Understanding Mental Health Benefits of Being Outdoors
Spring is in the air. As temperatures climb and the days grow longer, you may have ample opportunities to improve your mental health. Fittingly, April is Stress Awareness Month.
Whether you’ve been suffering from seasonal affective disorder, operating under stress or simply feeling cooped up, taking advantage of the outdoors can be enjoyable and healthy.
The Relationship Between Nature and Wellness
When you think of being outdoors, your mind may immediately jump to a vast forest or sprawling national park, but even a short walk through a crowded city can be beneficial.
Studies have shown that spending time outside can help you focus and problem-solve, potentially providing your mind with a much-needed kickstart. If possible, try to visit green spaces often. Research has shown that these areas can help decrease anxiety.
Being outside also often inherently involves physical activity. Even casual walks can benefit your overall health, which can directly and positively impact your mental well-being and may even improve your sleep patterns.
Contact us today for more mental health resources.
Celebrate Alcohol Awareness Month by Reducing Intake
April is Alcohol Awareness Month. This annual campaign is intended to help educate the public about the dangers of alcoholism and overindulging.
If you’re looking to cut down on your drinking, consider the following tips:
- Remove alcohol from your home, limiting drinking to specific occasions.
- Tell others you plan to drink less and ask them to help hold you accountable.
- Avoid activities, people and places you may associate with drinking.
- Set nightly or weekly limits.
Celebrate Oral Cancer Awareness Month With These Prevention Tips
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 58,500 people in the United States will be diagnosed with this affliction at some point this year—about 132 new diagnoses every day.
April is recognized as Oral Cancer Awareness Month in recognition of those battling this disease. This annual initiative focuses on raising awareness about oral cancer, encouraging people to seek regular examinations and providing guidance for limiting risk.
Key Steps for Preventing Oral Cancer
- Avoid tobacco: Smoking and using tobacco products can significantly raise your cancer risk. Quitting and avoiding secondhand smoke is advised.
- Limit drinking: Alcohol can make your body more vulnerable to carcinogens. Those who both smoke and drink may face elevated risks.
- Visit your dentist: Regular dental checkups can detect early signs of oral cancer, especially in those with conditions like periodontal disease.
Click here to learn more about Oral Cancer Awareness Month, or contact us today for additional health and wellness resources.
What You Need to Know About Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Opioids and other medications can wreak havoc on individuals, families and communities when misused. Many of these drugs serve important medical purposes but carry a high risk for abuse and addiction.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has designated April 26, 2025 as National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This campaign promotes the safe, convenient and responsible disposal of prescription drugs while raising awareness about the dangers of medication misuse.
Failing to properly dispose of unused medicine can lead to misuse and long-term consequences.
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.