. You can also test your tobacco I.Q. and enter to win a $25 gift card!

'Tis the Season for Kindness, Connection and Care

Kindness, gratitude and compassion can help warm your workplace by enhancing trust, creativity and collaboration. Stronger relationships can foster joy and lift your sense of well-being.

Check out Be Kind Be Well and the Positive Connections program for resources to support meaningful interactions. Looking for additional care? Learn more about mental and emotional health support options to help you navigate stress and build resources.

Apply for a Grant to Solve Ergonomic Issues

Is manually lifting equipment causing awkward movement? Is repeating the same motions for long periods of time causing discomfort? There may be a more ergonomic way to work.

Departments and units that want to solve ergonomic issues can apply for a grant through the MHealthy Ergonomics Awareness Program. Any employee can apply on behalf of their area. Grants are awarded up to $5,000 to help purchase equipment or redesign work processes. Apply by Dec. 31.

Money Matters Virtual Workshop: Finish the Year Strong, Nov. 20

When it comes to our personal finances, sometimes change is needed so we can reach our goals, build wealth and prepare for retirement.

Register now for the Nov. 20 "Money Matters: Finish the Year Strong" virtual workshop. You'll get actionable tips for finishing out 2024 strong and building a solid foundation for a successful 2025. Presented by MHealthy and the U-M Credit Union.

Connecting the Dots Recordings Now Available

Recordings of five presentations from this year's Connecting the Dots conference are now available.

Learn about the benefits of intuitive eating. Get a new perspective on managing your career. Cultivate mindful self-compassion and gratitude. Empower your family with healthy habits. And learn how your Social Security benefits work when you retire!

Holiday Webinars: Intuitive Eating, Nov. 21 & Joyful Movement, Dec. 11

For many of us, the holiday season is a time to celebrate. It can also become a challenge to maintain our well-being goals. Discover how intuitive eating and joyful movement can transform your relationship with food and your body this holiday season, and beyond. Sign up for one or both webinars.

December Virtual Cooking Classes, Dec. 4 & Dec. 11

Attend December’s cooking classes and learn to prepare a variety of appetizers and starters that are sure to impress your family and guests. Then wow them with creatively delicious sweet treats. You'll also get tips for saving time and cutting costs. Register for one or both classes.

Winter Markets at NCRC, Nov. 19 & Dec. 3

Stop by the Winter Markets at NCRC, Nov. 19 and Dec. 3, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. These multi-vendor markets celebrate locally-made, locally-produced foods and products. Look for fresh produce, sweet treats, made-from-scratch pastas and spreads, hand-crafted goods and gifts, and more.

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.