BEAT THE WINTER BLUES: 5 Things You Can Do Right Now
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons, usually starting in the fall and lasting through the winter months. It can sap your energy and make you feel moody.
These five strategies can help you combat SAD and keep your spirits up all winter long:
- Spend time outside every day, even when it's cloudy.
- Eat a well-balanced diet and resist sugar and carb cravings.
- Exercise for 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week.
- Stay involved with your social circle and regular activities.
- Use a light box for 15-30 minutes every morning.
If you feel down for days at a time and you can't get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, talk to a doctor or mental health professional. You don’t have to suffer through it … there are many effective treatments that can help you feel better.
- Kaiser Permanente: 8 Ways to Cope with the Winter Blues
- Providence: Parting the Clouds of Winter Depression
- Regence: Explore Behavioral Health Resources
MAKE 2021 YOUR YEAR: Be Happy and Healthy
Lots of people set New Year’s resolutions … but only 20% have the resolve to stick with them beyond February. Make your resolutions realistic, then you’ll have a greater chance of incorporating healthy habits into your everyday life. Try these strategies:
- Start small. Set goals you actually believe are within your reach.
- Change one behavior at a time. Focus on one resolution, not five!
- Get a buddy. Find a friend who has a similar goal and support each other.
- Don’t beat yourself up. Resolve to recover from mistakes and get back on track.
- Get support. Your Health Plan has all kinds of resources to help. See our infographic for details.
More ways to make 2021 your year:
- Vision: Give your eyes some love by reducing digital eye strain. KP Members | VSP Members
- Dental: Keep smiling and get checkups to detect serious health issues. KP Members | Delta Dental Members
- Prescriptions: Save money by switching from brand-names to generics. KP Members | Express-Scripts Members
- Life and AD&D: Enjoy financial protection and peace of mind with coverage through The Standard (Active members).
IT’S A NEW PLAN YEAR: Make the Most of It
Any changes you made during last fall’s Open Enrollment are now in effect. Get the most from your benefits by taking a few steps to set yourself up for success:
- Register on your Carrier’s websites. Then you can log in any time to see your benefits, view your claims, find in-network providers, print your plan ID card, and take advantage of valuable discounts and free programs. Here’s how.
- Go to sdtrust.com, click Menu, then Health Benefits (under My Benefits).
- Choose your bargaining group and status, then click GO!
- Click the links to your carrier’s websites and follow the directions.
- Newly enrolled for the first time this year? See our infographic to learn how to help make sure your claims are paid on time.
- Questions? Watch this video to learn how to QUICKLY get answers for all kinds of benefit questions.