The time is right for women to prioritize their own health

This week we celebrate National Women’s Health Week – the perfect time to take a moment to consider how we might strengthen our health with an extra dose of self-care. 

Many women act as the managers of their family’s health-maintaining records, scheduling visits, caring for sick loved ones, and taking their children to appointments at the recommended times. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two out of every three caregivers in the United States are women who provide daily or regular support to children, adults, or people with chronic illnesses or disabilities. 

That compassion can come with a cost: Women who are caregivers have a greater risk for poor physical and mental health. Preventive care can keep disease away or detect problems early so that treatment is more effective. 

Here are some things women can do to improve their health:

• Get regular check-ups.  Find out what screenings and exams you need and schedule them. If something doesn’t feel right, ask your doctor about it.  If you put off scheduling your annual well-woman exam over the past two years, now is the time to get it done!
• Be active. All movement is better than no movement! All types of activity, including walking, swimming, and even gardening count. Worried you need equipment to be active? You can use items you have around the house, such as full water bottles, canned goods, or other items for strength training. You can stretch with a towel or walk up and down steps. 
• Nourish your body with a variety of foods. These could include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk and other dairy products, and lean proteins. You can make food choices that honor your health and taste buds. 
• Take your vitamins, it’s important for women to take folic acid every day so their body can make healthy new cells daily. At PowerMeA2Z.org, women can learn more and receive free vitamins with folic acid.
• Keep your mind and body healthy by getting enough sleep. 
• Focus on your mental health and find resources if needed, know that it is ok to ask for help. If you or a loved one is in urgent need of free, confidential mental health support, please call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
• Be aware and get to Know the Signs of maternal mental health conditions to be concerned about. These conditions can occur in parents of every age, race, culture, and income level.
• Take the time to unwind and connect with others facing challenges like the ones you’re dealing with.  Or, find a new fun activity to do and share with others.
• Don’t be afraid to seek support from your friends, family or partner.  Ask others to help share caregiving responsibilities. 
• Be kind to yourself.  We’ve all been through a lot the past few years.  Treating yourself with compassion and gentleness can go a long way.     

Taking care of ourselves is a must-do to build our resilience and embrace our health.  I hope you’ll join in the celebration of National Women’s Health Week by doing something good for yourself.