Grundy County Memorial Hospital | Live Well | Fall 2020

Inside FALL 2020 During the pandemic, your focus has probably been on protecting the physical health of your loved ones. But equally important is your mental well- being. Science tells us that our emo- tional health can have a big impact on our physical health. The American Heart Association reports that people who are happier tend to have better heart health and manage stress better. So how can you build positivity in your life and dial down your anxiety? Stay connected with friends and family. By phone, social media or Experts say optimism can help us move through life with improved health. Health professionals, pictured here, are sharing the “bright spots” that they’ve discovered despite the pandemic. Top row, from left: “Our communities have embraced the changes in health care brought about by COVID-19 and are following the measures that will help keep our patients and health care team members safe.” —Adam Scherling, MHA, GCMH Administrator “Our patients’ rapid adoption of virtual care is a bright spot. We’re able to stay on top of important health care needs.” —Jeremy Cordes, DO, PharmD, Family Medicine, UnityPoint Clinic–Parkersburg 2 New mental health services 3 Lifestyle classes go virtual online video chat, regularly check in with loved ones. Maintain your normal routine. Wake up and go to bed at around the same time. Eat regular meals. Practice good hygiene and change into suitable daytime clothes, even if you’re working from home or temporarily not working. Keep your living space neat and tidy. Uncertainty is just outside your front door. Keep your side of the door organized. Limit the news you read. News about the pandemic can be stressful. Turn off social media if it offers more doom than positivity. Focus on what brings happi- ness each day. At the end of the day, consider what you accomplished. What are you grateful for? Write your answers down in a journal so you can revisit them when you’re feeling down. Spend time in nature. Take a stroll through a park or get on the nearest trail. Studies have shown that spend- ing time in nature can lower your stress levels. A look on the bright side The importance of a positive outlook Bottom row, from left: “Less hectic schedules mean families are playing together outdoors more often.” —Eric Neverman, DO, Pediat- rics and Internal Medicine, UnityPoint Clinic–Grundy Center “More home-cooked meals, which leads to improved nutrition and smaller portions.” —Wendy Brewer, RDN, LD, GCMH Dietitian “Coping with all of the aspects of the pandemic, both at work and at home, has given me more grace, perspec- tive, and respect for illness and good health.” —Tasha Opperman, RN, BSN, GCMH Infection Preventionist