by Suzanne Holloway | Feb 5, 2025
February is a month to celebrate matters of the heart—both in love and in health. With Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, February is the perfect time to cherish our loved ones while committing to a heart-healthy lifestyle. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for 1 in 5 deaths in 2022, according to the CDC. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, we can build healthier lives, families, and communities.
Heart Disease Defined
© freshidea / Adobe Stock
So, what is heart disease? The term “heart disease” actually refers to several conditions affecting the heart, but the most common is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD occurs when deposits of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), “bad” cholesterol, and other substances form plaque in the arteries. Over time, this plaque buildup can narrow the arteries, restricting or blocking blood flow.
Other types of heart diseases include arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), cardiomyopathy (abnormal heart muscle), heart valve disease, and heart failure. Understanding these conditions is essential to recognizing potential and current risk factors and acting.
Knowing Your Risks & Making Changes
When it comes to heart health, some risk factors are beyond our control, such as genetics and age. These elements are woven into the fabric of who we are, making them difficult—or impossible—to change. However, lifestyle choices, such as diet, physical activity, smoking, and even some environmental factors can be changed at the individual level. In the United States, nearly half of the population has at least one of these three key risk factors for heart disease:
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- High LDL Cholesterol
- Smoking
Lifestyle changes—such as improving your diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking—can make a significant difference. Taking care of your heart is much like nurturing a great relationship. It begins with small steps and grows stronger with consistent care, dedication, and some compromises. Your daily decisions about food, exercise, and habits like alcohol and tobacco use play a starring role in your heart health. While you can’t change your genetics, the choices you make today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.
Share the Love
Show your loved ones you care by encouraging heart-healthy habits. Plan an active date, such as a scenic nature walk or a fun bike ride, or cook a delicious and nutritious meal together. Celebrate the month of love by taking charge of your heart health and inspiring others to do the same.
Whether it’s making small changes to your routine, learning more about heart disease, or supporting awareness efforts, every step counts toward a healthier, happier future for you and those you love. Let’s make February a heartfelt celebration of love and health.
Additional Sources
CDC American Heart Month Communications Toolkit
About Heart Disease (CDC)
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by Kendra Hughson | Feb 5, 2025
In recent years, the conversation around mental health has gained significant momentum, particularly in the context of the workplace. As employees increasingly recognize the importance of mental well-being, employers are also beginning to understand that a mentally healthy workforce is not just a moral imperative but a key driver of productivity and overall business success.
The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health issues can significantly impact employee performance, engagement, and retention. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion each year in lost productivity. The ripple effects can be profound: when employees are struggling with their mental health, it can lead to increased absenteeism, decreased morale, and lower job satisfaction.
Conversely, workplaces that prioritize mental health often see tangible benefits. Organizations that invest in employee well-being report higher productivity levels, reduced healthcare costs, and lower turnover rates. A supportive work environment can enhance employee loyalty, creativity, and teamwork, ultimately contributing to a positive corporate culture.
Creating a Supportive Environment
When employees are struggling with their mental health, it can lead to increased absenteeism, decreased morale, and lower job satisfaction. Photo Credit: Kendra Hughson
- Open Communication: Fostering a culture of open dialogue about mental health is crucial. Employees should feel safe discussing their mental health without fear of stigma or repercussions. Regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and anonymous surveys can help gauge employee sentiment and identify areas for improvement.
- Training and Resources: Providing training for managers on recognizing signs of mental health issues and how to support employees can create a more empathetic workplace. Additionally, offering resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health days, and wellness workshops can equip employees with the tools they need to manage stress and maintain their mental well-being.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: The rise of remote work has highlighted the importance of flexibility in maintaining work-life balance. Offering flexible hours or hybrid work options can help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities more effectively, reducing stress and promoting mental health.
- Promoting Work-Life Balance: Encouraging employees to disconnect after work hours and take regular breaks can prevent burnout. Organizations can set a precedent by respecting personal time and promoting a culture where taking time off for mental health is not only accepted but encouraged.
- Wellness Programs: Implementing wellness initiatives such as mindfulness sessions, fitness classes, or stress management workshops can provide employees with valuable coping strategies. These programs can foster a sense of community and belonging, which is vital for mental health.
The Role of Leadership
Leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping workplace culture. Leaders who prioritize their own mental health and model healthy behaviors can inspire employees to do the same. By being transparent about their struggles and openly discussing mental health, leaders can help break down the stigma that often surrounds these issues.
Moreover, investing in leadership training that focuses on emotional intelligence can enhance leaders’ ability to empathize with their teams, recognize signs of distress, and foster a supportive environment.
Conclusion
As mental health continues to gain recognition as a critical component of overall well-being, organizations must take proactive steps to support their employees. By fostering open communication, providing resources, promoting work-life balance, and investing in leadership development, companies can create a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health. The benefits are clear: a healthier, happier workforce is not only good for employees but also for business success. Embracing mental health as a priority will lead to a more resilient, engaged, and productive workplace for all.
Source: ChatGBT
During the preparation of this work the author used ChatGBT to compile information about mental health in the workplace. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content as needed and takes full responsibility for the content of the publication.
by Melanie Southerland | Jan 10, 2025
Lettuce and kale leaves. UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones
According to the American Heart Association, recommended blood pressure values should be a systolic (upper number) less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic (lower number) less than 80 mm Hg. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is when blood pressure is consistently higher than normal. Why is this important? Hypertension increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Let’s talk about risk factors:
Family History and Age:
If someone in your immediate family has hypertension, you are at a higher risk for the condition. Knowing your family history can help you make lifestyle choices that can be beneficial for your overall health and well-being. As you get older, age increases the risk for the condition. Men are more likely than women to develop the condition before age 64; women have a higher risk after the age of 65.
Unhealthy Eating Pattern:
Eating patterns consisting of foods high in sodium, added sugars, saturated fats, and trans fats can increase the risk of high blood pressure. Unhealthy eating patterns can contribute to overweight and obesity which also is a risk factor for high blood pressure because the extra weight puts strain on the heart and circulatory system. Also, drinking alcohol in excess can cause many health conditions, but it can especially increase the risk of high blood pressure.
Physical Inactivity:
Not getting enough physical activity can increase your risk. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Exercise increases blood flow throughout the body which is beneficial to the heart. Regular physical activity can also help the body maintain a healthy weight.
Other Conditions:
Diabetes, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, smoking, and tobacco use are all other risk factors for getting high blood pressure.
Cooked beets and carrots on a cutting board. UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones
The American Heart Association recommends following a healthy diet pattern. What does a healthy eating pattern look like? Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low-fat or fat-free dairy, and whole grains. Dark green vegetables such as collards, kale, broccoli as well as sweet potatoes and beets can be beneficial for blood pressure. Fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, and bananas are especially good for blood pressure. Choose to eat whole grains rather than refined grains and lean protein foods such as fish and de-skinned chicken. For plant protein sources, choose beans, lentils, and chickpeas. The USDA MyPlate recommends 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free dairy per day. For more information on recommended serving sizes for each food group, visit choosemyplate.gov and check out the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Now that you know about high blood pressure, common risk factors, and how to follow a healthy eating pattern, let’s start reducing our risk for high blood pressure today!
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