Do your part during PTSD Awareness Month

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas partners with New Directions to make sure our members and employees have access to the behavioral health resources they need. More than 5 million people experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) each year Unfortunately, many of us will experience trauma in our lifetime. A traumatic event could be anything from assault or combat to childhood neglect. Traumatic events can … Continue reading Do your part during PTSD Awareness Month

{Guest Blog} BIPOC Mental Health Awareness

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas partners with New Directions to provide behavioral health screenings, resources and support to our members and employees. Mental health is essential for everyone, so that’s why it’s important to highlight the different needs and experiences of those who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color). By taking time to understand the unique identities and experiences of … Continue reading {Guest Blog} BIPOC Mental Health Awareness

{Guest blog} How much is too much?

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas partners with New Directions to provide behavioral health screenings, resources and support to our members and employees. Drinking alcohol can lessen tension, reduce inhibitions and ease social interactions. While you can drink safely, drinking too much can be harmful physically, emotionally and economically. During Alcohol Awareness Month, join us in raising awareness of the dangers of unhealthy alcohol … Continue reading {Guest blog} How much is too much?

{Guest blog} Set and achieve your financial goals

After a year of setbacks, postponed plans and well… disappointment, you may be looking forward to getting back to the plans you had before the pandemic – but they may come with a price tag. Start planning now! Here are some tips on making sure you can afford those big plans. Set goals Make sure your goals are realistic, detailed and clear – then write … Continue reading {Guest blog} Set and achieve your financial goals

{Guest blog} Know the signs of a mental illness

If you notice you or someone you care about seems “off,” you might be onto something. Knowing the signs of mental health issues and early intervention are key to getting proper help and support. While a single symptom might not be a reason for significant concern, a combination or sudden onset of any of the following symptoms may indicate the need for professional help. In … Continue reading {Guest blog} Know the signs of a mental illness

We must focus on our mental health during COVID-19 pandemic – a message from our CEO

How are you doing today? It’s a question we ask each other all the time, mostly out of courtesy. We ask it so often, in fact, that the question has lost much of its meaning. We seldom ask it expecting an honest answer. That’s too bad, because these days a lot of our neighbors need us to ask that question — and mean it. The … Continue reading We must focus on our mental health during COVID-19 pandemic – a message from our CEO

{Guest blog} Young people and suicide

You’ve probably seen or heard about rising suicide rates in the news – it’s scary, right? Right now, we are seeing suicide rates among young people reach the highest levels since 2000. The good news is suicide is preventable, and there are things you can do to support others and help change those statistics. Whether you have a child at home, work with kids or … Continue reading {Guest blog} Young people and suicide

{Guest blog} Stress on relationships

This past year has had no shortage of challenges. And with so much time spent at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, you may get a little irritated with your partner or household members.  Whether you’re bickering about politics, homeschooling, holidays or dirty dishes, there are opportunities to work on your relationship skills. Keep your relationship healthy and your conversations constructive by following these tips … Continue reading {Guest blog} Stress on relationships