If you’re a mom, chances are you wear many hats. You’re probably used to being pulled in multiple directions at any moment. But one of the most important roles you play is that of a healthcare decision-maker for your family. According to a recent study, women make 80% of healthcare purchasing decisions. This means it’s up to you to schedule appointments, research doctors, ask questions about side effects, and more. With so much on your plate, it can be easy to let your health fall by the wayside. But it’s important to remember that you can’t take care of your family if you don’t take care of yourself first. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy and stress-free.
Schedule regular check-ups for yourself and your family members. It can be easy to forget about doctor’s appointments when you have many other things. Still, it’s essential to make time for them. Once a year, everyone in your family should see their primary care physician for a physical exam. This is an excellent opportunity to catch any potential problems early on between annual check-ups and additional dental cleanings or shots appointments. And don’t forget to schedule wellness visits for yourself! These are essential to preventative care and can help catch potential problems before they become serious.
Stay up-to-date on vaccines and immunizations. In addition to annual flu shots, there are other vaccines and immunizations that adults and children need to stay healthy. Make sure you and your family are up-to-date on all recommended vaccines and immunizations. Check with your doctor or the CDC website for more information.
Teach your kids healthy habits early on. One of the best ways to ensure your children grow up to be healthy adults is to teach them healthy habits. Instill good habits such as proper hand-washing, nutritious foods, and regular exercise. At the same time, they’re young, and they’ll be more likely to continue those habits into adulthood. Also, ensure they know how to access health services on their own in case they get sick or injured when you’re not around. Teach them how to recognize signs and symptoms of illness, use 911 correctly, and where they can go for medical care if needed.
Manage stress with healthy coping mechanisms. As a busy mom, you’re bound to feel sometimes stressed (or maybe even all the time!). It’s essential to find healthy ways to deal with that stress so it doesn’t take a toll on your physical and mental health. Some Healthy coping mechanisms include exercise, mindfulness meditation, journaling, and deep breathing exercises. Find what works best for you, and carve out time for yourself daily.
Taking care of a family is no easy feat. Still, Gen X women are up for the challenge. But it’s essential to remember that we can’t take care of our family if we don’t take care of ourselves first. By following these tips, we can ensure that we’re staying healthy and with less stress so we can
