2 • Physical exam. Height, weight, blood pressure, and other health metrics are checked. • Screenings and tests. Depending on your age and risk factors, screenings may include vision, hearing, cholesterol, and others. • Immunizations. Your provider will check that you’re up to date on your vaccinations and give new ones, as needed. • Health and wellness guidance. Your provider may offer advice on diet, exercise, mental health, and more. Take charge of your health Preventive care helps you stay ahead of potential health problems. Don’t wait until you feel sick — schedule your wellness visit today. A simple checkup can make a big difference in your longterm health. If you have questions about wellness visits or need help scheduling an appointment, call the number on the back of your member ID card. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American Academy of Pediatrics; American Medical Association; MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Mental health and motherhood Expecting a baby? You may be feeling happy, nervous, and excited. Pregnancy can come with many feelings, including feeling anxious and overwhelmed. After giving birth, many new moms experience tiredness, worry, and sadness. This is also known as baby blues. These feelings usually go away on their own. For some women, these feelings can become severe and interfere with their daily lives. This is known as postpartum depression. Postpartum depression occurs in one out of eight women and can happen to anyone. Women may also have these feelings during pregnancy. Symptoms of postpartum depression can include: • Crying more than usual • Extreme sadness or anger • Not feeling a connection with your baby • Worrying about hurting your baby • Having guilt or doubts about not being a good mom If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your provider to find a treatment that is right for you. As a new mom, it can be hard to focus on yourself and your health, but it is crucial to your baby’s health and well-being too. Depression can happen to anyone. You can prepare by knowing what to look for and getting help when you need it. What additional resources are there? • Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors for postpartum depression and what to watch out for. • Go to phs.org/VirtualPRES to schedule a virtual behavioral health visit from the ease and comfort of your home. • Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 833-852-6262 (833-TLC-MAMA) for free, 24/7, confidential counselor support. • If you are thinking about harming yourself or your baby, get help now. Go to the emergency room if needed. You can call 988 for emergency help from the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Sources: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Health Resources and Services Administration; National Institute of Child Health and Development; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Wellness visits are for everyone — Continued from front page
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTI0MzU=