Resources for Heart Health

Healthy Heart Week begins today, Feb. 8! Healthy Heart Week will take place Feb. 8-12 and feature a full week of virtual programming designed to address lifestyle factors that influence heart health and steps we can take to prevent heart disease among men, women and children. Click here for the full list of offerings and to register.

In addition to Healthy Heart Week webinars, Employee Wellness has highlighted several resources below, which are available to support employees in practicing regular self-care and prevention. Well-established strategies for preventing heart disease include proper nutrition, regular movement, refraining from or quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress. It is also important to monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as manage any other chronic diseases, such as diabetes.

NUTRITION COUNSELING & HEALTH COACHING

Meeting with a dietitian or health coach can help you take meaningful steps toward your wellness goals. During an individualized session, you choose the topic you want to discuss, and your health coach or registered dietitian provides support and accountability through an evidence-based approach. Full time, benefits eligible faculty and staff can schedule a session by logging into the Be Well portal and clicking on the link for nutrition counseling and health coaching under "My Appointments." Full- and part-time employees and family members can request nutrition counseling or life coaching through Impact Solutions by calling 800-227-6007. 

SMOKING CESSATION RESOURCES

Nicotine replacement therapy and tobacco cessation medication is covered in full with no co-pay or co-insurance under the CVS prescription drug plan for all employees and their covered dependents. Click here for additional cessation resources, including free comprehensive quit programs and self-help apps.

LIVONGO DIABETES MANAGEMENT

If you have diabetes, you're twice as likely to have heart disease than someone who doesn't have diabetes – and at a younger age. Employees and dependents covered under the university's prescription plan with CVS can join the Livongo Diabetes Management program free of charge. The program includes an advanced glucose meter, unlimited test strips and supplies, and access to expert advice from Certified Diabetes Educators. 

MINDFULNESS, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND NUTRITION RESOURCES

At the onset of remote work at Kent State, Employee Wellness compiled a list of free virtual resources to support employee health and well-being while working from home. Click here to discover apps, YouTube channels and more. 

For questions regarding wellness offerings and resources for faculty and staff, please contact Employee Wellness at wellness@kent.edu or 330-672-0392.

POSTED: Monday, February 8, 2021 01:07 PM
Updated: Friday, December 9, 2022 01:51 PM