Wellness & Prevention

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Here are tips for having a healthy body and mind, with everything from stress relief and self-care to preventive care, health screenings, and more.

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5 Tips to Avoid Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

As the weather gets colder and the days grow shorter, many people suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Here are a few tips to combat the “seasonal blues” and keep your mental health on track.

Protect Yourself with the Flu shot Blog

Protect Yourself (and Others) With a Flu Shot

By Sandra Rivera-Luciano, MD, MHSA

As flu season approaches, you’re likely looking for ways to help keep you and your loved ones healthy. Getting your annual flu vaccine is a simple and effective preventive measure you can take to limit your risk of getting the flu. Here’s why the flu vaccine can be a powerful tool this season.

Healthcare professional giving a patient a preventative vaccination.

COVID-19, Flu, and RSV – What You Need To Know

It’s important to understand how you can protect yourself.

Man sitting at office desk dealing with mental stress

Burn-out: A New Kind of Stress

The symptoms of burn-out often overlap with symptoms of typical job-related stress, which can make it difficult to determine which one you’re dealing with.

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Heart Disease and Black American Women

Did you know that death from heart disease is more common among Black American women than white women?

Family prepares to watch a movie and eat popcorn together.

5 Healthy Food Swaps You Should Try (And Why)

Keeping healthy and being mindful of the food you eat can be an incredible challenge.

A young man in the rustic kitchen preparing and serving healthy dessert. Pumpkin with cinnamon and honey.

6 Tips to Avoid Overeating This Holiday Season

By Dr. Julie Patel-Pannullo

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Last-Minute Prep for the New York Marathon

Debunking common misconceptions

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Asthma vs. Seasonal Allergies

What's the connection?

COPD: What You Need to Know to Breathe Easy

Did you know that over 15 million Americans have been diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

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Vaccination: Your Best Defense Against the Flu (and COVID-19)

Do your part to help protect yourself and those around you.

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What You Need to Know About Breast Health

When it comes to reducing the risk of cancer, early detection can change breast health outcomes.

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Too Hot to Handle: Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses

As temperatures continue to climb, it’s important to be aware of the health risks associated with extreme heat.

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Understanding Depression in Men

Did you know the signs, symptoms, and even the coping methods of depression can be different for men? Learn what to look for and how to get support when you need it.

Guys – We Need To Talk…

Some men tend to keep quiet when it comes to medical concerns. But regular preventive care can help find issues sooner and give men more control over their health.

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8 Tips for Safe Swimming

Ocean, lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams – Connecticut has them all. Just be sure to keep these water safety tips in mind.

how to manage your asthma the action plan you may need

How To Manage Your Asthma: The Action Plan You May Need

Do you or your child feel like your chest is too tight? Are wheezing and a cough keeping you up at night? Those may be signs your asthma is not under control.

Doing for Others Does You Good

Extra time on your hands? Do some good with it! Share your skills and passions with others through volunteer work. You’ll not only help them; you’ll help yourself, too.

8 tips prevent back pain

8 Tips to Prevent Back Pain

Can’t bend over to tie your shoes? Icing your back so you can sit at your desk? If you have lower back pain, you have company.

Understanding Endometriosis

Learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatments for endometriosis.

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Self-Care Is Not Selfish – It’s Necessary

When you empty a glass of water, there’s nothing left to drink. The same is true of your time and energy. Self-care helps you “refill your cup” so you don’t run dry.

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Fighting Caution Fatigue: Continue To Stand Strong Against COVID-19

Why you still need to be vigilant, regardless of the vaccines.

Man exercising with stretching band at home with a digital tablet. Mid adult man using an elastic rubber band following a tutorial online and exercise at home during isolation for Covid - 19 at home.

New Year, Better Health: How to Stick with A Healthy Habit

Want to live healthier but not sure where to start? Read more for tips to help you stick with a new healthy habit this year and beyond.

Winter Storm Tips for Family Caregivers

Being ready for a winter storm is especially important for caregivers who are responsible for their loved ones. Here are some things that you can do to be prepared.

Reminder for Caregivers: Care for Yourself, Too

Daily life can get busy with work, errands, and family needs. If you’re a caregiver, the demands may seem overwhelming.

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What Should You Do if You Find a Breast Lump?

For National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, we want to remind men and women of the importance of getting checked by your physician and of checking your own body.

Flu vs. Cold vs. COVID-19: What You Need to Know

By Wayne Rawlins, MD, MBA

Flu season is here. The coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to remain a threat. So, what should you do if you feel ill and wonder, “Is it the flu, a cold, or COVID-19?”

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Standing Tall: Yoga for Better Posture

Feeling hunched over? See how yoga can help you relieve back strain and improve posture.

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Make Time for Your Mental Health

Caring for your mental health is more important than ever before. But some people may feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable talking about their mental well-being.

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How to Make the Most of Doctor Visits

A little prep work before a doctor’s appointment can help you maximize your time and make sure you get your questions answered.

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More Than a Sunburn: Understanding Sun Poisoning

A little fun in the sun can be great. Too much can make you sick. You may have memories of a painful sunburn, but how much do you know about sun poisoning?

Sunshine – Good or Bad for Your Health?

The answer to that question is tricky. Too much sun can damage your skin and even cause skin cancer. But your body benefits from the sun, too.

Keeping an Eye on Your Vision Health

Your eyes are an important, but often overlooked, part of your overall health. Learn what you can do to help protect your vision.

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What You Need To Know About Lyme Disease

Spending more time outdoors? Check out these tips for how to help prevent tick bites and Lyme disease.

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Help to Manage Social Anxiety

The isolation of social distancing may have caused or enhanced feelings of social anxiety. Learn how to identify it and help manage your symptoms.

Adults: Stay Up-to-Date on Your Immunizations

By Wayne Rawlins, MD, MBA

When you hear “vaccines,” you probably think of children. But vaccines protect adults, too.

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Don’t Be Fooled: How To Avoid COVID-19 Vaccine Scammers

Eagerly awaiting your COVID-19 vaccine? Stay safe against potential scams that could harm your health and your wallet.

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Let’s Talk About Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is on the rise. Here’s some background on symptoms, prediabetes, and what you can do to help lower your risk of type 2 diabetes.

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Getting Back To Exercise After a Case of COVID-19

Even if you've only had a mild case of COVID-19, doctors suggest a slow return to physical activity.

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What You Need To Know About Colon Cancer

The key to fighting colon cancer is prevention and early detection. Learn what to look for and why you should talk to your doctor immediately if you have symptoms.

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Finding Better Health Through Happiness

Your mind plays a major role in your overall health. With a strong mind-body connection, you’ll find it easier to make healthier choices and strike a balance for your mental and physical wellness.

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My COVID-19 Vaccine Experience

By Leon E. Kurtz, MD

One doctor shares how he felt getting the COVID-19 vaccine, and why you shouldn’t hesitate when it is available to you.

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How To Get Ready for Your Virtual Doctor Visit

Telemedicine (or telehealth) can bring a doctor to you when you can’t go to the office. Here are some tips to help you get the most from the visit.

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Doing All You Can? Not if You Don’t Get a Flu Shot.

You’re washing your hands, wearing a mask, and practicing social distancing to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). That’s great -- but you should still get a flu shot.

Flu Season Looms

Flu Season Looms in the Shadow of COVID-19. Have You Gotten Your Flu Shot?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has shined a light on this fact: healthier people are often better able to battle disease. This year, more than ever, doctors say you should get a flu shot between now and early November.

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Safety First: What You Should Keep in Mind As Businesses Reopen

Ready to get out? Businesses and services will reopen over the coming weeks and months. But our fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues.

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Feeling Restless? Ideas To Help Pass the Time

The longer you stay inside, the harder it may be to find things to do. If you need help filling the gaps in your days, here are some fun things to try at home.

Keeping heart healthy

Beyond Diet & Exercise: Doing More for Heart Health

You know regular exercise and eating well can help keep your heart healthy. But what else can you do to keep it pumping strong?

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7 Not-So-Secret Ways To Keep Your Heart Healthy

The heart beats about 2.5 billion times over the average lifetime, pumping blood and a steady flow of oxygen throughout your body.1

Vaping Have You Worried?

News of the first confirmed death and nearly 200 cases of severe lung disease linked to vaping have stirred discussion about the safety of e-cigarettes and how to help those who want to quit.

Setting the Record Straight on Vaccines

By Wayne Rawlins, MD, MBA

Alarmist headlines and outspoken celebrities may have you questioning if you or your children should get vaccinated. You may be wondering, “Are vaccines safe? Do my kids really need them?”

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5 Ways To Improve Your Commute

Connecticut commuters spend a lot of time commuting — 26 minutes on average, according to the U.S. Census Bureau – and mostly in cars.1

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Foot Care 101: Building a Healthy Foundation

You may have heard the expression, “Healthy from head to toe.” But how much effort do you put into caring for your feet?

Work related stress

How To Conquer Work-Related Stress

Does your job stress you out? If so, you’re not alone. The American Institute of Stress says 80% of workers feel stress on the job, and nearly half feel like they need help learning to manage that stress.1

Women and Depression – How Are They Coping?

The world was shocked when fashion designer and businesswoman Kate Spade took her life in June 2018. The tragedy prompted a closer look at women and depression.

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Preventing Childhood Obesity Begins at Home

Healthy eating habits can help children – and their families – fight childhood obesity and have healthier futures. Here’s one pediatrician’s advice on how to nurture those habits.

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What You Need To Know About Colon Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer, or colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States.

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Did You Know… a Dental Checkup May Help Save Your Life?

Let’s be honest – no one looks forward to going to the dentist. But dentists do more than keep your smile looking its best. They may also help save your life.

having a pet may be good for your health

Having a Pet May Be Good for Your Health

They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. It turns out a wagging tail may have some health benefits, too.

What Is Preventive Care?

Your health insurance plan tells you preventive care is free.* You read and hear about the importance of preventive care. But what does that mean?

4 steps visualizing wellness goals

4 steps for visualizing your wellness goals

Do you have wellness goals, but struggle to keep your motivation high? Keep setting the same goals repeatedly, but don’t seem to make much progress?

Keeping Tabs on Diabetes

In honor of American Diabetes Month every November, here are a few important screenings we want everyone who has, or knows someone with, diabetes to know about.

The two BEST ways to prevent the flu

As cold air rushes in and days become shorter, it means flu season has arrived. If you or a loved one has ever gotten the flu, you know how terrible it is.