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IMPORTANT: PHP's FIDA-IDD Demonstration Ending December 31, 2025

Member News

Message from the Medical Director: COVID-19 Update

Message from the Medical Director

An Update on COVID-19

Dear Members, Families, and Friends,

Over the last few months, a number of new forms (also known as “variants”) of COVID-19 virus have appeared in communities across the United States. This has been associated with an increase in the number of people getting sick, and hospitalized, due to COVID-19 infection. .

While the total number of cases remains low, in New York State the number of positive tests has increased 400% since June. Experts are sure this is the beginning of a wave of infections that will continue to increase into the Fall and Winter.

We are keeping track of this but want to make sure the IDD community remains safe. People with IDD, as well as the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses such as lung disease, cancer, heart disease and others, are vulnerable to severe illness, increased risk of hospitalization, and other consequences of COVID-19 infections.

Let’s make sure everyone – people with IDD and those that care for, and about them - is protected and can protect each other.

FIRST, with vaccines that are well-proven to prevent severe illness

Please get a flu vaccine as soon as possible.  The flu and COVID-19 can “look and act alike” and getting a flu vaccine will protect you from a known health risk every Fall and Winter. Care Managers can help ensure you get all the vaccines needed to protect your health.

There will be an updated COVID-19 vaccine that will be available in the Fall, one that will offer protection against some of the new variants. Even if you have not received a booster in the past, you should get this version.

Finally, if you or your loved one is over 60 years of age, talk to your primary care provider about getting the new vaccine against RSV, a virus that can cause severe lung disease in older adults. Last year the rate of hospitalizations for RSV among adults was 10X higher than usual. The RSV vaccine can be given at the same time as the flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

If you have any questions about vaccines, please reach out to your healthcare provider.

AND, with physical precautions

Handwashing, physical distancing, and mask usage are all well-established, easy to use and well proven ways to prevent spread of all respiratory infections. 

Masking remains a personal choice. However, healthcare professionals are increasingly considering a return to masking as a precaution in healthcare and residential settings, like hospitals and nursing homes.  Some experts are suggesting that caregivers for those who are at risk should consider using masks as well. Healthcare settings like clinics and hospitals are also reinforcing the importance of workers – including healthcare professionals like nurses and aides - staying home if they are sick.

FINALLY, with early interventions

If you find yourself with ‘flu-like’ symptoms like fever, cough, headache, or muscle pain, get tested as soon as possible. If you test positive, have mild to moderate symptoms and are in a high-risk group, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist for a medication called Paxlovid. Paxlovid can reduce hospitalization rates by 80% if taken within five days of symptom onset.

People who are positive for COVID-19 should stay home or isolate themselves for at least five (5) days. 

We will keep track of the trends and any changes in recommendations for prevention and treatment. 

Thanks for your attention,


Steven Merahn, MD
Medical Director

References:

New Report Determines Partners Health Plan’s FIDA-IDD Demonstration Shows Positive Impact and Progress for Enrollees with Complex Care Needs

BRONX, NY, July 6, 2022— Partners Health Plan (PHP), a nonprofit managed care organization dedicated to serving individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), is pleased to announce that the results of an independent evaluation funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) indicate positive returns for enrollees in the New York Fully Integrated Duals Advantage for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FIDA-IDD) demonstration.

The FIDA-IDD demonstration is a pilot program established to test the success of delivering services that address the whole person and promote community involvement and independence for people with IDD eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid benefits. According to the findings, PHP is well on its way toward meeting those objectives.

“This is an extremely positive report,” said Kerry Delaney, CEO of PHP, “but also acknowledges in a realistic way the challenges we have faced.” Those challenges stemmed from the newness of managed care for providers in the space, lack of plan coverage awareness for covered entities, and providers’ refusal to participate or offer services to the population just to name a few. Despite these challenges, key findings reflect that if implemented correctly, managed care can be a viable option to serve people with IDD.”

Key Findings:

  • Through the comprehensive “It’s All About Me” (I AM) assessment tool, PHP effectively elicited responses from the IDD population about health and wellness needs allowing enrollees to leverage control over benefit options impacting their everyday lives.
  • Innovative solutions like the pharmacy management program reduced errors, unnecessary emergency department visits, and length of hospital stays. Similarly, the telehealth program successfully resolved 90% of consultations virtually. The rewards incentive program “Choose Health” also received positive feedback for motivating members to achieve preventive health goals.
  • While the new rate payment method has been a challenge to cover certain member populations, like older and frailer members, programs like pharmacy management are viewed as innovative cost-savings strategies.
  • Regularly engaging stakeholders from the Participant Advisory Committee helped to address real-time needs, like improvements to transportation services and communications efforts.

One of the best measures of the impact Partners Health Plan has had on member health and experiences comes from the members themselves. PHP FIDA-IDD plan member, Jessica, stated, “Recently I needed special comprehension therapy for my legs and was able to get something to help me at home. This keeps me healthy and helps my ability to walk. I want to keep my independence. I also have support from my Care Manager and my Broker with my self-direction!”

As the agency responsible for the IDD program in New York State, the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) was integral in the demonstration’s design and implementation. “OPWDD has been pleased to collaborate with Partners Health Plan on the FIDA-IDD program, which has offered people an opportunity to coordinate their health and long-term care services in a new and innovative way,” said OPWDD Commissioner Kerri Neifeld. “We look forward to continuing to work with Partners Health Plan and the larger provider community to ensure quality supports and services are available to NYers with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
Read the full report here: https://innovation.cms.gov/data-and-reports/2022/fai-ny-fida-idd-prelim-firstsecondevalrpt.

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About Partners Health Plan: Partners Health Plan (PHP) is the first-in-the-nation, provider-led managed care organization that fully integrates Medicare and Medicaid for individuals 21 years and older with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD), so they have the most complete care package. PHP provides person-centered care for whole-person wellness addressing the physical, behavioral, and social needs of individuals to assist them in living a quality life. The plan operates in 4 New York State regions (nine downstate counties): New York City, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk counties), Rockland County, and Westchester County. For more information, visit www.phpcares.org.

About CMS Financial Alignment Initiative: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) created the Medicare-Medicaid Financial Alignment Initiatives (FAI) Demonstrations to test in partnership with States integrated care models for dually eligible beneficiaries with the goal to improve care for dually eligible beneficiaries and reduce program costs through an aligned financial and person-centered care coordination structure. A longstanding barrier to coordinating care for Medicare-Medicaid enrollees has been the financial misalignment between Medicare and Medicaid. For more information, visit Financial Alignment Initiative (FAI) | CMS.

 

Nutrition Tips for 2023

It’s easy to feel bombarded by the latest healthy eating trend or buzzworthy ingredient. But good nutrition is really about consistently choosing healthy foods and beverages. With healthy eating patterns, it’s possible to enjoy food and beverages that reflect your preferences, cultural traditions, and budgetary considerations.

Tips for a healthy diet in 2023: 

  • Bump up your Fiber intake
  • Increase Calcium and Vitamin D 
  • Add more Potassium **People with chronic kidney disease and people taking certain medications may have too much potassium in their blood, speak with your doctor before making a change to your Potassium intake**
  • Limit added Sugars
  • Replace Saturated Fats
  • Cut back on Sodium
  • Keep Hydrated **At a minimum 4-6 cups per day**
  • Limit Sugary drinks
  • Limit processed foods 

** Please note that fluid intake & Potassium intake needs to be done in consideration of your current health condition diagnosis and discussed with your primary health care provider.

Healthy eating emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein. A healthy and balance diet can have great overall effects for your health and wellbeing. You should always consult with your doctor before making any major changes to make sure the choices are right for you.

References/Resources:

NYC FAIR Town Hall On November 9, 2023

NYC FAIR Town Hall On November 9, 2023:
What Is A Life Plan? What Is It For?

NYC FAIR is hosting a virtual Town Hall on Thursday, 11.9 at 7:00 PM via Zoom. Guest speakers include:

  • Becki Lifford, Assistant Director, Office of Strategic Initiatives, OPWDD
  • Cathy Varano, Chief Administrative Officer, Care Design NY
  • Randy Bolton, Executive Committee, NYC FAIR

Register to attend and learn more about what a Life Plan is, what it includes, and why it’s helpful. Submit any questions in advance via the online registration form or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The join link will be emailed ahead of the meeting.

Learn More | Register

Partners Health Plan Chief Medical Officer Featured Presenter at a Resources for Integrated Care (RIC) Webinar

Strategies For Improving Care Coordination for Individuals With Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

Stephan Deutsch, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Partners Health Plan (PHP), a nonprofit managed care organization dedicated to serving individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), will be a featured presenter at a Resources for Integrated Care (RIC) webinar on August 9 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm. The webinar will discuss strategies for providing coordinated care for individuals with IDD, risk stratification strategies to drive interventions, and family or caregiver support, education, and outreach.

Other webinar presenters include Joan Beasley, PhD, Research Professor, National Center for START Services, Director, National Research Consortium on MH-IDD, Institute on Disability (UCED), University of New Hampshire; and Emily Lauer, PhD, MPH, Director, Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, UMass Chan Medical School.  Presenters will describe the current gaps in care for individuals with IDD and they will share strategies for delivering person-centered care using interdisciplinary teams (IDTs) and innovative care coordination models.

Partners Health Plan has operated the New York Fully Integrated Duals Advantage for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FIDA-IDD) demonstration since 2016. It is the only FIDA-IDD plan in the nation and has been successfully delivering services that address the whole person and promote community involvement and independence for people with IDD who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid benefits.

“Webinar participants will understand the impact of person-centered coordinated care strategies based on data,” stated Dr. Stephan Deutsch, Chief Medical Officer for Partners Health Plan, “in a managed care environment to enhance the quality of care for each individual with IDD so he/she may achieve optimal healthcare and social outcomes.”

 

Webinar Registration

Click here to visit the RIC website to complete the webinar registration form. If you need assistance in registering, please email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Continuing Education (CE) credits are available for Continuing Nursing Education and the National Association of Social Workers. Individuals are encouraged to check with their specific licensing boards or other agencies to confirm that courses taken from these accrediting bodies will be accepted by that entity.

 

About Partners Health Plan

Partners Health Plan (PHP) is the first-in-the-nation, provider-led managed care organization that fully integrates Medicare and Medicaid for individuals 21 years and older with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD), so they have the most complete care package. PHP provides person-centered care for whole-person wellness addressing the physical, behavioral, and social needs of individuals to assist them in living a quality life. The plan operates in 4 New York State regions (nine downstate counties): New York City, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk counties), Rockland County, and Westchester County.

Partners Health Plan is Featured Guest on MediSked Podcast

Partners Health Plan is Featured Guest on MediSked Podcast

Partners Health Plan was a featured MediSked Podcast guest on January 4, 2023,. The podcast entitled, “Inclusion Benefits All-- The Case for Employing Neurodiverse Individuals” delivered important information on the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities. Karleen Haines, Chief of Member Relations & Advocacy in the podcast’s Q&A delivered key points on the value of eliminating barriers and diversifying the workforce, especially if the hiring goals are embedded in the organization’s mission.

Listeners are asked thought provoking questions such as, “What type of support do I need to provide individuals, so they are successful? What are the positive outcomes when employing people with a disability? How are we writing the job descriptions and recruiting to ensure we have a diverse candidate pool?”

PHP Member, Ackeem Duggan, shared his personal employment journey. We learn about his challenges and ultimate rewards of financial gain, stability, independence, professional, and personal growth, community inclusion and belonging, making new friends, and experiencing improved mental health and personal well-being.

The program emphasizes that successful employment outcomes are rooted in advocacy. This episode is a testament to effective care management and coordination to assist individuals with disabilities live their best lives. Care Managers, who are fierce advocates for the individuals they support, ensure the necessary supports and services are in place. Does an individual have a job coach who can help them make meaningful connections and provide training and onboarding support?

Ackeem describes how those pieces and previous successes were in place for him. Today, he is happy and successful working for the NYPD Director of Community Affairs.

 Listen to this episode and let us know what you think! Ep. 10: Inclusion Benefits All – The Case for Employing Neurodiverse Individuals - MediSked, LLC

Partners Health Plan Presents at The Arc National convention

Partners Health Plan Presents at The Arc National Convention

Inclusion Benefits All: An Employment Success Story

Partners Health Plan's Cheif of Member Relations and Advocacy, Karleen M. Haines, along with PHP member Ackeem, were asked to present at the Arc’s National Convention “Inclusion Benefits All: An Employment Success Story.
They shared how Ackeem seeks to continue his successful path to independence and community involvement and how he received support and gained the confidence to seize opportunities or create them where they did not exist. They also looked at the value of hiring an inclusive workforce, the country’s general employment outlook, and how social determinants of health and access to care are crucial in order to grow, work, and live a fulfilling life.

Learning Objectives:

  • The business case for inclusion of employees with IDD and neurodiversity in the workplace
  • How circle of support teams can advocate in the current state of employment for those with disabilities
  • A personal story of employment success and growth, of a talented and determined individual

Partners Health Plan Presents: Leadership Speaking Engagements

Partners Health Plan Presents:
Leadership Speaking Engagements 

Steven Merahn, MD, Medical Director, present "Value and Outcomes in IDD Care: A Radical Proposal” at the NY Alliance Annual Conference on April 19, 2023. The presentation focused on new models for outcomes measurement and value of services provided to the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) community. Dr. Merahn explored how to drive meaningful impact for individuals with IDD, supporting their efforts to fully participate (emotionally, socially, economically) and succeed as active, productive members of family and community.

Dr. Steven Merahn also presented on Autism Outcomes at the annual meeting of the Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP) in Tampa, FL on April 23, 2023. Dr. Merahn’s “Radical Proposal” engaged participants in a discussion about the ongoing challenges of defining the value of services provided to children with autism and how to best measure them. The goal is to look beyond autism symptoms and help map a plan for children with autism across their lifespan. CASP is an international trade association of autism service provider organizations focused on delivering quality, safe and effective care.   

Partners Health Plan Presents: Leadership Speaking Engagements at the NY Alliance Annual Conference

Partners Health Plan Presents: Leadership Speaking Engagements at the NY Alliance Annual Conference

On April 19, Karleen Haines, Chief of Member Relations and Advocacy with PHP member, Ackeem Duggan, presented, “Inclusion Benefits All: An Employment Journey," at the NY Alliance Annual Conference. An inspiring employment journey of an individual to achieve independence and community involvement and how advocacy paved his bright future of employment and other neurodiverse individuals in the country and in New York.

Recruiting, hiring, and maintaining a workforce inclusive for those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) form the bedrock of this presentation. 

Ackeem works for the New York City Police Department as the Director of Community Affairs Bureau. LEARN MOREabout Ackeem's employment story.

Partners Health Plan Sponsors Special Olympics NY Health & Wellness Forums

In the News

Special Olympics NY Welcomes Care Design NY As Sponsor of Health & Wellness Forums

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York is pleased to announce that their Virtual Health & Wellness Forums will now be sponsored by Care Coordination Organization Care Design NY and Partners Health Plan (PHP), the only IDD-specialized health plan in New York.

These Health & Wellness Forums allow the Special Olympics NY community a space to engage with health-focused individuals and organizations, with the goal of bettering access to health care, education, and inclusive activities for people with intellectual disabilities.

“Health and wellness are paramount to the continued competitive success of our athletes,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We know our friends at Care Design NY and Partners Health Plan feel the same, and we are grateful for their support.”

“We are thrilled to begin a partnership with Special Olympics New York which includes sponsoring virtual health and wellness forums geared towards educating and empowering individuals with IDD,” said Kerry Delaney, CEO of Care Design NY and Partners Health Plan. “We share a common bond in developing and advancing inclusive health initiatives where everyone can participate and improve their physical and social-emotional well-being. This partnership is truly a win-win, and we are proud to be part of it.”

The Virtual Health & Wellness Forums began on September 19 with 2023 Special Olympics NY Golisano Health Leadership Award recipient Claire Watson. The next forum will commence on Tuesday, October 17 at 6:30 PM with Downstate Clinical Director Laura Malick, RD. Prospective attendees are invited to register here.

Partners Health Plan Team Members & Advocates Rally in Hauppauge for the Future of People with I/DD

In the News

Partners Health Plan Team Members & Advocates Rally in Hauppauge for the Future of People with I/DD

On Friday, March 7, advocates, individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD), and their families gathered at the New York State Office Building in Hauppauge for a powerful call to action in support of the I/DD community.

The rally brought together voices from across Long Island and beyond to advocate for increased investment in the future of people with I/DD and those who dedicate their lives to supporting them. The event featured remarks from New York State Legislative Committee Members on People with Disabilities — Senator Monica Martinez and Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio — who spoke passionately about the urgent need for sustained funding, meaningful support, and lasting recognition for this vital community.

Thank you to everyone who showed up, stood together, and raised their voices. Your advocacy plays a critical role in shaping a better, more inclusive future for all.

Partners Health Plan Team Members & Members Participate in Jawonio Rally In The Valley

In the News

Partners Health Plan Team Members & Members Participate in Jawonio Rally In The Valley

On Friday, March 7, team members from Partners Health Plan and our sister organization, Care Design NY, came together with members, families, and advocates at NY Boulders Stadium to participate in a powerful rally hosted by Jawonio.

The event was a meaningful opportunity to raise our collective voices in support of increased state and federal funding, the protection of Medicaid and the preservation of essential services for New Yorkers with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD). Together, we stood united to advocate for the respect, resources and recognition this community rightfully deserves.

Partners Health Plan To Present at The Arc Leadership Institute

Partners Health Plan (PHP) submitted a proposal to The Arc of the United States to present at the National Conference of Executives (NCE) Summer Leadership Institute (July date TBD) on the “Positive Impact of Telemedicine in the IDD Field.” It was successfully selected from a competitive submission process.

Scott Doolan, RN, BSN, MBA, AVP Health Care Management, will present and provide participants with details related to the PHP telemedicine program and provide a detailed analysis of emergency room and admission avoidance related to the program with the clinical and positive financial implications leading to the justification in maintaining a proactive member/caregiver-initiated telemedicine program post- pandemic to improve the quality of care for the IDD population.

The NCE unites executives, leaders, and professionals from across the disability sector in pursuit of a shared mission. This summer’s conference will focus on the most pressing issues faced by the disability community, including COVID-19 vaccination, HCBS developments, the DSP workforce crisis, the American Rescue Plan, and more.

For more information, please contact Elizabeth Wales, AVP Communications at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHP Expands Dental Services to Members With Mobile Clinics

PHP Expands Dental Services to Members With Mobile Clinics

Partners Health Plan (PHP) has expanded dental services to its members, adults (21 years and older) with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Through its nonprofit, non-traditional tailored IDD care model, PHP partnered with Solvere Health to bring mobile dental clinics to members, making oral care accessible.

On Saturday, May 6, the Institutes of Applied Human Dynamics (iAHD) hosted the mobile dental clinic at their Bainbridge dayhab location. PHP members were treated by oral health care providers with specific expertise related to individuals with IDD.

Erica Robinson, iAHD Director of Clinical Supports stated,

“It was amazing that we were able to have thirteen individuals receive dental services on Saturday on location at IAHD! The collaboration with Partners Health Plan, Solvere Health, and iAHD is the future of dental services for people supported.”

PHP Presents at NYSABA’s 34th Annual Conference

PHP Presents at NYSABA’s 34th Annual Conference

Partners Health Plan Medical Director Steven Merahn, MD was joined by UNIFI Autism Care, Inc. Executive Vice President, Clinical Operations Erica Outlaw, MA, BCBA, LBA at NYSABA’s 34th Annual Conference in Albany, NY.

Their presentation, “Autism Outcomes: A Radical Proposal,” provided an overview about the increasing challenges to the autism community. It defined the value of services provided to children with autism and their families. Dr. Merahn and Ms. Outlaw also explored the foundations of the discipline of behavior analysis and its applications and shared the “whole child” model of care planning and delivery.

PHP Presents at The New York Alliance Conference

PHP Presents at The New York Alliance Conference

Karleen Haines, Chief of DEIB & Member Advocacy, Veronica Crawford, Individual and Family Liaison and Self-Advocate, and Carrie Delong, RN, Director of Health Care Management presented, "Managing my Health and Wellness" at The New York Alliance's Living & Working in the Community Conference; an event focused on innovative, best practices in Self-Direction. 

Workshop participants received tips, tools, and resources to support individuals in achieving and maintaining independence through overall health and wellness. 

Partners Health Plan is a not-for-profit managed care organization serving individuals with IDD to support their goals and dreams. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT SELF DIRECTION

RISE Special Needs Plan Leadership Summit

RISE Special Needs Plan Leadership Summit

Why Individuals with IDD Should Be Considered a "Health Disparities" Population

Partners Health Plan CEO Kerry Delaney and Medical Director Steven Merahn, MD, showcased their leadership and expertise at the 12th Annual Special Needs Plan (SNP) Leadership Summit. The summit (May 24-26), organized by RISE, brings together influential figures in the health plan industry to share insights on enhancing patient outcomes.

Delaney and Dr. Merahn had the privilege of opening the summit and delivering a presentation titled "Intellectual and Developmental Disability: A Health Disparities Population." The presentation demonstrated how Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) should be classified by federal and state governments as a “health disparities population.”

More than three decades after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), disabled Americans still face barriers to health care, lower quality of care, and disparate health outcomes. The IDD population faces challenges regarding access to health care for their urgent and long-term needs. Further, they struggle with inequitable access to transportation, education, housing, employment and other non-medical determinants of health. Existing health, economic and social policies worsen these disparities.

Throughout their presentation, Delaney and Dr. Merahn examined individuals with IDD to address the distinct patterns of conditions, functional limitations, and risk factors that impact their health quality. Recognizing that traditional SNP operations and care models may not sufficiently support goal achievement for individuals with IDD, they explored IDD through the lens of health disparities. This approach allows for the development of a person-centered care model that accounts for functional, home, and community supports.

The presentation also provided valuable insights into the challenges and best practices for caring for individuals with IDD, with the goal of generating value not only for members, but for family/caregivers, provider networks, and the plan itself.

Learn More

Self-Care Tips for Your Mental Health

Self-Care is a Conscious, Mindful Effort To Take Time to Take Care of Yourself - It's Not Selfish, it's Necessary!

Before you can "effectively" take care of others, you must first take care of yourself!

What Does Self-Care Mean to YOU?

Self-care means something different to everyone. What may be self-care for one, may be stressful for another.

  • Healthy Diet
  • Hydration 
  • Reading a book
  • Listening to music
  • Watching a movie
  • Exercise
  • Enjoy Nature- Hike, etc. 
  • Gardening
  • Fishing
  • Church or other Spiritual activities
  • Time with family
  • Time with a pet
  • Cooking/baking
  • Traveling
  • Spa day
  • Enjoy a hobby

People are like flowers. Without consistent nurturing and tending, they will wilt. With consistent nurturing and tending, they will thrive. 

Only you know what you need, to thrive. 

-Melissa Ackernecht, MS, Behavioral Support Specialist

Self-Care Tips

Have a nourishing routine: create a life around yourself that benefits your mental health and the areas of your life that need support. Make little changes first!

  • Schedule time for self-care.

  • Know the Wellness Dimensions and what they mean to and for you.

  • Self-care means taking time to do things you enjoy. Usually, self-care involves everyday activities that you find relaxing, fun, or energizing. These activities could be as simple as reading a book, or as big as taking a vacation.  

  • Make self-care a priority. There will always be other things to do, but don’t let these interrupt the time you set aside for self-care. Self-care should be given the same importance as other responsibilities.  

  • Set boundaries to protect your self-care. You don’t need a major obligation to say “no” to others- you self-care is reason enough. Remind yourself that your needs are important as anyone else’s.  

  • A few minutes of self-care is better than no self-care. Set an alarm reminding you to take regular breaks, even if it’s just a walk around the block, or an uninterrupted snack. Oftentimes, stepping away will energize you to work more efficiently when you return.  

  • Keep up with self-care, even when you’re feeling good. Doing so will keep you in a healthy routine. Plus, self-care might be part of the reason why you’re feeling good.  

Mental Health Resources