health

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) & Light Exposure Wellness: Supporting Well-Being During Michigan’s Darker Months

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As winter settles in and daylight hours grow shorter, many people in Michigan begin to feel the effects of reduced sunlight. With sunrise arriving late and sunset coming early, the lack of natural light can influence mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern—is more common in northern states like ours. Recognizing the signs and taking simple preventive steps can help support a healthier, more balanced winter season.

Recognizing Symptoms of SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder can manifest in subtle ways at first, and many individuals may dismiss symptoms as “the winter blues.” Common signs include persistent low mood, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, and increased craving for carbohydrates. Some people may also experience irritability or social withdrawal. Because these symptoms can overlap with general stress or fatigue, awareness is key. SAD is a legitimate, well-documented mental health condition, and individuals who notice prolonged symptoms should consider seeking guidance from a qualified medical or mental health professional.

Gentle Morning Light Routines

Light plays a powerful role in regulating circadian rhythms—the internal clock that influences sleep and mood. During winter months, integrating gentle morning light exposure can help signal to the body that the day has begun. This might include opening blinds immediately upon waking, spending a few minutes near a bright window, or taking a short walk outdoors when possible. Some individuals explore the use of light therapy lamps, which are designed to mimic natural daylight; however, anyone considering a therapeutic light device should consult their healthcare provider to determine whether it is appropriate for them.

Movement + Sunlight Breaks

Even brief exposure to natural light can have positive effects on mood and alertness. Incorporating movement breaks throughout the day—especially outdoors—can provide both light exposure and a boost in circulation. A 10–15 minute midday walk, standing near a window during a break, or choosing a well-lit space for work or study can collectively support energy levels. Michigan’s intermittent winter sunshine may be short-lived, but taking advantage of those moments can help counteract the effects of reduced daylight.

Vitamin D Awareness

Reduced sunlight also means many individuals produce less vitamin D in winter, since the body synthesizes it when the skin is exposed to UVB rays. Low vitamin D has been associated with fatigue, low mood, and bone health concerns. It’s important to note that information about vitamin D is general education—not personal medical advice. Anyone concerned about their vitamin D levels or considering supplements should consult with their healthcare provider, who can assess individual needs and recommend appropriate options.

Creating a Supportive Winter Wellness Routine

While winter brings natural challenges, intentional habits can help maintain physical and emotional well-being. Light exposure, movement, social connection, hydration, and adequate sleep all play important roles. Checking in with oneself, seeking support when needed, and cultivating small daily wellness practices can make the winter months more manageable and, in many cases, more enjoyable.

Kalamazoo College employees also have access to confidential support through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP offers free short-term counseling, wellness resources, and guidance for managing stress, seasonal changes, or other personal concerns. These services can be especially helpful during the darker months when emotional well-being may require additional attention. More information is available on the HR website, and employees are encouraged to use these resources whenever extra support might be beneficial.

References
  1. American Psychiatric Association. (2023). Seasonal affective disorder. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/seasonal-affective-disorder
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Vitamin D: Fact sheet for consumers. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition
  3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Seasonal affective disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

Winter Safety & Campus Preparedness: Staying Safe During the Cold Season

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As temperatures drop and winter weather settles over campus, safety becomes a shared responsibility. Snow, ice, and rapidly changing conditions can create hazards for students, faculty, and staff alike. By understanding common winter risks—and taking simple steps to prepare—we can reduce injuries, prevent accidents, and ensure our campus community remains safe and operational throughout the season.

Safe Winter Walking

One of the most common winter hazards is icy walkways. Even with timely snow removal and salting, surfaces can refreeze overnight or remain slick in shaded areas. The safest approach is to adopt a “walk like a penguin” strategy: keep your center of gravity over your feet, take short, deliberate steps, and keep your hands free for balance. Wearing appropriate footwear with good traction is also an essential preventive measure. If you identify untreated icy spots, report them promptly to Facilities so they can be addressed quickly.

Car Safety & Emergency Preparedness

For community members who commute, winter travel introduces an additional layer of risk. Preparing your vehicle for winter conditions can significantly improve safety. Basic recommendations include maintaining proper tire pressure, keeping the gas tank at least half full, and ensuring that windshield washer fluid is rated for freezing temperatures. Drivers should also keep a winter emergency kit in their car. Items such as blankets, a flashlight, a small shovel, ice scraper, booster cables, and non-perishable snacks can make a critical difference if stranded during severe weather. These precautions not only protect the driver but also reduce strain on local emergency services.

Recognizing Frostbite & Hypothermia

While many people limit their time outdoors in the winter, exposure to extreme cold still presents a risk. Knowing the early signs of frostbite and hypothermia can help prevent severe injury. Frostbite often begins with numbness, tingling, or pale, waxy skin—usually on extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and the nose. Hypothermia, which occurs when body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), can present as shivering, confusion, slowed speech, or clumsiness. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek warmth immediately and, if necessary, request medical assistance. Quick recognition and response can prevent long-term damage.

Slip-and-Fall Prevention

Slip-and-fall injuries are one of the most frequent workplace and campus incidents during winter. These injuries not only impact the health and well-being of community members but also represent a significant liability risk for institutions. Prevention is a shared effort: Facilities works diligently to clear walkways, but individual choices matter too. Planning extra time to reach your destination, avoiding shortcuts through unmaintained areas, using handrails, and wearing appropriate footwear can reduce the likelihood of falls. Indoors, wiping shoes upon entry helps prevent wet floors that may cause slips.

A Campus-Wide Commitment

Winter safety requires awareness, preparation, and cooperation. By understanding risks and adopting simple preventive measures, we help ensure a safer environment for everyone on campus. As we move deeper into the season, your vigilance and proactive steps make a meaningful difference.

References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Cold stress: Prevention and treatment. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/coldstress/
  2. National Weather Service. (2023). Winter safety tips. https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter
  3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2023). Winter weather: Plan, equip, train. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.osha.gov/winter-weather

Community Kindness & Restorative Connection: Strengthening Workplace Well-Being at Year’s End

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

As the year winds down, we find ourselves balancing competing demands—final projects, student needs, family obligations, and the emotional intensity that often accompanies the holiday season. December offers a unique opportunity to intentionally cultivate a sense of community through kindness and restorative connection. These practices are not simply “feel-good” additions to the workplace; they meaningfully support emotional well-being, collaboration, and resilience.

Kindness Impacts Mood and Stress Regulation

Kindness, whether expressed through words, small actions, or recognition, has a measurable impact on mood and stress regulation. Research shows that engaging in or receiving small acts of kindness activates areas of the brain associated with reward and bonding, increasing feelings of social connection and reducing stress responses (Curry et al., 2018). In a higher-education environment—where workloads fluctuate dramatically depending on the point in the academic calendar—a culture that encourages kindness can act as a buffer against burnout and isolation.

The Benefits of Restorative Connection

Restorative connection builds upon these benefits by emphasizing intentional, relationship-centered interactions. This concept stems from restorative practices, which prioritize empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue. In the workplace, restorative connection may look like taking a few moments to check in with a colleague, offering appreciation for their work, or creating space for employees to share thoughts and challenges without judgment. Even brief interactions grounded in empathy and acknowledgment strengthen team cohesion and psychological safety—two elements closely linked to our satisfaction and likelihood of remaining engaged within our work community (Edmondson, 2019).

Use Holiday Season to Prioritize Restorative Connections

The end of the year is an ideal time to prioritize these practices because people naturally begin reflecting on their experiences, accomplishments, and difficulties. Kindness and restorative connection invite a sense of shared humanity, reminding us that we are part of a supportive community rather than facing challenges alone. This can be especially meaningful in a small liberal arts college environment where collaboration and connection directly influence the overall campus culture.

Practical Tips for the Workplace

Practical ways to cultivate community kindness and restorative connection in December include:

  • • Expressing appreciation for a colleague’s work, even in small ways. (Consider sending a Kudos!)
  •  Checking in with coworkers who appear overwhelmed or unusually quiet.
  • Offering help during end-of-year deadlines or heavy student-service periods.
  • Sharing positive feedback from students or other departments.
  • Participating in voluntary community events, such as gratitude walls, small cards of encouragement, or wellness events.

These actions not only benefit others but also support the giver. Research indicates that practicing kindness increases personal well-being, enhances mood, and strengthens overall life satisfaction (Aknin et al., 2020). When woven into our workplace culture, this becomes a shared cycle of support and encouragement.

Conclusion

Ultimately, community kindness and restorative connection remind us that wellness is not solely an individual undertaking. It is also a collective practice that sustains teams, strengthens relationships, and fosters a healthier, more compassionate work environment. As we close the year, choosing kindness becomes an intentional act of care—both for ourselves and for the people we work alongside each day.

References

  1. Aknin, L. B., Whillans, A. V., Norton, M. I., & Dunn, E. W. (2020). Happiness and prosocial behavior: An evaluation of the evidence. World Happiness Report, 2020, 97–112.
  2. Curry, O. S., Rowland, L. A., Van Lissa, C. J., Zlotowitz, S., McAlaney, J., & Whitehouse, H. (2018). Happy to help? A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of performing acts of kindness on the well-being of the actor. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 76, 320–329.
  3. Edmondson, A. C. (2019). The fearless organization: Creating psychological safety in the workplace for learning, innovation, and growth. Wiley.

COPD Awareness Month: Breathing Better, Living Stronger

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Each November, health organizations and communities observe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Awareness Month—a time dedicated to education, early detection, and support for the millions of people affected by chronic lung disease. COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a progressive condition that makes it difficult to breathe and can limit daily activities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and millions more may live with the condition without knowing it.

Understanding the Disease

COPD develops slowly, often after years of exposure to irritants that damage the lungs and airways. The most common cause is long-term cigarette smoking, but exposure to air pollutants, secondhand smoke, and occupational dust or chemicals can also contribute. Typical symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent respiratory infections. Because these signs can be mistaken for normal aging or a lingering cold, many people are not diagnosed until the disease has advanced.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early identification of COPD can significantly improve quality of life and slow disease progression. A simple breathing test known as spirometry can measure how well the lungs work and help providers confirm a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, individuals can partner with healthcare professionals to create a management plan that includes medication, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and smoking cessation.

Living Well with COPD

While COPD currently has no cure, many people live active, meaningful lives with proper treatment and self-care. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs—which combine education, exercise training, and counseling—are proven to improve endurance, reduce symptoms, and increase confidence. Nutrition, hydration, and stress management also play important roles. Avoiding triggers like cold air, pollution, and respiratory infections can prevent symptom flare-ups.

Support from friends, family, and peers is essential. Community resources, such as the COPD Foundation’s online networks and local Better Breathers Clubs, connect patients and caregivers with education and encouragement. For those living with COPD, staying current with vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 is another key step toward protecting respiratory health.

Raising Awareness

COPD Awareness Month encourages everyone to take a moment to appreciate the simple act of breathing—and to protect it. By understanding the risk factors, promoting early testing, and supporting those who live with chronic lung disease, we help ensure that every breath counts.

Your Health Benefits: Preventive Screenings Matter

Your health plan includes free annual preventive screenings—an important resource designed to help you stay healthy and detect potential conditions early. Early detection gives you the best opportunity for effective treatment and long-term quality of life. Take advantage of this benefit by scheduling your preventive screenings with your healthcare provider today. A few minutes of prevention can make a lasting difference for your well-being.

References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, November). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/copd
  2. COPD Foundation. (2024). COPD awareness and education resources. https://www.copdfoundation.org
  3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2023). COPD: Learn more, breathe better. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/breathebetter

Small Steps. Big Change.

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

🩺 November is American Diabetes Awareness Month!!!

Did you know? More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and another 98 million have prediabetes—many without even knowing it (CDC, 2024). This November, we’re focusing on awareness, prevention, and the small daily choices that help protect our health.

💡 Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the body can’t properly produce or use insulin, causing high blood sugar levels.

  • Type 1 Diabetes – An autoimmune condition that stops the body from making insulin.
  • Type 2 Diabetes – The most common form, often linked to lifestyle and family history.
  • Gestational Diabetes – Occurs during pregnancy and increases later risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Even prediabetes—slightly elevated blood sugar—can be reversed through early action.

🧘 Small Changes Make a Big Impact

The American Diabetes Association recommends a few achievable habits:

  • Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Move your body at least 150 minutes per week.
  • Reduce stress and prioritize rest.
  • Schedule regular checkups and lab screenings.

Even losing 5-7 % of body weight can significantly lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Pro Tip!

Swap one sugary drink for water each day—over a year, that small step could prevent several pounds of weight gain and lower your blood sugar levels.

💼 Your Benefits in Action

Managing or preventing diabetes starts with awareness—and the right support. As part of our health benefits, employees who have been diagnosed with diabetes have access to Teladoc’s Chronic Condition Management program, offering personalized guidance from certified professionals in nutrition, fitness, and blood-sugar management.

Through this program, participants can:

  • Connect virtually with licensed physicians, diabetes educators, and dietitians.
  • Receive ongoing coaching, education, and progress tracking.
  • Access 24/7 support from the convenience of home.

This valuable resource helps employees better manage their condition, stay on track with treatment plans, and make informed choices about their overall health.

🩵 Convenient care from anywhere—Teladoc brings healthcare to you.

Even if you don’t have a diagnosis, prevention is the best medicine. All employees are encouraged to schedule their free annual preventive screening with their primary care provider. This simple checkup can detect early warning signs and help you take proactive steps toward long-term health.

Pro Tip!

🩵 Small steps—like completing your annual screening—can make a lasting difference in your well-being.

❤️ Together Toward Wellness

Diabetes Awareness Month isn’t just about statistics; it’s about empowerment. Every choice—every healthy meal, walk, or doctor visit—moves us closer to lasting well-being. Let’s use this month as a reminder to care for ourselves and support one another on the journey toward better health.

References
  • American Diabetes Association. (2024). Diabetes basics. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). National diabetes statistics report, 2024. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
  • National Institutes of Health. (2023). Preventing type 2 diabetes: Steps you can take.
  • National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-type-2-diabetes

Finish Cybersecurity Awareness Month Strong: Protect Your Benefits Logins

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Open enrollment draws many of us to health and financial benefits portals—and that makes October a prime time for phishers and account-takeover attempts. A few evidence-based habits can significantly reduce risk.

Go direct; don’t click through emails.

When you receive a benefits message, open a new tab and type the portal URL or use a saved bookmark. Before signing in, confirm you see https:// and the padlock, which indicates an encrypted connection. This simple step sidesteps look-alike phishing pages and protects credentials in transit (CISA, 2025; FTC, n.d.).

Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA).

MFA adds a second proof of identity (e.g., an app code or security key) so a stolen password alone cannot unlock your account. Federal guidance consistently recommends enabling MFA on email, benefits, and financial portals; where available, prefer phishing-resistant methods (e.g., FIDO security keys or passkeys) (CISA, 2025; HHS OCR, 2023).

Use long, unique passwords (or passphrases) and a password manager.

Reused or short passwords let one breach cascade into others. NIST’s digital identity guidelines emphasize allowing users to create long passphrases and encourage the use of password managers to maintain uniqueness across accounts (Grassi et al., 2020).

Avoid sensitive logins on public Wi-Fi.

Café or airport networks can expose traffic to eavesdropping. If you must connect, use a personal hotspot or trusted VPN, and always verify the lock icon/https before entering credentials (FTC, n.d.).

Keep software current.

Updates patch known vulnerabilities actively exploited by attackers. Make it a habit to update your device and browser before visiting benefits sites; automatic updates reduce the chance you’ll forget (CISA, 2025).

Slow down on “urgent” messages.

Phishing often uses urgency (“Your benefits were suspended—click now”). Red flags include generic greetings, mismatched sender addresses, or unexpected attachments. When in doubt, don’t click; report to IT and visit the site directly via a known URL (CISA, 2025; HHS OCR, 2024).

Treat health portals like online banking.

HIPAA security guidance highlights MFA, secure remote access, and ongoing risk analysis to protect electronic protected health information (ePHI). Even outside HIPAA-covered settings, applying these safeguards to your insurer, HSA/FSA, and retirement portals is prudent (HHS OCR, 2023; HHS, 2024).

If something looks off:

  1. Stop before entering your password.
  2. Screenshot and forward to Help.Desk@kzoo.edu.
  3. For benefits-account concerns, contact HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu and/or the vendor using a verified phone number or URL.

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month wraps up, make your benefits logins the safest places you visit online: go direct, use MFA, favor long unique passphrases, avoid risky networks, keep software updated, and report suspicious messages. These habits take seconds—and can prevent hours of recovery later.

References

Health Literacy Month — Your Bridge into Open Enrollment

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Health Literacy Month is about more than reading medical terms—it’s about having the confidence, skills, and tools to make informed choices. That makes Week 4 the perfect on-ramp to Open Enrollment. A little clarity now can save money, stress, and time when it’s time to pick your 2026 benefits.

What “health literacy” really means.

Health literacy isn’t just a patient trait; it’s also how clearly information is designed and delivered. When plan documents, provider portals, and pharmacy tools use plain language, everyone makes better decisions. Your goal this week: turn complex benefits lingo into actionable steps.

Decode your core documents.

Start with the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) for each plan you’re considering.

Focus on:

  • Total cost picture: premium (what you pay each paycheck) + expected out-of-pocket costs.
  • Deductible, copays, coinsurance: what triggers each, and for which services.
  • Out-of-pocket maximum: your financial “ceiling” for the year.
  • Network rules: which hospitals, clinics, therapists, and specialists are “in-network.” Staying in-network is the fastest way to reduce surprise bills.
Use last year to plan next year.

Pull a quick snapshot of your 2025 healthcare use: office visits, urgent care/ER, therapy, prescriptions, imaging, and any upcoming procedures. Then ask:
Will these continue in 2026?
Are your current providers in the new plan’s network?
Do your current medications appear on the plan’s formulary (and at what tier)?
Do you anticipate life changes (adding a dependent, new diagnosis, surgery, or more mental health visits) that could shift your costs?

Translate features into choices.

Preventive care: Confirm annual physicals, vaccines, mammograms, and other screenings are covered at $0 when in-network.
Primary vs. specialty care: If you see specialists often, compare coinsurance and referral requirements.
Behavioral health & telehealth: Check visit limits, copays, and whether your preferred platform is covered.
Pharmacy: Look for mail-order savings, 90-day fills, and preferred pharmacies to cut costs.
HSAs/FSAs: If your plan is HSA-eligible, consider funding it for tax savings and future care; for FSAs, set a realistic election based on last year’s spending.

Make information work for you.

Plain-language summary: Write a one-page “benefits cheat sheet” for yourself with your plan name, deductible, copays, OOP max, and key phone numbers/links.
Teach-back (for yourself): Could you explain your plan to a friend in under two minutes? If not, circle the confusing parts and call the plan’s member services.
Portal power: Log in now, update contact info, turn on two-step verification, and bookmark cost-estimator and provider-search tools.
Ask three: Before enrolling, ask: (1) What will I pay for my typical care? (2) Are my doctors and meds covered? (3) What’s my worst-case OOP cost?

A five-step checklist for this week
  • Download SBCs for your plan options.
  • List your 2026 likely visits, therapies, and meds.
  • Confirm provider networks and drug tiers.
  • Compare total costs (premium + expected care).
  • Decide on HSA/FSA amounts and note deadlines.

Health literacy is a practice, not a personality trait. By turning plan language into a clear, personal game plan, you set yourself up for a confident—and cost-smart—Open Enrollment.

Reference

  1. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (n.d.). Health literacy in Healthy People 2030. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://health.gov/our-work/healthy-people/healthy-people-2030/health-literacy

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Screening Reminders & Support for Survivors

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

October is a timely moment to put our health first. Breast cancer caught early is more treatable, and national guidance has recently shifted to make screening more consistent and accessible.

Who should get screened—and when?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) now recommends that people at average risk begin screening mammography at age 40, every other year through age 74. This 2024 update responds to rising diagnoses in people in their 40s and aims to reduce mortality, especially among Black women, who face higher death rates. If you’re 40–74 and at average risk, talk with your clinician about getting (or staying) on a biennial schedule. Those with higher-than-average risk (e.g., certain gene variants, strong family history, prior high-dose chest radiation) should discuss earlier or additional screening with their providers.

How does this compare with other guidance?

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that people ages 40–44 may choose annual mammography; ages 45–54 should get annual mammograms; and ages 55+ may continue annual screening or switch to every two years as long as they are in good health and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. If you previously followed ACS’s annual schedule, it’s reasonable to continue—what matters most is that you and your clinician align on a plan that fits your risk and preferences.

Why mammograms—and what should I expect?

For most people of screening age, mammograms are the best tool to find cancer early, before it’s large enough to feel or cause symptoms; regular screening lowers the risk of dying from breast cancer. Expect brief compression that can be uncomfortable, but it typically lasts only moments. Scheduling shortly after your period may reduce tenderness.

Know the warning signs between screenings.

Contact your primary care provider or clinician if you notice a new lump, swelling, skin dimpling or irritation, nipple changes (inversion, discharge, or pain), redness/flaking, a change in breast size/shape, or pain that doesn’t go away. Screening is vital, but knowing your baseline—and speaking up when something is different—matters too.

Benefits resources

Kalamazoo College provides a rich, comprehensive benefits package to help you stay healthy and well—but it only helps if you use it. Leveraging your benefits can save you money, and in some cases, save your life.

  • Preventive screenings at no cost: Screening mammograms are covered at 100% on both the Black and Orange medical plans (when billed as preventive care and using in-network providers).
  • $50 screening reward: Earn a $50 reward for mammograms when you enroll in ASR’s Healthcare Choices + Rewards program and schedule with a provider marked by the green trophy. (Program terms apply. Please click on the link for more information)
  • Support for you and your family: If you’re caring for someone with a diagnosis—or navigating your own treatment—contact our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling, caregiver resources, and referrals.
Support for survivors and those in treatment.

Life after a breast cancer diagnosis involves medical follow-up and whole-person support. Survivorship care plans help you track appointments, late effects, and healthy lifestyle goals; reputable tools and guidance are available through the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and American Cancer Society. Peer communities like Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) offer helplines and online groups to connect you with trained volunteers and others who understand the journey. Consider sharing these resources with a colleague or loved one.

What to do this month
  • If you’re 40+ and due (or never started), book a screening mammogram.
  • If you’re at higher risk, ask your clinician about an individualized plan.
  • If you’re a survivor, request a written survivorship care plan and share it with all your providers.
  • Share vetted resources with friends and family; your encouragement can make the difference in someone scheduling their screening.

Early detection saves lives. Whether you are scheduling your first mammogram, staying on track with regular screenings, or navigating life after treatment, you’re not alone—and support is available.

References

  1. American Cancer Society. (2023, November 1). American Cancer Society guidelines for the early detection of cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/screening/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.html
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, September 16). Screening for breast cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/screening/index.html
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, September 11). About mammograms. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/about/mammograms.html
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, July 30). Symptoms of breast cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/symptoms/index.html
  5. Living Beyond Breast Cancer. (n.d.). Breast Cancer Helpline. https://www.lbbc.org/community/breast-cancer-helpline
  6. National Cancer Institute. (2024, December 2). Follow-up medical care for cancer survivors. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/survivorship/follow-up-care
  7. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2024, April 30). Final recommendation statement: Screening for breast cancer. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/announcements/final-recommendation-statement-screening-breast-cancer-0
  8. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2024). Recommendation: Breast cancer: Screening. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening

Mental Health Screening & Depression Awareness: Why Early Action Matters

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Week 2 (October 6–12) is dedicated to Mental Health Screening & Depression Awareness, with National Depression Screening Day taking place on October 9. This week serves as a critical reminder that just as we schedule annual physical exams, we should also prioritize mental health check-ins.

Why Mental Health Screenings Matter

Mental health conditions are far more common than many realize. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2023), nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness. Depression alone affects an estimated 21 million American adults annually, making it one of the most prevalent mental health challenges (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2022).

Unlike physical health conditions, depression can be harder to detect. Symptoms often include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep or appetite. Left unaddressed, depression can impact work performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. In severe cases, it may increase the risk of suicide. Early detection is key to preventing escalation and supporting recovery.

Mental health screenings are confidential, brief questionnaires that help identify symptoms of depression and related conditions. While they are not diagnostic tools, they can serve as a first step in recognizing when professional help may be needed. Much like a blood pressure test signals whether someone should seek further evaluation, screenings provide valuable insight into whether follow-up care could be beneficial.

The Role of Awareness and Stigma Reduction

Despite progress in recent years, stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to seeking help. Too often, individuals dismiss their symptoms as “stress” or believe they must “tough it out.” Campaigns like National Depression Screening Day aim to break down those barriers by normalizing conversations around mental health and encouraging people to treat it as seriously as physical health.

Raising awareness within our communities—whether at work, at home, or among friends—creates a supportive environment where people feel less alone. Sharing resources, promoting open dialogue, and highlighting the benefits of early action are powerful ways to foster resilience.

Depression in the Workplace

The workplace is often where symptoms of depression become visible. The World Health Organization (WHO, 2022) estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. For employees, depression can manifest as missed deadlines, frequent absences, or difficulty engaging with colleagues.

Employers play an important role by offering education, supportive policies, and access to care. Initiatives such as flexible scheduling, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and comprehensive health benefits can help you navigate your mental health journey without fear of stigma or penalty.

Maximize Our Benefits

Kalamazoo College provides a robust Employee Assistance Program in which all employees receive access to six (6) free sessions with a licensed counselor. Should you like to learn more about the program or use any of its resources, please click the link provided above.

Additionally, employees enrolled in our health plans may access inpatient and outpatient benefits with copayments as low as $10.00 (Orange plan) and $25 (Black plan).  Copayments, Coinsurance and Deductibles on our mental health and substance abuse services match our medical plan equivalent, so there are no surprise prices when you need care.

In addition to health benefits, the College provide wellness programs and initiatives on a periodic basis with the goal of creating a resilient, vibrant and health community. Please click the link provided above to learn more about how you may participate or become involved.

Act This October

As we recognize Mental Health Screening & Depression Awareness Week, here are a few ways to engage and support your well-being:

  • Take a Screening: Online and in-person screenings are widely available. Mental Health America and other organizations offer free, confidential assessments.
  • Talk to Someone: If you notice symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional.
  • Use Your Benefits: Schedule an appointment with a counselor, therapist, or primary care provider to discuss your mental health needs. Kalamazoo College employees can also use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and health plan benefits for support.
  • Attend a Wellness Event: Take part in Mindful Mondays or other campus wellness activities to prioritize your mental health during the workday.
  • Spread Awareness: Share resources in your workplace, community, or on social media to help others access support.

Mental health is health. By prioritizing screenings, reducing stigma, and making full use of available benefits, we can create a culture of care that empowers individuals to seek help early and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

References
  1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Mental illness. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/
  3. World Health Organization. (2022). Mental health in the workplace: Information sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-in-the-workplace
  4. Mental Health America. (n.d.). Take a mental health test. https://screening.mhanational.org/