Take care of yourself with these tips & resources
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Protect your health with a heart smart lifestyle:
- Know your numbers. As a State Health Plan member, your annual physical performed by an in-network provider is covered 100%. Be sure to stay on top of your health by knowing your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose (or A1c) values. State Health Plan members can receive a free wellness check at the 2025 Total WellBeing Expo from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Be active. Strive for five 30-minute periods of moderate exercise and two days of strength training each week at home, outdoors or at your favorite gym. Campus Recreation offers many fitness opportunities, including free on-demand fitness classes and an affordable employee membership for just $20 a month.
- Eat smart. Learn how to eat a healthier diet with the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less online weight management program. This 15-week series is offered at no cost to you with code GNC2025. Evening sessions are available starting Monday, March 3. If you’re looking for a more personalized nutrition plan, State Health Plan members ages 6 and older can enjoy nutrition with an in-network dietitian in an office, urgent care, outpatient facility or virtually at no cost.
- De-stress. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. Schedule quiet moments into your day. Participate in 15-20-minute live, virtual mediation sessions offered throughout the week. Choose from monthly Mindful Mondays and Inhaling Positivity sessions held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week.
- Prioritize sleep! Strive for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Learn more about the importance of sleep as an essential component of health and well-being.
- If you smoke, quit or reduce how much you smoke. Not using tobacco is the best thing you can do for your heart and overall health. In-person counseling is available through your primary care provider or behavioral therapist for all State Health Plan members. Both the 70/30 and 80/20 plans cover a variety of nicotine replacement therapy patches, gum and lozenges. Learn how to increase your quit success at the UNC Tobacco Treatment Program. Make this year, the year you become nicotine-free.
- Smile often. Smiling relieves stress and improves your overall mood — even the mood of those around you! Learn how using kindness can help us achieve personal success and happiness.
Stay aware of your health and don’t ignore signs and symptoms of a heart attack or stroke. Call 911 immediately!
Show your support by using a Wear Red virtual background throughout the month.