Employee Relations

Breast Care Awareness: Understanding, Prevention, and Action for All

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Breast care awareness is a vital component of health that is not limited to women. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers globally, affecting individuals of all genders, including men and non-binary individuals. Prioritizing breast health is essential for early detection and successful treatment. This article will explore the importance of breast care, the significance of early detection, and actionable steps everyone can take to promote awareness and health.

The Importance of Breast Health

In the United States, breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women, but it also impacts men, with about 1 in 833 men diagnosed each year (American Cancer Society, 2023). Non-binary individuals, who may have breast tissue, are also at risk. Understanding risk factors, symptoms, and screening recommendations can empower all individuals to take control of their breast health.

Set of people with awareness ribbons on color background. World Cancer Day
Risk Factors

Several risk factors contribute to breast cancer, regardless of gender:

  • Genetics: Family history is a significant factor. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase breast cancer risk for all genders (National Cancer Institute, 2023).
  • Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 55.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity elevate risk for everyone.
  • Hormonal Factors: Conditions such as early menstruation or hormone replacement therapy can influence breast cancer risk across genders.

By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their health.

The Significance of Early Detection

Early detection is critical for improving breast cancer survival rates. When diagnosed early, the 5-year survival rate can be as high as 99% (American Cancer Society, 2023). Regular screenings and self-examinations can help identify abnormalities before they progress.

Recommended Screening Guidelines

The American Cancer Society provides the following guidelines:

  • Individuals aged 40-44: Optional annual mammograms.
  • Individuals aged 45-54: Annual mammograms.
  • Individuals 55 and older: Transition to mammograms every two years or continue yearly.
  • High-risk individuals: May need to start screening earlier or include MRI scans.

It’s essential for everyone, including men and non-binary individuals, to consult healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate screening strategy based on their specific needs.

Self-Examinations: An Essential Tool

Self-examinations play a crucial role in breast care for all individuals. Familiarity with the normal appearance and feel of breast tissue allows for the early identification of changes. The best time for a self-exam is a few days after menstruation for those who menstruate, as breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender.

How to Perform a Self-Examination

  1. Visual Inspection: Stand in front of a mirror with arms at your sides and then raise your arms overhead. Look for any changes in shape, size, or color.
  2. Physical Examination: Use the pads of your fingers to gently press around the entire breast and underarm area, checking for any lumps or changes.
  3. Record Findings: Keeping a journal of any changes can be helpful for discussions with healthcare providers.
Promoting Awareness

Breast care awareness is not just a personal responsibility; it requires community involvement. Educational campaigns can help dispel myths about breast cancer and increase screening rates among all genders. Initiatives like Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October provide a platform for organizations to share valuable information and resources.

Community Resources

  • Local Health Departments: Often offer free or low-cost mammogram services.
  • Support Groups: Create safe spaces for individuals of all genders to share experiences and learn from each other.
  • Online Resources: Websites like the American Cancer Society and the National Breast Cancer Foundation provide up-to-date information on breast health, screening, and support.
Conclusion: Take Action

Breast care awareness is an inclusive issue that affects everyone. By understanding risk factors, advocating for regular screenings, and performing self-examinations, individuals can significantly impact their health and the health of those around them. It’s crucial to foster conversations about breast health, dispel misconceptions, and promote regular check-ups for all.

For more information and resources, individuals can visit the American Cancer Society’s website or contact their healthcare providers. Remember, early detection saves lives—prioritize your breast health, regardless of your gender. Now is the perfect time to schedule a routine, preventative check-up with your primary care physician!

For your reference, the section, from Kalamazoo College’s 2024 Benefits Guide, comparing the in-network benefit for the medical plans is provided as an image below. If you click the image, you will be taken to HR’s Open Enrollment May 2024 webpage where the URL code for the full Benefits Guide is shared.

A chart that compares the in-network features of our medical plan with ASR. For full comparison please refer to the most recent benefits guide by clicking the image.
References
  1. American Cancer Society. (2023). Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2023-2024.
  2. National Cancer Institute. (2023). Breast Cancer Risk Factors.

HR Buzz: August Newsletter

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

As we get ready for the next academic year, here are a few reminders to help each of us prepare. There might even be some tips to help friends and family outside of Kalamazoo College.

Nurturing Your Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health. Here are some key ways to take care of your mental health so you have the resilience to cope with life’s ups and downs, adapt to change and maintain healthy relationships.

Accept yourself. Every person is different, and no one is perfect. Accept yourself for who you are, and take pride in your unique strengths and quirks. When you find yourself being self-critical, pause and reflect on what’s good about you – why those in your life love and appreciate you and all of the things you do well.

Strengthen social connections. Social connections are a key element in your mental health. Make time for the people you care about, especially the people with whom you’re able to discuss your emotions. Pay attention to who in your social network lifts your mood when you’re feeling down and who is open and honest with you when you’re seeing things in an unrealistic way.

Calm yourself. When you’re dealing with a stressful situation or feel your body growing tense, take time out to calm yourself. Learn stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness, and use the ones that work for you to relax your body and your mind. Physical activity, healthy sleep habits and time with friends can all help to reduce your stress.

Practice healthy thinking. Build your emotional resilience by adopting positive habits of thought. Practicing gratitude is one way to do this. Take time every day to think about what you are grateful for, and write it down.

Talk about how you feel. When you’re sad, worried or upset, talk about what you’re going through with someone you trust. When you hold those feelings inside yourself, they can build, becoming more intense and uncomfortable. When you talk about them, you begin to process your emotions, understand what lies behind them and find ways to solve the problems you’re facing.

Find purpose and meaning in life. It can be through spirituality or religious practice, caring relationships with others or helping people in. If you don’t find purpose and meaning in your job or your daily life, look for other ways to find this satisfaction. Consider volunteering, paying more attention to the relationships in your life, exploring your spirituality or simply looking for new ways to be kind.

When you’re suffering emotionally and nothing seems to help, reach out for support. Your employee assistance program (EAP) can direct you to a professional counselor who can help you cope with the challenges you’re facing. Contact your BHS Care Coordinator at 800-245-1150.

Effective Time Management Strategies

It can be a struggle to balance work with other areas of your life, often described as work-life balance. Learning new ways to handle things will help you achieve that important balance. Below are ideas to help you bring your work and life into balance.

Manage Your Time. Avoid procrastination. For many people, most of the stress they feel comes from simply being disorganized and procrastinating. Learn to set more realistic goals and deadlines, then stick to them. You’ll find that not only are you less stressed, but your work will be better.

Set Realistic Expectations with Yourself. Set realistic expectations with yourself that allows for quality work. If you think it will take 1.5 hours to do something, give yourself two hours. Try the following:

  • Step 1—Give yourself increased time frames to get things done.
  • Step 2—Increase the amount of gentleness and compassion you have for yourself and your limits.
  • Step 3—Slowly increase your expectations of yourself so you have room to grow and succeed.

Talk to Your Supervisor/Chair. If you are feeling overwhelmed. Find out if there is a way of modifying your hours, shifts or job duties to temporary adjust for your current situation.

Slow Down. Life is simply too short, so don’t let things pass by you in a blur. Take steps to stop and enjoy the things and people around you. Don’t make plans for every evening or weekend, and find some ways to distance yourself or take breaks from the things that are causing you the most stress.

Share the Load. Even though you may feel you are the only one capable of doing something, it is usually not the case. Get your partner, family or friends to help you with personal and family responsibilities. Taking care of the household, children or parents should not be the responsibility of just one person.

Take Charge. Sometimes it is easier to allow yourself to feel overwhelmed rather than to take charge and develop a prioritized list of things that need to get done. Develop a list, set priorities and then enjoy the satisfaction of crossing things off the list.

In the end, the key word is balance. You need to find the right balance that works for you. Celebrate your successes and don’t dwell on your failures. Life is a process, and so is striving for balance in your life.

If you need help with balancing, don’t hesitate to seek advice. Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential assessment and counseling services. BHS is available by calling 800-245-1150 or visiting behavioralhealthsystems.com.

Tips to Prepare for Back-to-School

Back-to-school time is around the corner. It’s an exciting time, full of hope and anticipation. Who’s my teacher? Are all my friends returning this year? Those questions and others can have many students dreading the start of the school year, leading to much anxiety and even depression. How can you help get ready from a mental health standpoint for the start of a new school year? Here are a few tips:

  • Start your routine before the first day of school. Don’t wait until the first day of school/class to get in a schedule. The best thing you can do is begin a routine before the year starts.
  • Remind your student of what they learned the previous year. While school “veterans” are familiar with their school, they may have anxiety from thinking they haven’t retained what they learned the previous year. Do a short review from the previous year with math questions, spelling words or science lessons.
  • Familiarize your student with where they are going to school. Ease some anxiety by taking your child to see the school building and facilities before the first day, especially for first timers. If the school has an open house or orientation, take advantage of that. At least walk around the outside of the building, and show your student that school is fun and more than sitting in a classroom.
  • Stay engaged with your student beyond the first day. After the first day, keep asking about their time at school and open the lines of communication. You need to be excited about your child’s school day. Be intentional and create time to talk.

With these tips, you can help your child or teenager be both mentally and emotionally prepared to start the year off right!

Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential assessment and counseling services. BHS is available by calling 800-245-1150 or visiting behavioralhealthsystems.com.

Recipe: Caprese Salad

4 Servings • 15 Minutes Prep Time

Ingredients • 2 pounds tomatoes • 1 small shallot, thinly sliced • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar • flaky sea salt • 1 cup arugula leaves, torn • 8 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced • 1 cup basil leaves, torn • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • coarsely ground black pepper • toasted ciabatta bread for serving

Instructions • Cut tomatoes and shallot • Pour red wine and sprinkle sea salt on top in a bowl • Toss and let marinate 5 minutes • Scatter arugula leaves on platter • Add shallots and tomatoes on top • Drizzle with olive oil, add salt and pepper to taste

Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Autism, and Employee Assistance Program

Kalamazoo College offers an expanded, integrated Mental Health/Substance Abuse (MHSA) and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) benefit. These services are offered through Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. (BHS).
1.800.245.1150 / available 24/7/365
Member Access Portal (Employer ID: KZC)

Did you know? All Kalamazoo College employees have access to the Employee Assistance Program, including six (6) free visits with a counselor.
Members of Kalamazoo College’s health program also have fully integrated services with ASR. Just show your ASR health card!
One plan. One network. One call.

HR Buzz: Summer Newsletter

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Mental health, physical health, and healthy communication. Here are a few health reminders to support you and your household.

Employee Assistance Program. Six Free Visits for you and your household, Stacey Grayson, your Care Coordinator, is happy to assist with benefits, eligibility, and provider availability for concerns such as stress management, personal relationships, grief, depression and anxiety, substance abuse, life transition, and financial/legal questions.

Benefits Concierge. Leave the complex issues to our experts while you focus on being your healthiest self. Benefits Concierge can assist with questions involving claims assistance, eligibility questions, referral guidance, pharmacy information, and Plan explanations.
ProTip Looking for the Enrollment Guide? Save this link as a favorite.

two adults and two children running outside to fly a kite

Exploring the Mental and Physical Benefits of Outdoor Activities

two people engaged in a conversation

The Art of Active Listening: Keys to Healthy Communication

two people in a boat

Essential Guide to Sun Protection and Skin Health

Exploring the Mental and Physical Benefits of Outdoor Activities

Need an excuse to get out of the house? Research continues to demonstrate that being outside and experiencing nature can improve our mental health and increase our ability to focus.

Many of us are in front of a screen for much of our day — whether that be a computer, TV or smartphone. As a result, we spend less time outside experiencing the natural world. Here are some reasons why we all can benefit from taking a nature break.

Nature can help us improve our thinking, reasoning and other mental abilities. When we’re in urban environments or the office all day, we can experience sensory overload, resulting in tension and mental fatigue. Studies have shown that our minds and bodies relax in a natural setting. Nature can provide a mental break by allowing us to temporarily escape the demands of everyday life. It can also boost your creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Nature can improve physical wellness. Getting out into nature can lead us to want to walk, bike, hike or kayak more often. People typically engage in regular physical activity when they’re in nature. So, stepping outside can help you keep a healthy weight or even lose weight by increasing activity levels. Studies have also shown that being in nature has a positive effect on our bodies by reducing cortisol levels, muscle tension and demands on our cardiovascular systems.

Being outside can improve your mental health. Nature can help decrease your anxiety levels and can help lessen stress and feelings of anger. Regular access to green spaces has been linked to lower risks of depression and improved concentration and attention. Being outside allows us to be social and come together with family, friends or even people you don’t know who are also looking for a great hiking trail, for example.

Other related benefits to being in nature. There are some positive health impacts related to getting outdoors. You can learn more about these in the research summary from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They include the following:

  • People who live near parks and green space have less mental distress, are more physically active and have longer life spans.
  • When people exercise outdoors in nature, they do so for longer periods of time and at greater intensities.
  • Positive health effects are enhanced when green space includes water.
    Source: https://health.ucdavis.edu
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The Art of Active Listening: Keys to Healthy Communication

As a speaker, you sometimes focus exclusively on the information that you want to relay. However, your listener or reader may understand your message, understand only a portion of your message or miss your point entirely—even though you transmitted the information accurately by your standard. It is not enough to deliver a message. The message must be received for communication to be successful.

In the send-receive model of communication, receiving or listening is as critical as sending the message because, without listening, it is impossible to personalize and respond to the message.

Active listening. When you listen empathically, you don’t just hear words. You hear thoughts, beliefs and feelings. Empathic listening is highly active and requires hard work. Following these steps will help you to improve your listening skills:

  • The first step is to decide to listen and concentrate on the speaker.
  • Then, use your imagination and enter the speaker’s situation. Concentrate and try to imagine his or her frame of reference and point of view.
  • Observe the speaker’s vocal inflection, enthusiasm or lack of it, and style of delivery.
  • These are essential components of the message. If you are speaking face-to-face, pay attention to the speaker’s facial expressions and other nonverbal cues for more insight into the message.
  • Listen without interruption. Note key phrases or use word associations to remember the speaker’s content.
  • Use paraphrasing or clarifying questions to confirm that you received the intended message. Check your perceptions of how the speaker is feeling to put the text of the message in emotional context.
  • Finally, provide feedback to the speaker.

Like other skills, listening skills improve with practice. Practice empathic listening by attending, paraphrasing and asking questions. The next time someone comes to you with a problem, work on the listening skills that need improvement.

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Essential Guide to Sun Protection and Skin Health

Enjoying activities outside or working a job that takes you outdoors can mean hours under the sun. Over months and years, those hours add up, and the time in the sun may damage your skin.

You can protect your skin and minimize sun damage by taking the steps below when you’re outdoors. Follow these tips even on cool, cloudy or hazy days. Be extra careful around water, snow, concrete and sand because they reflect the sun’s rays. And keep in mind that sunlight is more intense at higher altitudes.

Cover up. For the most protection from the sun, cover your skin when you’re outdoors. Dark clothing with a tight weave offers more protection than light-colored clothing or clothing with a loose weave. Try outdoor gear designed for sun protection. Check the label for its ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). The higher the UPF number, the more protection you get. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella to shade skin that can’t be covered, along with wearing sunscreen.

Use sunscreen often and generously. On uncovered skin, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen generously. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Avoid being in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The sun’s rays are strongest during these hours, so try to schedule outdoor activities for other times, if possible. If you have to be outside during the middle of the day, try to limit the time you’re in the sun. Stay in the shade as much as you can.
See your health care professional if you notice:

  • A new skin growth.
  • Changes to a mole you already have, such as a change in size, shape or color.
  • A mole that bleeds or becomes itchy or painful.
  • Any skin changes that are out of the ordinary for you.
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HR Buzz: Karnival – Thank you!

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Thank you for…

Karnival 2024
  • attending on a beautiful summer day!
  • setting up, working a station, and cleaning up.
  • bringing your loved ones.
  • your artistry, painting a rock (or more), and tie dying.
  • fishing, matching, splashing, and drying.
  • bringing your loved ones.
  • meeting new people.
  • enjoying cotton candy, peanuts, animal crackers, mini corn dogs, and more.
  • taking in the beauty of campus, deer and all.
  • capturing the day and sharing on social media.
  • laughter, conversation, and enjoying the company of many people!

Congratulations and Thank you!

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Did you see that Forbes included Kalamazoo College as a Best Small Employer?

Forbes Ranks K Among Best Small Employers
Great article! Thank you, Andy Brown!

This is an important recognition for all of us – every decision that we make every day contributes to the K culture. Moments of kindness matter! Sometimes those moments feel big and sometimes those moments feel smaller. Every. Moment. Matters.

  • Continue to strive for excellence
  • Embrace your Hornet pride
  • Ask how a colleague or student is doing
  • Hold the door

Thank you and Congratulations!

HR Buzz: Embracing an Attitude of Gratitude – Let’s Appreciate and Thrive Together!

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

As we navigate through the ups and downs of life’s journey, it’s important for us to take a moment and reflect on the power of gratitude. We are reminded about the incredible impact that an attitude of gratitude can have on our workplace environment and our collective success.

Gratitude is not just about saying “thank you” for the sake of politeness; it goes far deeper than that. It is a mindset—a lens through which we view the world, our colleagues, and the opportunities presented to us. When we embrace gratitude, we cultivate an environment of positivity, respect, and appreciation. It allows us to recognize and celebrate the efforts of others, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity within our community.

Expressing gratitude is not limited to grand gestures; it can be as simple as acknowledging a job well done, offering a kind word of appreciation, or taking a moment to listen and empathize with a colleague. By showing genuine gratitude, we uplift one another, boost morale, and support a workplace that inspires collaboration, creativity, and growth.

In the midst of deadlines, challenges, and the ever-evolving demands of our roles, it can be easy to overlook the many fortunes that we have. However, by consciously practicing gratitude, we develop resilience, perspective, and an ability to find joy in both the big and small wins.

All of us are encouraged to take a moment each day to reflect on the positive aspects of our work, the support we receive from one another, and the opportunities we have to make a difference. Let’s make gratitude an integral part of our interactions, not only during meetings or special occasions but also in our day-to-day interactions. Remember, a heartfelt “thank you” can have a profound effect on someone’s day and inspire them to continue giving their best.

Together, let’s fully commit to a workplace culture that thrives on gratitude—a culture where appreciation and recognition are woven into the fabric of our team. By embracing an attitude of gratitude, we will not only enhance our own well-being but also contribute to a stronger, more harmonious work environment that propels us towards greater achievements.

So, write the note, send the kudos, and be the change that you want to see.

Thank YOU!

HR Buzz: Random Acts of Kindness Day

Posted on by Renee Boelcke
K Starfish

Tomorrow is Random Acts of Kindness Day!

Celebrated on February 17, the Random Acts of Kindness movement inspires people every day. As a favorite celebration for many, people everywhere are enjoying doing these acts of kindness. Not only do the acts of kindness bring joy to the receiver, but they spread positive reactions to the giver, too!

One of the most important characteristics is that nothing is expected in return. Other important characteristics include patience, honesty, and being a good listener. Check out the quick video below for inspiration and/or consider these examples.

  • Listen to understand.
  • Leave a kind note for someone, no explanation is needed.
  • Share words of encouragement. You never know who might need them.
  • Put your skills to work for someone in need.
  • Mail a “thinking of you” card to someone you’ve not to talk to in a while.

Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund

Posted on by Renee Boelcke
Homeowner Assistance Fund

Do you know someone who owns their home and was/is experiencing financial hardship related to the pandemic? If so, please share this information.

The Homeowner Assistance Fund (MIHAF) provides funds to prevent homeowner mortgage delinquencies, defaults, foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, and displacements of homeowners experiencing financial hardship on or after January 21, 2020.

Visit the Homeowner Assistance Fund site for details including eligibility, instructions to apply, and required documentation.