June Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month: Promoting Brain Health and Compassionate Support

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Each June, Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder of the importance of brain health and the profound impact that Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias have on individuals, families, and communities. Organized to increase awareness, foster education, and inspire action, this observance empowers us to reflect not only on the challenges faced by those affected but also on what we can do to promote cognitive well-being throughout our lives.

This month holds personal significance for me as a caregiver to a parent living with vascular dementia. I’ve seen firsthand how cognitive decline affects not only the individual but also the entire support system around them. The emotional toll, the ongoing adjustments, and the uncertainty of progression can be overwhelming. That’s why I’m especially grateful for the support systems in place, including our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Behavioral Health Systems, which offers confidential counseling and resources for those navigating caregiving, stress, or grief. More information can be found at hr.kzoo.edu/current-employees/eap.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions. According to the Alzheimer’s Association (2024), more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and that number is expected to rise as the population ages. Despite its prevalence, the disease is often misunderstood, and stigma can prevent individuals and caregivers from seeking help or discussing their experiences.

Beyond Alzheimer’s, there are many other brain-related conditions that deserve attention, including Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injury. These conditions affect millions and can significantly reduce quality of life. That’s why this month isn’t just about one disease—it’s about recognizing the vital role of brain health in our overall well-being.

Fortunately, research suggests there are proactive steps we can take to support cognitive health. These include regular physical activity (check out our Fitness Class Schedules), a nutritious diet (join Health Way), adequate sleep (aim for 8 hours daily), social engagement (we have tons of way to be in community on campus. Keep your eyes and ears open for events all summer), and mental stimulation (my mom and I like using Lumosity for mind games and exercises). Managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol also plays a significant role in reducing risk (National Institute on Aging, 2023).

In alignment with this month’s message, let us commit to lifelong learning, compassion for those affected, and advocacy for continued research and support. Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month invites us to care more deeply—for our brains, our loved ones, and our communities.

References

  1. Alzheimer’s Association. (2024). 2024 Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures
  2. National Institute on Aging. (2023, September 13). Cognitive health and older adults. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults
  3. Clinical Advisor. (n.d.). Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. https://www.clinicaladvisor.com/home/topics/neurology-information-center/alzheimers-disease/alzheimers-brain-awareness-month/
  4. Kalamazoo College Human Resources. (n.d.). Employee Assistance Program (EAP). https://hr.kzoo.edu/current-employees/eap/

Promoting a Culture of Prevention: The Importance of National Safety Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Every June, the National Safety Council (NSC) leads the charge in recognizing National Safety Month, a critical campaign focused on preventing injuries and saving lives. From workplaces and roadways to homes and communities, this monthlong observance emphasizes the importance of safety awareness and proactive risk reduction. Unintentional injuries are the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, yet many of these incidents are preventable through education, planning, and behavioral changes (NSC, 2024).

National Safety Month is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and institutions to pause and evaluate their safety practices. Each week of the month typically spotlights a different theme, such as emergency preparedness, fall prevention, roadway safety, and workplace hazard identification. These focal points are not random—they reflect the leading sources of injuries and fatalities in our communities.

In the workplace, safety is not just a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), over 5,000 fatal work injuries occurred in 2022 alone. Implementing regular safety training, maintaining proper equipment, and fostering a culture of open communication can significantly reduce such risks. We are encouraged to engage each other in identifying hazards and to participate wellness programs that also address mental health, fatigue, and stress—common contributors to workplace accidents. For instance, consider joining us during Mindful Mondays or practice mindfulness routinely as a means to remain refreshed and productive throughout the day.

Beyond the workplace, National Safety Month encourages vigilance in our daily lives. For example, falls are a major cause of injury among older adults, but they can often be prevented by improving lighting, removing tripping hazards, and promoting balance exercises. Similarly, distracted driving (let’s focus on being present during the commute) and failure to wear seat belts are still widespread behaviors that result in thousands of avoidable deaths each year. Public service campaigns, community events, and educational outreach during June aim to equip individuals with life-saving information and resources.

Parents and caregivers also play a vital role in promoting safety at home. From securing furniture to installing smoke alarms and keeping medications out of reach, small actions can make a big difference.

Employee Resources and Support

Kalamazoo College provides a comprehensive resource page dedicated to workplace injury prevention and safety information. The page, available at https://hr.kzoo.edu/workplace-injury-and-safety-information/, serves as a central hub where employees can access important guidance on reporting workplace injuries, understanding safety protocols, and learning about preventive measures. It also offers contact information for HR and Campus Safety along with links to training opportunities to foster a safer work environment for all. We are always looking for more information to add to this page. If you have suggestions, please send them to HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu.

Ultimately, National Safety Month is a call to action—a reminder that safety doesn’t happen by accident. It takes collective effort, sustained attention, and a willingness to adapt. Whether you’re a facilities management staff member replacing a light bulb, an office coordinator carrying a heavy box from the Mail Center or a parent teaching your child to look both ways before crossing the street, your efforts matter. Let’s be not weary in well doing! By participating in National Safety Month, we contribute to a national culture of care and prevention, helping ensure everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and play safely.

References
National Safety Council. (2024). National Safety Month. https://www.nsc.org/workplace/national-safety-month
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). National census of fatal occupational injuries in 2022. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cfoi.pdf
Kalamazoo College Human Resources. (n.d.). Workplace injury and safety information. https://hr.kzoo.edu/workplace-injury-and-safety-information/

Men’s Health Month: Promoting Awareness and Early Intervention

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

June is recognized as Men’s Health Month, a national observance aimed at raising awareness about the health issues men face and encouraging proactive health management. This initiative emphasizes the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of diseases affecting men, particularly conditions that often go undiagnosed or untreated due to stigma, lack of awareness, or societal norms. Among these, mental health challenges remain one of the most pressing and under-discussed issues in men’s healthcare.

Physical Health Concerns

Men are statistically more likely to face a range of serious health conditions compared to women, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2022), heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States, followed closely by cancer. Despite these alarming statistics, men are significantly less likely to visit a doctor regularly or seek medical help when symptoms arise.

Preventive care plays a critical role in reducing these risks. Routine screenings for cholesterol levels, blood pressure, colon and prostate cancer, and diabetes can lead to early detection and improved outcomes. For example, prostate cancer—one of the most common cancers in men—can be effectively managed when detected early through screenings such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test (American Cancer Society, 2023).

Did you know that both our Black and Orange plans cover preventative care at 100%. Consider reaching out to your health care provider to schedule your preventative screenings and stay on top of your physical health!

The Mental Health Crisis Among Men

While physical health often takes center stage, mental health is an equally critical part of overall well-being—and one that’s too often overlooked. Men, in particular, are less likely to be diagnosed with depression or anxiety. This isn’t necessarily because they experience these conditions less frequently, but rather because they are less likely to seek help.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2023), men may express symptoms of depression in ways that differ from traditional expectations—such as through irritability, anger, or substance misuse—making these signs harder to recognize and diagnose.

A significant barrier is the lingering stigma around mental health, especially for men. Cultural norms that equate masculinity with emotional stoicism can discourage vulnerability and prevent individuals from accessing the support they need. The consequences are sobering: suicide rates among men remain significantly higher than among women, particularly among middle-aged and older men (CDC, 2022).

Changing this narrative requires a cultural shift—one that encourages open, judgment-free conversations about mental health and empowers people, regardless of gender, to seek help.

To support this shift, Kalamazoo College has expanded its partnership with Behavioral Health Systems to enhance our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). All employees, regardless of benefits eligibility, now have access to six (6) free sessions for a wide range of concerns—including mental health, substance use, autism support services, elder care, and even financial planning assistance.

Additionally, starting July 1, 2025, in-network mental health services will be available with no copayment, making care more accessible and affordable for all.

Your mental health matters—help is here, and you don’t have to face challenges alone.

Encouraging Engagement and Prevention

Men’s Health Month provides an important opportunity to educate men and their families about preventable health problems and to encourage early detection and treatment. Healthcare providers, employers, and community organizations are encouraged to engage men in conversations about their health through events, screenings, wellness programs, and educational materials.

As an employer, we play a pivotal role by promoting mental wellness in the workplace, offering employee assistance programs (EAPs), and creating an environment where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. Families and partners can also support by encouraging men to schedule regular checkups and by being aware of signs of mental or physical distress.

Conclusion

Raising awareness during Men’s Health Month is more than just a symbolic gesture—it’s a critical public health initiative. By spotlighting both physical and mental health issues, Men’s Health Month encourages men to take charge of their well-being, engage in preventive care, and seek timely treatment. Reducing stigma, increasing access to care, and fostering open dialogue are essential to improving health outcomes and saving lives. What is one small action you can do today to improve your health outcomes?

References

American Cancer Society. (2023). Prostate cancer early detection. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Leading causes of death—Males—All races and origins—United States, 2019. https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/lcod/index.htm

National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Men and mental health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health

Prioritizing You This June: How to Celebrate Professional Wellness Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

June is Professional Wellness Month, a time for all of us to take a step back and focus on our overall well-being. Whether you’re working on campus, remotely, or in a hybrid setting, this month is about more than just your job performance—it’s about your health and happiness at work.

What Is Professional Wellness?

Professional wellness means feeling balanced, supported, and fulfilled in your job—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. It’s about building strong relationships with coworkers, practicing healthy habits, and creating boundaries that support your well-being. According to the NWF Health Network, celebrating this month includes making positive changes like choosing healthier snacks, standing more during the day, and engaging in workplace connections that bring joy and support.

Mental and Emotional Health: Your Foundation

Mental and emotional wellness are at the heart of how we show up at work each day. If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected, it’s okay—and important—to acknowledge it. You can take small steps like:

  • Talking to a trusted coworker, mentor, or a professional using our free employee assistance program (EAP) benefit
  • Using your paid time-off without guilt
  • Practicing mindfulness during breaks (even 5 minutes helps!)
  • Journaling or checking in with yourself emotionally

Remember, healthy communication and asking for support isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. When you take care of your mind first, everything else becomes more manageable.

Social Wellness: Relationships Matter

A big part of wellness is the people around you. Positive work relationships can improve your job satisfaction and reduce stress. This month, challenge yourself to:

  • Reach out to a colleague you don’t usually talk to
  • Join a committee or group at work, like a wellness or engagement team
  • Say “thank you” more often—gratitude creates connection
  • Eat lunch with someone instead of alone at your desk (when possible)

The NWF Health Network points out that social connections can actually improve your physical and mental health, so building community at work is worth the effort (NWF Health Network, 2024).

Karnival 2024
Your Physical Health Deserves Attention Too

Let’s be honest—work can be sedentary. But movement, nutrition, and hydration are essential, even during a busy day. Try these quick wellness wins:

  • Use a standing desk or stretch once an hour
  • Bring healthier snacks or plan balanced meals
  • Set a water reminder to stay hydrated
  • Walk during meetings or breaks

Even small changes can have a big impact on your energy levels and focus. Your body will thank you!

Taking Ownership of Your Wellness

This month is a great time to reflect: What’s working for you, and what’s draining you? Think about what boundaries or habits you might need to protect your wellness. That could mean saying “no” to non-essential tasks, taking a real lunch break, or building time into your calendar for self-care.

Wellness Is a Team Effort

While the College plays a role in offering benefits and resources, you are your best advocate. Use this month to explore what resources are available—like wellness challenges, employee assistance programs (EAPs), or staff social events—and actually make use of them.

If your team doesn’t have a strong wellness culture yet, consider being the spark. You might be surprised at how many of your colleagues are craving the same support and balance.

Final Thought

Professional Wellness Month is about one thing: you. Your health, your happiness, your peace of mind. Take the time to check in with yourself, build better habits, and connect more meaningfully with those around you. Because when you feel good, you do good—in life, at work and everywhere else.

References
NWF Health Network. (2024). Professional Wellness Month. Retrieved from https://nwfhealth.org/professional-wellness-month/
NWF Health Network. (2024). June is Professional Wellness Month. Retrieved from https://nwfhealth.org/june-is-profession-wellness-month/

Caring for Our Community: Celebrating National Employee Wellness Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

At Kalamazoo College, our mission is to prepare graduates to lead in a complex and diverse world—but we know that mission begins with taking care of our faculty and staff. This June, we join organizations nationwide in recognizing National Employee Wellness Month, an opportunity to reflect on how we support the holistic well-being of our campus community.

As a member of the Wellness Committee, I’m excited to help champion initiatives that uplift the whole person—not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and financially. When we take care of each other, we strengthen the foundation of everything we do as a college.

The Importance of Holistic Well-Being

Holistic wellness is a multi-dimensional approach that acknowledges that health isn’t just about preventing illness. It’s about creating an environment where every member of our community can thrive. Research supports this approach. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2021) reports that workplace wellness programs can help reduce health risks, increase productivity, and improve quality of life.

Key Focus Areas for Employee Wellness Month
  1. Physical Wellness
    We encourage everyone to take small steps to move more throughout the day. Whether it’s a lunchtime walk, attending a fitness class, or simply stretching at your desk, physical activity supports long-term health. If scheduling presents a problem, consider speaking with your supervisor regarding our flexible scheduling policy that can allow you to participate in our wellness programming.
  2. Mental and Emotional Health
    Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers all employees free, confidential support for stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2019), the global impact of mental health issues on workplace productivity is enormous—making it vital to address this area proactively. Consider prioritizing mindfulness and emotional resilience by attending one of our Mindful Monday sessions.
  3. Financial Wellness
    The American Psychological Association (2023) identifies financial stress as a leading contributor to overall well-being concerns. With rising financial stress across the country, we’re committed to helping employees build financial confidence. Consider signing up for one of our monthly retirement planning sessions with TIAA, attending a financial webinar or viewing the On-demand Personal Finance 101 video, sponsored by One Digital, a Kalamazoo College partner.
Beyond June: A Year-Round Commitment

Wellness doesn’t stop at the end of the month—it’s something we’re working to embed into our campus culture every day. From flexible scheduling to supportive policies, we’re striving to ensure that Kalamazoo College is a place where faculty and staff feel respected, supported, and empowered to live healthy lives.

If you have ideas, questions, or would like to get involved with future wellness initiatives, please don’t hesitate to reach out to HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu. Let’s take care of each other as we continue creating a more inclusive and supportive campus community—together.

References

American Psychological Association. (2023). Stress in America 2023. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2023/report

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Workplace health promotion. https://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/index.html

World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health in the workplace. https://www.who.int/mental_health/in_the_workplace/en/