{Guest blog} Suicide awareness month – how to cope with social distancing, quarantine & isolation

Since the beginning of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the nation and the world has seen significant changes to daily living. While social distancing, quarantine and isolation help prevent the spread of infectious disease, these same practices may impact your mental health in a negative way. Common reactions Everybody reacts differently to stressful situations. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may experience anxiety, worry or … Continue reading {Guest blog} Suicide awareness month – how to cope with social distancing, quarantine & isolation

{Guest post} Somehow, someway, school is starting

The back-to-school shopping, the bustling hallways after a long summer away from friends, the first day icebreaker games – it’s all going to look A LOT different this year, thanks to coronavirus (COVID-19). Depending on the infection rates in your community, schools may not physically reopen at all. Whether it’s staggered school hours, safely distanced desks or strictly online learning, there’s a lot of uncertainty … Continue reading {Guest post} Somehow, someway, school is starting

The opioid epidemic is still a crisis, even during a pandemic

When the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic gripped our country, many aspects of life just stopped. Schools were closed/ Movies, concerts, and vacations were cancelled. Many people found themselves out of work or furloughed. Others found themselves stressed about working an essential job that required them to risk exposure to the virus that was increasing in numbers on a daily basis. Many found themselves with nowhere to … Continue reading The opioid epidemic is still a crisis, even during a pandemic

Celebrating stars in our community #AdAstraStrong

Ad Astra Per Aspera is the official state motto for Kansas. “To the stars through difficulty” is a sentiment that has never felt more true than today. It emphasizes our values and optimism that, even when faced with the most difficult hardships, we come together as a state and keep our sights set on what’s important. With tenacity, humbleness and perseverance, we can get through … Continue reading Celebrating stars in our community #AdAstraStrong

Get 24/7 care with telemedicine

What is Telemedicine? Safe and secure, telemedicine is the quality care you need made easier. Telemedicine is an alternative to in-person visits. It allows healthcare professionals to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients from a distance using secure video/audio connections. With Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas coverage, you can visit live with a doctor on your computer or mobile device when it’s convenient for … Continue reading Get 24/7 care with telemedicine

Keeping your home safe

You’re probably spending a lot of time in your home these days. That’s one place where you have some control. Here are some tips that can help keep you and your home safe and help control the spread of the coronavirus. Practice prevention. Wash your hands well and often. Scrub with soap and water for 20 seconds. If you go out, wash your hands as … Continue reading Keeping your home safe

{Guest blog} Managing anxiety during the coronavirus outbreak

It’s normal to feel worried during times of stress, and many people struggle with anxiety in the best of times. Those feelings have been amplified for many during these unusual times we are living through together during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some steps you can take to manage anxiety and lower your stress. Get the facts. Go to trusted sources. Check the Centers for … Continue reading {Guest blog} Managing anxiety during the coronavirus outbreak

The what, why, and how on social distancing

As coronavirus (COVID-19) cases continue to rise in the United States, including in Kansas, it is important to practice social distancing. Social distancing means putting space between yourself and other people. In this case, 6 feet or more is the recommended distance. It also means avoiding contact with other people as much as you can. So if possible: Work from home, and keep your kids … Continue reading The what, why, and how on social distancing