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

From the Chief Health Officer's Desk

May is definitely one of my favorite months. It is an exciting time of transition from spring into summer, and for many it is a time of major celebrations. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month. In addition to the outstanding mental health resources offered by University Human Resources, there are also webinars and other events offered through the Michigan Medicine Department of Psychiatry that cover topics such as maternal mental health, how to identify youth who are struggling and research breakthroughs on bipolar disorder.

Unfortunately nicer weather also means tick season is upon us. Some ticks spread diseases like Lyme disease, which has been on the rise in Michigan in recent years. You should perform tick checks after spending time in grassy or wooded areas and take action if you find a tick on you or your pet.

Find Your Path for Supporting Your Mental Health

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this May you're invited to explore the many resources to support your mind and mood – from confidential online screenings and professional counseling at no charge to webinars and special events.

Check-in with yourself with a confidential screening. Register for the "Strategies for Mindset Reset in Uncertain Times" webinar. Attend a "Breath of Fresh Air" event.

World No Tobacco Day, May 31

If you use tobacco, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. May 31 is World No Tobacco Day, which raises awareness about the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes.

If you are thinking about quitting, free counseling through the MHealthy Tobacco Consultation Service, tobacco cessation medications at zero copay for eligible U-M drug plan members and more resources are available to you anytime.

Strategies for Mindset Reset in Uncertain Times Webinar

Explore strategies for managing stress, navigating uncertainty and change and using a variety of evidence-informed coping skills at the May 28 free webinar, "Strategies for Mindset Reset in Uncertain Times."

Presenters include Dr. Jodie Eckleberry-Hunt, Program Manager for Workplace Resilience and Well-Being, OCWR, and Dr. Alexander Jendrusina, Faculty and Staff Counselor, FASCCO.

Take a Pause for Well-being at Nichols Arboretum, June 3

Drop in at the Arb to experience "Take a Pause for Well-being," a relaxed, morning open house event. The June 3 event features mindful movement, a guided "A Breath of Fresh Air" nature experience and breakfast during the peak of the Peony Garden bloom.

Presented by Matthai Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum in partnership with MHealthy, MDining, Nature Rx, Experience Rx and Movement Rx.

Grow, Wander, Bloom: Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum in May

Celebrate the connection between nature and mental well-being this May at Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. Shop four unique plant sales for all your garden needs. Join the May 20 "Wonder Walk: Rooted in Nature" to learn how taking time in nature can support mental health. Then in late May, wrap up the month by catching the peonies in bloom!

May is Employee Health and Fitness Month

Nationally recognized in May, Employee Health and Fitness Month celebrates the benefits of health and well-being in the workplace. U-M offers a variety of programs and resources to support your body, mind and mood.

This article highlights simple ways to take care of yourself in May and beyond.

Check and Protect the Skin You're In

More skin cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year than all other cancers combined. However, when found and treated early, skin cancer can almost always be cured. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a good reminder to practice skin safety.

Before heading outside to enjoy the warmer weather, check out these tips and resources to protect your skin and check for early signs of cancer.

In-person Physical Activity Classes

MHealthy's spring/summer in-person physical activity classes start this week! Sign up for strength training, Zumba, yoga and more. MHealthy classes are available at five campus locations. The cost is $50–$100 for 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Classes are also available through Michigan Recreation and Kinesiology Community Programs.

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.

Nourished Mindset Intuitive Eating Webinar, June 2

Mark your calendar for the June 2 webinar "Listening to Your Body and Tuning into Hunger and Fullness Cues." You'll learn how to recognize biological hunger, explore factors affecting feelings of fullness, and get practical steps for mindful eating. Registration opens May 12.

Free Virtual Cooking Classes in June

Attend MHealthy's June 10 and June 24 cooking classes and celebrate summer flavor in a bowl and beyond! You'll create warm-weather soups and explore how fresh herbs can brighten, boost and elevate everyday dishes. You'll also get tips for saving time and cutting costs. Registration opens May 26 – sign up to be notified.

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.