Author Archive

Lantern (Formerly SurgeryPlus)

Lynn White 2025 October, Benefit Spotlight August 12, 2025

Lantern is a benefit program offered by some employers to help employees and their families access high-quality, non-emergency surgeries.

Think of it like a concierge service for surgery — handling everything from finding a top-rated doctor to coordinating your travel (if needed). Lantern covers over 1,500 planned surgical procedures, including those in categories like spine, general surgery, orthopedic, ear, nose, and throat, cardiac, gastrointestinal, and injections.

The program partners with a nationwide network of carefully selected surgeons and facilities that meet strict quality and safety standards. And here’s the best part: when you use Lantern, your costs could be dramatically reduced — or even eliminated completely depending on your employer’s plan. This isn’t just a different way to schedule surgery. It’s a better, smarter, more supportive experience from start to finish.

Benefits

  • Lower (or No) Out-of-Pocket Costs – One of the biggest perks of Lantern is the cost savings. When you use the program, you may pay little to nothing out of pocket. That means no surprise bills later, and no guessing what your surgery is going to cost. Everything is explained upfront, so you can focus on healing.
  • Access to High-Quality Surgeons – Lantern doesn’t just partner with any providers. Every surgeon in the network has been vetted for training, experience, and outcomes. So instead of sorting through hundreds of options on your own, you’re matched with a specialist who’s proven to deliver great care.
  • Full-Service Support – From the first phone call to your post-surgery check-up, Lantern is with you every step of the way. You’ll be assigned a Care Advocate who will schedule appointments, help with paperwork, and even assist with travel arrangements if the best provider isn’t local. It’s like having a personal assistant just for your surgery.

How to Use Lantern

Getting started with Lantern is easy, and your HR team or benefits provider can confirm if it’s part of your plan. Once you’re enrolled, just follow these steps:

  1. Call the Lantern Member Services Line: You’ll speak with a friendly Care Advocate who will walk you through the process and ask a few questions about your needs.
  2. Get Matched With a Top Surgeon: Based on your procedure and location, you’ll be paired with a high-quality provider. If travel is required, they’ll help you plan that too — and in most cases, those travel costs are covered!
  3. Schedule and Prepare: Your Care Advocate will coordinate everything, from the consultation to surgery day and follow-up appointments. You’ll know what to expect every step of the way.

If you or a family member has a planned surgery coming up, check with your HR department or benefits provider to see if Lantern is available to you.

Hysterectomy and Bone Health

Lynn White 2025 October, Lifestyle and Wellness August 11, 2025

Hysterectomy continues to be one of the most common surgical procedures among women in the United States, with over 600,000 operations performed each year.

Estrogen drop accelerates bone breakdown and slows bone formation, making postmenopausal women especially vulnerable to osteoporosis.

As of 2021, approximately 14.6% of women aged 18 and older had undergone a hysterectomy. The prevalence rises significantly with age, exceeding 40% among women aged 75 and older. While the procedure can offer essential relief from various gynecological conditions, understanding its long-term impact — particularly on bone health — is crucial.

When the ovaries are removed during a hysterectomy (a procedure known as oophorectomy), estrogen levels plummet, triggering early menopause. Even if the ovaries are left intact, changes in blood supply can still impair hormone production, subtly affecting bone strength over time. It is essential for women considering or recovering from a hysterectomy to be informed about these risks and to adopt strategies that promote strong, healthy bones.

Why Osteoporosis Occurs

Osteoporosis occurs more frequently in women due to biological and hormonal factors that influence bone density throughout life. Women naturally have smaller, thinner bones and lower peak bone mass compared to men, which means they start with less bone “in reserve” as they age. Estrogen, a hormone that plays a key role in maintaining bone strength, declines sharply during menopause. This hormonal drop accelerates bone breakdown and slows bone formation, making postmenopausal women especially vulnerable to osteoporosis. Additionally, women who experience early menopause or undergo oophorectomy face an even greater risk due to the sudden loss of estrogen.

Other contributing factors include lifestyle, genetics, and certain medical conditions. Women with a family history of osteoporosis, low calcium intake, or sedentary habits are more likely to develop the disease. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, eating disorders, and autoimmune diseases can also interfere with bone metabolism. Long-term use of medications like corticosteroids or certain cancer treatments may further weaken bones.

How to Strengthen Bone Health

After a hysterectomy — especially if it involved the removal of the ovaries — prioritizing bone health becomes essential. Here are several effective strategies for strengthening bones and maintaining skeletal health post-surgery:

  • Weight-bearing exercises – Activities like walking, dancing, stair climbing, and resistance training help stimulate bone growth and improve balance, reducing fracture risk.
  • Calcium and vitamin D – Aim for at least 1,200 mg of calcium daily and ensure adequate vitamin D through sunlight, diet, or supplements to support calcium absorption.
  • Healthy diet – Focus on leafy greens, dairy, legumes, and fortified foods. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can weaken bones.

Conclusion

A hysterectomy can be life-changing for women suffering from chronic gynecological issues such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal bleeding, or uterine prolapse. The procedure often results in significant relief, allowing women to regain control over their health and well-being. In cases involving cancer or increased risk of cancer, hysterectomy may be both preventive and lifesaving. Many women experience improved emotional and physical health following surgery.

While the benefits of hysterectomy can be substantial, it’s important to acknowledge and prepare for its long-term impacts on bone health. By incorporating regular exercise, a calcium-rich diet, vitamin D, and healthy lifestyle habits, women can build and maintain stronger bones. These proactive measures foster resilience, promote independence, and support quality of life well into the future.

By incorporating regular exercise, a calcium-rich diet, vitamin D, and healthy lifestyle habits, women can build and maintain stronger bones.

Drug Take Back Programs Save Lives

Lynn White 2025 October, Lifestyle and Wellness August 11, 2025

Since 1999, drug overdoses have claimed the lives of more than one million people in the United States.

Each year, approximately 100,000 individuals die due to drug overdoses, with opioids being the most commonly identified substance in these deaths. According to a survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, over half of the respondents who used opioids reported that they obtained the drugs from a friend or relative’s prescription. About 25% stated they received them from a healthcare provider, while less than 5% said they got them from a drug dealer or a stranger. These numbers highlight how accessible prescription opioids have become within households and social networks, contributing significantly to the national overdose crisis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that from 2019 to 2021, the median number of drug overdose deaths among children increased by a staggering 109%. Several contributing factors may be responsible for this rise, including unaddressed mental health issues, sudden life transitions, peer pressure, and a growing curiosity to experiment with substances. Alarmingly, some children under the age of 14 have been reported to accidentally consume medication after mistaking colorful pills for candy. In many cases, children gained access to prescription drugs due to leftover medication from surgeries or treatments, or because they found unsecured prescription bottles belonging to relatives. These unfortunate incidents stress the importance of proper medication storage and disposal within homes.

One of the most effective ways to reduce overdose risk is to ensure that unused or expired prescription drugs are disposed of responsibly. That is why prescription drug take-back programs are such a vital public health initiative. By giving individuals a safe and convenient way to discard medications, these programs help eliminate opportunities for misuse, theft, or accidental ingestion.

What Are Take Back Programs?

In 2010, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) launched the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a campaign aimed at clearing out expired or unwanted prescription drugs from homes across the country. The initiative involves setting up secure and accessible drop-off locations in communities, allowing people to safely dispose of medications that might otherwise pose a risk. These drop-off points are widely available and may include:

  • Kiosks at Pharmacies – Many major pharmacy chains, such as CVS and Walgreens, provide secure drop boxes. Most homes in the U.S. are located within five miles of a participating location.
  • Local Law Enforcement Agencies – Police departments often have permanent drug disposal kiosks available in their lobbies to assist the community year-round.
  • Mail-Back Envelopes – Some pharmacies, community organizations, and government agencies offer free pre-paid envelopes so individuals can safely mail their unwanted medications for proper disposal.

For those who do not have easy access to a take-back location, there are alternative home disposal methods that can reduce the risk of drug misuse:

  • Mix the medication with an unappealing substance such as used coffee grounds, cat litter, or dirt.
  • Remove pills from their original container and seal them in a different container, like a resealable plastic bag.
  • Use a permanent marker to obscure personal information and drug names on the label before discarding the packaging.

The Importance of Proper Disposal

It’s critical for households to regularly review and clear out expired or unused medications. Leaving prescription drugs in accessible places poses a significant risk to children, visitors, and family members. Disposing of medications improperly — like tossing them in the trash without precautions — can result in others retrieving them from garbage bins, potentially leading to harmful consequences. Additionally, improperly discarding prescription bottles without removing personal data can expose individuals to identity theft.

Take action today by tracking the medications in your home and locating the nearest drop-off site. You can call the DEA Diversion Control Division Registration Call Center at 800-882-9539 for more information about these drug take-back locations. By participating in take-back programs and spreading awareness about safe disposal, you’re playing a part in combating the overdose epidemic — one prescription at a time.

The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day campaign involves secure and accessible drop-off locations in communities, allowing people to safely dispose of medications that might otherwise pose a risk.

Supporting a Loved One Through Depression

Lynn White 2025 October, Lifestyle and Wellness August 11, 2025

Depression affects more than 280 million people globally and is a leading cause of emotional suffering.

In the United States alone, around 21 million individuals have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder. However, researchers believe this number is likely higher, as many people experiencing symptoms of depression may not seek professional help or receive a formal diagnosis. Depression is a common yet complex condition that can present in different ways depending on the individual. Recognizing its signs and understanding the treatment options available is essential for minimizing its impact. Without timely diagnosis and care, depression can contribute to the breakdown of relationships, loss of interest in once-loved activities, and, in the most tragic cases, suicide. Because of its prevalence and severity, it’s critical to know how to identify depression and support those around us who may be struggling.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Although grief and sadness after trauma or a significant loss are natural, these feelings usually lessen with time. When sadness lingers for more than two weeks and begins to disrupt daily life, it may indicate major depressive disorder. Symptoms may include ongoing fatigue, loss of interest in social activities, insomnia or excessive sleeping, changes in appetite, and persistent feelings of emptiness or hopelessness. However, different types of depression exhibit unique features.

  • Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) – This chronic form of depression is marked by a consistently low mood that lasts for at least two years. While the symptoms may not be as intense as those of major depression, their long-term nature can significantly affect work, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Common signs include low self-esteem, disrupted sleep, reduced energy, and difficulty concentrating. Many people with PDD believe their condition is simply part of their personality, which delays diagnosis and treatment.
  • Bipolar Disorder – This disorder involves cycles of emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Manic episodes may include increased energy, impulsivity, or irritability, while depressive episodes often bring sadness, fatigue, and disinterest in daily activities. These extreme mood swings can interfere with one’s ability to function and are typically treated with a combination of medication and therapy.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – SAD is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often worsening in fall and winter when daylight hours are shorter. Symptoms may include low energy, oversleeping, weight gain, and a depressed mood. In some cases, SAD appears during the spring or summer and presents with agitation, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Light therapy and counseling are common treatments.
  • Postpartum Depression (PPD) – PPD is a serious condition that affects individuals after childbirth, beyond the typical “baby blues.” It can develop during pregnancy or within the first year after delivery and often includes anxiety, mood swings, exhaustion, and feelings of detachment from the baby. Treatment can involve therapy, medication, and support groups, and recovery is possible with proper care.
  • Psychotic Depression – This severe form of depression includes psychosis — hallucinations or delusions — alongside depressive symptoms. These psychotic experiences often mirror the person’s emotional state and can be difficult to detect, as those affected may hide their thoughts. Treatment usually requires both antidepressants and antipsychotic medications, often delivered under close medical supervision.

Helping a Loved One Recover

Recovery from depression is possible, especially when treatment begins early. Most depressive disorders are managed successfully through a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Supporting someone through this journey requires empathy, patience, and education. Encouraging them to seek professional help, offering a listening ear, and avoiding judgment can foster a supportive environment. Often, the most powerful way to help is by simply being there, offering consistent care, understanding, and reassurance that they are not alone. Your support can be life changing.

Most depressive disorders are managed successfully through a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Biometric Screening

Lynn White 2025 June, Benefit Spotlight May 6, 2025

A biometric screening usually measures height, weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and waist circumference.

A biometric screening is a clinical test that measures various physical characteristics of the body, to determine an individual’s overall health. More importantly, the results of a biometric screening provide insights into potential health risks such as diabetes and heart disease. It is conducted by taking a blood sample, usually in the form of a finger prick.

Many employers use biometric screenings to assess their employees’ overall health. This allows them to implement personalized, helpful strategies into their wellness program to improve employee health.

Biometric screenings encourage individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices and urge them to participate in activities that promote good health. Our health is the most valuable asset we have and taking care of it should always be a top priority.

Home Safety 101: Must-Know Tips for Summer

Lynn White 2025 June, Lifestyle and Wellness May 6, 2025

As the summer heat intensifies, it’s crucial to ensure your home and family are safe.

Outdoor activities increase, pool days are frequent, and the air conditioning system is pumping as hard as it can to keep your home cool. Summertime opens the door to dangerous situations, and it’s important to be aware of them.

Keep Cool at Home

While there are no definitive statistics on how many air conditioning systems break each summer, industry experts have concluded that months with peak heat temperatures see the most AC unit breakdowns; they are overworked and overstressed, trying to keep spaces cool. Ensuring your air conditioner is in good condition and maintaining it regularly by cleaning or replacing filters can help improve its efficiency and keep your home cool. If you don’t have an air conditioner, you can use fans or open windows during cooler parts of the day.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a common issue during the summer. According to the National Health Institution, 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Imagine the increase in dehydration when adding in the summer heat.

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid beverages that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol and caffeine. Foods like watermelon, cucumber, celery, lettuce, and cantaloupe can also provide a boost of hydration due to the high levels of water in them.

Fighting Fire

The risk of fires increases in the summer months because of the high temperatures and dry weather conditions. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grilling causes 10,600 home fires each year, and between 2017 and 2021, most incidents occurred in the peak summer months of May, June, July, and August.

When using a grill, make sure to keep it at least 10 feet away from your home and anything flammable. Never leave it unattended, and make sure to keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby in case of an emergency. When not in use, keep gasoline and propane in well-ventilated areas and away from your home.

Poolside Safety

Pool use, especially by children, increases in the summer months. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children aged 1 to 4. It’s important to always supervise children to prevent an accident from happening. Utilize barriers such as fences, self-latching and self-locking gates, and pool covers to prevent unsupervised access to the pool. If an accident does occur, knowing how to do CPR could save a life. Consider taking a CPR course to learn how to do it, and always keep a first aid kit nearby. Find a local CPR class at www.redcross.org.

Safety First, Summer Second

By taking these home safety measures, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of the summer heat. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer.

According to SafeHome.org, between June and August 2023, nearly 200,000 children suffered injuries
from summertime activities and items such as pools, grills, camping equipment, and fishing poles.

Heat Dangers: Know the Signs

Lynn White 2025 June, Lifestyle and Wellness May 6, 2025

It’s a known fact that in most places, the summer months bring an intense wave of heat with them.

According to the Weather Channel, more than 2,300 deaths were connected to heat in 2023 in the United States, the highest number ever recorded.

While they are different, heat stroke and heat exhaustion are directly linked to high temperatures. Understanding the differences and dangers between the two can help keep you safe and prepared in case of an emergency.

What Is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt due to excessive sweating, typically caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures and heavy physical exertion.

 

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps
  • Headache
  • Pale, cool, and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse

If you are in a situation where you or someone else is experiencing heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, drink water or a sports drink, and rest. Seek medical help if symptoms don’t subside or worsen as heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke.

What Is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when the body fails to cool itself or regulate its temperature, causing the temperature to rise to dangerous levels, usually above 104°F. Heat stroke, like heat exhaustion, can occur during or after strenuous physical activity in the heat or when the body is exposed to high temperatures for a long time.

 

Symptoms of Heat Stroke:
  • High body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)
  • Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Confusion or altered mental state
  • Slurred speech
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness

Call 911 immediately if you think someone is experiencing a heat stroke. While waiting for medical help, move the person to a cooler place, use a cool cloth or a cool bath to lower body temperature, remove excess clothing, and give them water only if they are conscious and able to swallow.

Key Differences

  • Severity: Heat exhaustion is less severe and can often be treated with rest and hydration.
    Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
  • Symptoms: Heat exhaustion includes heavy sweating and a fast, weak pulse, while heat stroke
    involves a high body temperature, hot and dry skin, and a rapid, strong pulse.

 

Prevention Is the Best Protection

There are several things you can do to prevent heat stroke and heat exhaustion, especially in the summer months when it’s significantly hotter outside.

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you aren’t thirsty, especially if you’re outside or exercising. Avoid things that can dehydrate you like alcohol and caffeine.
  2. Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
  3. Get Acclimated, Take Breaks: If you’re working or exercising outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or a cool place, especially if you aren’t used to the heat.
  4. Avoid Peak Heat: Try to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  5. Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn, which can affect your body’s ability to cool itself.

Stay Informed and Keep Cool

According to research conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF), heatwaves are predicted to claim 1.6 million lives by 2050. Understanding the differences between heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be the difference between life and death. Knowing when to act and what to do is important to keep you and those around you safe.

According to the CDC’s Heat & Health Tracker, hot weather is linked to an increase
in heat-related illnesses, including cardiovascular and respiratory complications,
renal failure, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney stones, among others.

Climate Change and Your Health

Lynn White 2025 June, Lifestyle and Wellness May 6, 2025

Climate change isn’t just a distant, environmental concern — it’s impacting our health and wellness every day at a local level.

The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2050, the climate crisis could result
in an additional 14.5 million deaths, $12.5 trillion in economic losses, and
$1.1 trillion in extra costs to healthcare systems.

What Is Climate Change?

Climate change refers to significant changes in weather patterns over a long period of time. Increasing temperatures and more frequent, dangerous weather events such as flooding, droughts, heat waves, and severe storms can all be tied to climate change. Although climate change has occurred naturally for centuries, human activities — especially the burning of fossil fuels — have significantly accelerated its effects.

Health Risks on the Rise

Air Pollution:

Climate change negatively affects the quality of the air due to the presence of particulate matter and ozone gas. According to the American Lung Association’s “State of the Air” 2024 report, 131.2 million people in the U.S. live in areas with failing grades for ozone and particle pollution.

  • Particulate Matter: Tiny particles of dust, dirt, soot, and smoke in the air that can irritate the lungs and cause a variety of respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis, among other lung diseases and health problems.
  • Ozone Gas: Ground-level ozone, which forms when fumes released from cars, power plants, and industrial facilities chemically react to sunlight, can harm our health. Unlike the protective ozone layer in the upper atmosphere, ground-level ozone can cause chest pains, coughing, and throat irritation and can worsen respiratory issues.

Food and Water Quality:

Climate change brings higher temperatures and more extreme weather events like floods and droughts. Higher temperatures speed up bacteria growth, while floods and droughts disrupt the balance of pathogens in water.

  • Water Quality: Increased precipitation causes harmful pollutants like sediments, pathogens, and pesticides to seep into our water supply. Drought only worsens the situation as higher temperatures increase evaporation, and access to safe water decreases even more. According to the United Nations, less than 1% of the water on Earth is usable and available freshwater.
  • Foodborne Illnesses: Changes in our environment affect the presence of pathogens, like bacteria and viruses, in our food. Warmer air and water temperatures provide an ideal environment for pathogens to thrive, increasing the risk of infections from bacteria such as Salmonella, E. Coli, and Campylobacter. According to the World Health Organization, unsafe food is responsible for 600 million cases of foodborne diseases and 420,000 deaths each year.

To avoid these risks, get your water from a filtered source, wash produce thoroughly before consuming it, and cook all meats to the right temperature.

Mental Health:

The mental health effects of climate change are just as important as the physical ones. Floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and other severe weather events can cause trauma and anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association, survivors of California’s 2018 Camp Fire — one of the most destructive fires in the state’s history — experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at rates comparable to war veterans. Lower-income communities are particularly vulnerable, as natural disasters could significantly limit access to food, water, and shelter. Living in an unpredictable climate impacts everyone, especially those who are at higher risk of being affected. It’s important to seek help and support if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

How to Help

There’s a variety of things you can do in your community to combat climate change.

  1. Stay Informed: It’s important to track air quality and weather reports so you can take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
  2. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Reducing car travel by carpooling and using rideshare platforms, recycling, and using energy-efficient appliances are just some of the ways you can help make a difference.
  3. Get Involved: Trash clean-ups, tree planting, and utilizing community gardens are all great ways to make a positive impact locally.
  4. Spread the Word: Educating your family, friends, colleagues, and community on how climate change directly impacts our health can help us to make informed decisions on how to change small things that make big impacts.

The Future Needs Us

Climate change is a global phenomenon that affects us all. By understanding what it is and how it affects us daily, we can inform others and make more conscious decisions to help the environment and our health.

According to an APA survey conducted in 2020, 56% of U.S. adults
said climate change is the most important issue facing the world today.

Menopausal Support Is Here

Lynn White 2025 March, Benefit Spotlight February 13, 2025

Over 73% of women in 2021 reported not receiving treatments necessary to deal with menopausal symptoms.

Menopause is a natural process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle and happens to all women around their 40s or 50s. During this time, the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones that prep the body for pregnancy ends. There are numerous symptoms and health issues that can result from menopause. However, every woman’s body is different, so it is crucial to find resources provided through medical plans or vendors that can help ease the transition more securely.

Do I Need the Resources?

In the past, menopause symptoms and treatments were almost unheard of and under-reported. An online survey conducted via social media found that over 80% of women reported receiving no menopause education at school. Some women said that they learned about menopause through websites and friends. In the past few years, menopause awareness has risen in public health, yet over 73% of women in 2021 reported not receiving treatments necessary to deal with symptoms. In another 2023 survey taken by 2,000 American and British women, 80% agreed that managing perimenopause or menopause at work is a challenge but may fear sharing information with their employers as it could impact career growth.

Not only should women who are between the ages of 40 and 50 seek resources to help mitigate the challenges and questions brought on by menopause, but also those who received a hysterectomy or chemotherapy treatments may need additional support to help with the transition. If you fall between the age range for menopause or received certain treatments, it’s best to lookout for symptoms to know when it’s time to reach out such as:

  • Irregular periods
  • Hot flashes
  • Loss of bladder control
  • Trouble Sleeping
  • Loss of Libido
  • Mood Changes

Available Resouces

As the workforce ages and includes more women than ever before, employers recognize that menopause cause health challenges that may affect the productivity of some of their employees. To combat this, many jobs have teamed up with medical providers that offer resources in their health benefit packages for menopause support. Here are several options that are available through existing medical plans and vendors that might be beneficial to consider:

  • Ovia Health – Family health benefits platform that offers menopause support. Access education and guidance to better understand and effectively manage menopause with confidence.
  • Evernow – A subscription-based online platform that provides comprehensive care across all areas of menopause. Features include 24/7 in-app messaging with your provider, symptoms tracking, educational content, and access to community events. Membership plans are FSA/HSA eligible.
  • Gennev – Healthcare company that focuses specifically on menopause health. Available in all 50 states for those enrolled in Aetna, Anthem, or United Healthcare. You receive flexible scheduling, a fitness and weight management coach, and same-day prescription.
  • Midi Health – Women’s healthcare provider that is available through Aetna, United Healthcare, Health Net, Blue California, Anthem, and Cigna. It provides virtual visits, lifestyle coaching, and will assist in finding a facility near you for in-person care.
  • Maven Clinic – Provides employees and spouses through approved insurance plans support through all stages of reproduction from fertility to menopause. You receive free, 24/7 virtual access to menopause symptom management.

The number of healthcare companies that are now offering menopausal support is growing, and it is vital for women to know their options and seek out resources that will aid in their well-being during this natural stage of life.

Between 15 and 50% of perimenopausal and menopausal individuals may experience other menopause symptoms including anxiety and depression.
Sources:

The Best Anti-Aging Technique Is Quality Sleep

Lynn White 2025 March, Lifestyle and Wellness February 11, 2025

Sleep provides the body the opportunity to restore and repair itself.

The beauty and cosmetic industry generate billions of dollars selling all types of anti-aging cream for people who desire to look younger. Plastic surgeons make millions injecting fluids that may enhance the physical appearance of one’s face. However, what many may dismiss is the best and free anti-aging medicine that has existed since mankind and is available to all: quality sleep.

Aside from genetics, diet and exercise, stress, and the environment, a good night’s sleep is all you need to gain a more youthful appearance. Sleep provides the body the opportunity to restore and repair itself. The cells in the body work to vacuum out damaged cells and promote the growth of new cells. This process works in all parts of the body from the brain to the muscles and throughout the epidermis. During the day, the collagen in your skin is exposed to UV rays, which increases wrinkles and age spots. When the body rests at night, cells regenerate new skin cells by cycling nutrients and oxygen. The stress hormone called cortisol decreases, which assists the skin in repairing the day’s damages. More collagen is also produced as the previous was exposed to UV rays and will now minimize fine lines. The human growth hormone is pervasive and strengthens the skin.

What less sleep does to the skin is the exact opposite. In a sleep study conducted on rats, researchers found a significant increase in damage to oxidative and organ-specified DNA in rats that were sleep deprived for 10 days. There was also a 5.3-fold expansion in dying cells compared to the group of rats that were given quality sleep. Metabolic abnormalities were present, which increases the risk for disease and cell injuries. These same issues are also present in the human body if deprived of sleep and will visibly result in swollen eyes, undereye circles, paler skin, and more wrinkles and fine lines.

How to Increase Chances for a Good Night Rest

The CDC discovered that a substantial proportion of U.S. adults have failed to meet the recommended hours of sleep and considers it to be a public health problem. There are numerous external contributors such as electronic usage at night, poor diet and exercise, stress, and disturbing environmental factors that can be adjusted. Here are some ways you can gain and maintain a quality night’s rest:

  • Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
  • Sleep in a dark, quiet, and cool room.
  • Stay off all electronics at least 1 hour before bedtime.
  • Eat organic whole foods and avoid ultra-processed foods.
  • Exercise regularly throughout the week.
  • Avoid large meals, alcohol, and caffeine before bedtime.
  • Do breathing exercises and leaving any additional work or concerns to be dealt with in the morning.

Having a healthy routine before bedtime will aid in achieving quality sleep and more youthful looking skin, and the best part is it’s all free.

According to the National Library of Medicine, the widespread use of portable electronic devices and the normalization of screen media devices in the bedroom, insufficient sleep has become commonplace, affecting 30% of toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children and the majority of adolescents.
Sources:
‹  Older posts