More than a year of stress and hardship surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic has weighed on everyone around the globe. Now that we in the United States are fortunate enough to have ready access to COVID-19 vaccinations for those 12 and older, and the pandemic appears to be heading toward remission, it’s time to take a moment and refocus on our overall health.
As the Chief Medical Officer at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, I would like to give you a few recommendations that can help you make a major improvement in your physical and mental wellbeing.
1) Get Vaccinated
I got a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as I was able to. It is the best way to protect your health, the health of your loved ones, and help curb the pandemic that has brought people around the world to their knees. It’s also a safe and effective way to save lives, and help us all get back to the people and activities we love.
2) Get an Annual Exam
Did you know that Planned Parenthood offers yearly evaluation and screening visits? These visits may include STI testing, cervical cancer screening, and breast cancer screening. We refer people to their primary care provider for any other health concerns that arise.
3) Get Moving
For the last year, we’ve all had a forced sedentary lifestyle because we’ve been confined to our homes. I’m not saying, you have to go and buy a Peloton (unless you want one!). Get some exercise, get outside, and breathe some fresh air. It’s good for your mental health, and it’s good for your body too!
4) Get Some Human Interaction
Even if you have to connect virtually, reach out to friends, family, and other social groups. Humans are social creatures—even self-proclaimed introverts. Connecting with people is really healthy.
5) Unplug
Take time off work if you can and use your PTO. Turn off the computer, put your phone away, and invest some time in activities that are meaningful to you; it’s not selfish to take time for yourself. What do you need to feel energized and refreshed? For me that’s calling my best friend or binge watching Game of Thrones with my husband. Everyone has a different refresh button, and it is important to find what that is for yourself! Many parents worry about kids and their screen time; I worry about adults and our screen time. When we have to buy blue tinted glasses to protect our eyes from screen glare, we may be overdoing it!
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