Wellness news: Tips for overall mental and emotional well-being

Mental and emotional wellness are important parts of your overall health, and in current times, it is important to step back and remember that being good to your mind is just as important as being good to your body. Take time to pay attention to how you feel and follow these simple steps to take a holistic approach to taking care of yourself.

Stick to a sleep schedule. 
Lack of sleep affects your mood, mental sharpness and ability to handle stress. It's also linked to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. To create a healthy routine, go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends.

Move your body, lift your mood.
Exercise can release tension, tame stress and improve your sense of well-being. Plus, it can relieve some symptoms of depression and anxiety as effectively as certain medications—all with no side effects.
The LIFT Session Virtual Fitness app is available through University of the Pacific’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Personalized Journeys are free to EAP members, but there also is the option to purchase Live Group Training and Personal Training through the LIFT session. To give the app a try, visit the LIFT Session website and create an account using your Pacific employee email address.

Find your words.
Speak up if you're struggling. The people in your life are there for a reason, so be honest with your loved ones if you're having a rough time. They can't help unless they know you need their support.

Additional resources to assist you:

• Students: CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services) on-call therapist is available 24/7. During business hours, call 209.946.2315 x2 and ask to be transferred to our on-call therapist. On nights and weekends, call 209.946.2315 x2 and wait for the CAPS voicemail to begin, then press 4 and you will be connected to a licensed therapist. Additional information can be found on our website.
• Staff and faculty may contact the Employee Assistance program at 866.695.6327.
• Faculty, staff and student employees may contact University Ombudsperson Hector Escalante at 209.932.3017 or 209.715.3065.
• Human Resources:
  Stockton: 209.946.2124 — human_resources@pacific.edu
  Sacramento: 916.739.7031 — sacramentohr@pacific.edu
  San Francisco: 415.929.6468 — sfhr@pacific.edu

Learn more about mental and emotional wellness at FindYourWords or KaiserPermanente.org.