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

From the Chief Health Officer's Desk

Somehow we are already approaching the last few weeks of the fall semester with the holidays just ahead. As always, this edition of MHealthy Living includes many excellent well-being resources and programs (outlined below). I hope you will take advantage of these.

I especially want to highlight opportunities for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. These vaccines are safe, effective and updated to target anticipated strains for the respiratory season.

Importantly, the state of Michigan has issued a standing recommendation for COVID-19 vaccines. If you have not received the 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine, you may consider yourself high risk when answering screening questions. Not being up to date on your vaccine protections is considered a risk factor for severe disease. Vaccines can be obtained from community clinics, health departments, pharmacies and of course your primary care physician. Every shot offers you and your community greater protection against severe illness.

Cut Back or Abstain from Alcohol this Season

For some, the holiday season is 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're thinking about cutting back or abstaining from alcohol, sign up to get weekly "Holiday Stop and Swap" emails from the MHealthy Alcohol Management Program. From Nov. 17 – Jan. 5, you'll receive tips, resources and a swap challenge encouraging a positive change.

Be a Quitter – the Great American Smokeout is Nov. 20

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. 20, a day when thousands start their tobacco-free journey. MHealthy Tobacco Consultation Service is here to help. Resources, including workshops, counseling, quit kits and more, are available if you are thinking about quitting or are ready to quit.

WITH GRATITUDE: THANK YOU MHEALTHY CHAMPIONS!

World Kindness Day is Nov. 13, the perfect opportunity to recognize those who make our university community better. At MHealthy, we are especially grateful for our network of over 500 MHealthy Champions. Their dedication helps to foster a culture of health, connect colleagues and support well-being across the university.

We invite you to check out this special video, where U-M and MHealthy leadership express their gratitude and celebrate the meaningful impact Champions have on our university community's well-being.

Year-End Financial Well-Being Town Hall, Dec. 4

Finish 2025 strong and start planning for 2026! Join this fast-paced, interactive session where financial experts will recap major financial events from the year and offer practical insights to help you plan ahead with confidence.

It's your chance to get answers directly from financial experts. Presented by MHealthy and the U-M Credit Union.

Fall Back to Sound Sleep

Daylight Saving Time ended on Nov. 2 and we gained one hour. Sounds good right? Not always. Even this small shift can affect your sleep cycle, disrupting your rest for several days.

Resources are available to help you adjust to the time change and practice better sleep habits. You can also take the updated sleep awareness I.Q. challenge.

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 spending time in nature. Sharpen your financial literacy. Discover resources for the "sandwich generation." See how sleep can help you thrive. And get a new perspective on thriving in your post-career stage of life.

We're Here for You: Mental and Emotional Support

You have access to confidential, no-cost, short-term counseling services. Reach out to the Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office (FASCCO) at 734-936-8660 or via email at fascco@umich.edu. Plus, every health plan offered by U-M provides coverage for mental health care.

Joyful Movement During the Holidays, Dec. 3

For many of us, the holiday season is a time to celebrate. It may also challenge us to maintain our well-being goals or keep up with healthy habits. At the Dec. 3 webinar, you'll discover how joyful movement can transform your relationship with your body this holiday season, and beyond.

Munchies and Mocktails Virtual Cooking Class, Dec. 10

Shake or stir up your snack and beverage game with refreshing zero-proof, alcohol-free drinks and easy bites! These simple munchies and beverages are perfect for parties or a feel-good night in. Registration opens Nov. 18 – sign up to be notified when registration opens.

Thinking About Quitting Tobacco Virtual Workshop, Dec. 17

If you're thinking about quitting but aren't sure how to start, register for this 30-minute virtual workshop from the Tobacco Consultation Service on Dec. 17. You'll meet a tobacco treatment specialist and learn about tools and resources available when you are ready to take the first step.

Nourish Your Whole Self

A growing body of research supports shifting the focus away from dieting and weight loss towards a more thoughtful approach. Nourish Your Whole Self is a free 12-week program based on the concept of intuitive eating. MHealthy coaches offer guidance on eating mindfully, being kind to yourself and being thankful for your body.

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.