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Parents, protect your child against measles before international travel

2024-05-02T11:01:00

(BPT) – Do you have travel plans? As your family gets ready for summer trips and get-togethers, make sure your child is up to date with routine childhood vaccines. The World Health Organization has noted a significant increase in measles cases worldwide, including popular international tourist destinations for Americans. Travel is a great opportunity to see new places and visit family, but it can also put you and your family at risk for measles if you aren’t all vaccinated.

The good news? Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations is the best way to protect your child from measles and other diseases. Here’s what you need to know before you travel.

Measles is very contagious and can cause serious symptoms like high fever and a rash.

Measles is caused by a virus and spreads to others very easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The measles virus is so contagious that up to 90% of the people around an infected person can become infected if they are not vaccinated — and the virus can even stay in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person is there.

Vaccination can help protect your child against measles and related complications.

The good news is that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective in protecting you and your family from measles. The MMR vaccine is part of the recommended immunization schedule for all children and adults. Vaccination with MMR is the best and safest way to prevent measles. When both doses of MMR vaccine are given (typically when the child is about 1 and 4 years old), MMR is 97% effective at preventing measles.

If you plan to travel internationally, make sure you and your loved ones are protected against measles before departure. CDC recommends:

  • Infants 6 to 11 months receive one dose of the MMR vaccine before traveling internationally.
  • If children 12 months and older are not vaccinated, CDC recommends they receive two doses 28 days apart before traveling.

Make sure you discuss your options with your child’s healthcare provider before traveling. Even one dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective in protecting against the illness.

Prepare your child for travel by ensuring they are up to date on their MMR vaccine, so you and your family can focus on what matters: staying healthy and safe while traveling abroad. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider and learn more about measles today.

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9 helpful mealtime hacks from iconic TV host and actor

2024-05-02T08:15:00

(BPT) – When it comes to getting meals on the table that your whole family will love, iconic actor, television host and father of four Alfonso Ribeiro has a few go-to tips and tricks to ensure mealtime is a success.

“Juggling our family’s hectic schedule and my career means we’re constantly seeking ways to get meals on the table quickly and without too much prep time,” said Ribeiro, who has been a longtime spokesperson for the Bob Evans brand. “Along with many tips I’ve learned along the way, I discovered that Bob Evans is a great mealtime solution for busy families like mine.”

Here are some of Ribeiro’s best tips for managing a busy family kitchen and coming up with delicious, satisfying and convenient meals.

1. Prep meals ahead

To help your family get through the busy work and school week, brown up a batch of Bob Evans Sausage over the weekend so you’ll have plenty to add to dishes throughout the week — like breakfast tacos, biscuits and gravy, pasta dishes and shepherd’s pie, just to name a few. Get creative and combine the sausage with buttered veggies and potatoes for a quick and easy weeknight meal or swap out the protein source in some of your favorite recipes.

2. Spice it up

You can put your own personal tastes into family favorites like Bob Evans ready-to-heat Original Mashed Potatoes or Macaroni & Cheese by sprucing them up with a variety of toppings and mix-ins that you love, like garlic, jalapenos or bacon bits.

3. Easy microwave cleaning

Need a quick fix to help you clean out your microwave? Put a cup of water and half a cup of vinegar into a microwave-safe bowl and place it in your microwave, then microwave on high until the mixture comes to a boil and the window steams up. Allow the microwave to cool for a few minutes, then wipe the interior down with a sponge or cloth.

4. Freshen your kitchen with citrus

Did you know that you can clean up your wooden cutting board by massaging it with coarse salt and half a lemon? Try it! You can also use ground-up citrus peels of any kind, along with ice, to freshen your kitchen sink drain or garbage disposal.

5. Save time and fridge space

You can avoid having too many unwanted leftovers and reduce post-dinner clean-up at the same time by using single-serve side dishes. Bob Evans offers convenient, single-serve options like Mashed Potatoes in a variety of flavors, and Macaroni & Cheese, which can also make it a lot easier to satisfy family members asking for different choices at dinnertime.

6. End the cling wrap wrestling match for leftovers

If you have trouble getting your cling wrap to cooperate (and who doesn’t?), store it in the refrigerator for a while. Chilling your cling wrap will temporarily reduce its “stickiness,” making it much easier to use.

7. Dish-drying hack

Are you tired of your dishes still being wet after you clean them in the dishwasher? Place a clean dish towel within the dishwasher’s door once the cleaning cycle is complete, close it and wait five minutes, then — voila! Your dishes will be dry and ready to put away.

8. Easy butter softening trick

Need softened butter for a recipe or just easier spreading? Microwaving often melts your butter into a puddle, which may not be what you want. First, measure and unwrap the amount of butter you need. Cut the butter into thin slices or small chunks and leave out of the fridge — in around 10 minutes you’ll have softened butter.

9. Salvage hardened brown sugar

If your brown sugar has hardened into an unusable block, don’t toss it out — instead, place a slice of fresh bread along with the brown sugar in an airtight container. After about a day, the sugar will have absorbed moisture from the bread to make it soft and crumbly again. This is also a great use for the ends of bread that nobody wants for their sandwiches!

These tips will help make your kitchen management and mealtimes a lot easier. If you delight in providing convenient and delicious meals at home while using tips and tricks, visit BobEvansGrocery.com/Become-Bob-Evans-Replacement-Spokesperson to enter to become the next Bob Evans spokesperson!

To find Bob Evans products, recipe inspiration and a retailer near you, visit BobEvansGrocery.com.

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The most affordable way to create your forever home? Above-floor plumbing

2024-05-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – Buying a home may not be the wisest idea in today’s housing market. If you bought or refinanced your home in early 2022, you likely were able to take advantage of a low interest rate and lower your monthly payments. However, if you’re considering selling your current abode and finding your forever home now, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage has nearly doubled over the last two years.

You don’t have to compromise your dreams. With some planning, you can turn your house into your forever home without breaking the bank.

For example, you may consider adding a laundry room, bathroom or outdoor kitchen. Not only do these renovations make your home more enjoyable, but they can also add value to your home. According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners would recover 75% of the cost of a kitchen renovation and 71% of a bathroom renovation in their home’s increased value.

Of course, adding, renovating or moving a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room has its challenges. A common roadblock you may face during remodeling is plumbing limitations.

Plumbing challenges

If you want to add a new bathroom or kitchen, you may find the space doesn’t have below-floor draining. According to Tom McGuire, a seasoned plumbing professional and owner of McGuire Group LLC, adding below-floor drainage for sinks, showers, tubs and toilets can cost a pretty penny.

When adding a laundry room to a 50-year-old home, McGuire estimated that installing new conventional plumbing drainage would require him to rip up and replace his hardwood floors. That process, he estimates, would have cost at least $5,000, plus an additional $6,000 to cut the concrete beneath and run new piping.

Similarly, homeowners must consider the lack of conventional plumbing lines when installing a kitchen, indoors or outdoors. When New Jersey residents Katie and Patrick Comer wanted to add a wet bar with a sink to their finished basement, they found their home’s plumbing limited their options.

Because the basement floor was below the home’s existing sewer line, wastewater from the bar sink would have to be discharged vertically into the home’s plumbing drainage. In order to connect the below-floor line to the closest sewer access, the project would have to be outsourced to a contractor, increasing costs significantly.

DIY couple Amber and Trey Masciarelli encountered similar problems when adding a bathroom to their basement. With cost- and time-savings in mind, the Masciarellis had to decide if the conventional route of breaking through the basement’s concrete floor to install drainage fit into their remodeling plan or if they’d have to give up the project.

An affordable alternative to traditional plumbing

When conventional below-floor plumbing hinders homeowners’ forever home plans, it’s time to consider alternatives. What is the best, most affordable solution to these potential problems? Above-floor plumbing.

Unlike below-floor plumbing, above-floor plumbing pumps waste and water up and out to the nearest sewer line. During McGuire’s remodel project, he chose a Saniflo gray water drain pump to handle drainage from his home’s washing machine. This solution allowed him to avoid cutting up the hardwood floor and concrete and easily install a new line to the local sewer line.

In the Comers’ project, Katie’s father and brother helped the couple with a Saniflo heavy-duty gray water drain pump. The simple, compact solution didn’t take up a lot of space in the basement and solved their drainage problems. “Bringing the vision of my dream basement to life has been a wonderful experience,” said Katie Comer. “Not only is the bar fully functional, but it’s also aesthetically pleasing, and we didn’t have to break the bank to make our vision a reality.”

The Masciarellis were pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to install the Sanibest Pro. They completed the installation in just two days. “When you first look at the unit, it can be intimidating,” explains Amber. “But we watched the online videos, read the instructions and started dry-fitting components. We soon realized how easy it is to install.”

Choose the best products for your dream home renovations

If you plan to use above-floor plumbing to add a kitchen, laundry room or bathroom to your home, pick durable, affordable and reliable products like Saniflo Drain Pumps and Macerators and Grinders.

If you’re planning kitchen and bathroom projects, you’ll want a rugged, affordable and easy-to-install solution like the Saniswift Pro.

With Saniflo’s above-floor plumbing technology, you can decide where a new kitchen or laundry room will go. The Saniswift Pro’s pump design offers quick installation in hard-to-reach, below-sink spaces.

You’re no longer limited to locations where downhill drainage or gravity evacuates waste. The pump also does not need to be near the main waste pipe as it can discharge waste up to 14 feet vertically and/or 140 feet horizontally. Also, the Saniswift Pro is engineered to extend the pump’s overall lifecycle while eliminating unwanted odors. Servicing can be done without disconnecting any piping to the unit.

When tackling a full or half bathroom installation, the heavy-duty Sanibest Pro is an excellent, adaptable solution. The grinder pump combines a rear-discharge toilet with a 1-horsepower pump system usually situated on the floor.

Designed for bathrooms frequently used by visitors and full-time home residents, the system can provide drainage for a complete bathroom, including a toilet, sink, and tub or shower. The wastewater from the toilet drains into the pump unit, which incorporates a powerful clog-fighting grinder system to quickly reduce the incoming effluent before discharging it to a sewer or septic system.

Not only is the Sanibest Pro a great alternative to traditional bathroom plumbing, but it’s also a great replacement for an existing macerator. When Scott Wright was searching for an above-ground grinder pump toilet to replace his loud and inefficient macerator, he knew he needed a heavy-duty model that could handle frequent usage.

Wright eventually settled on the Sanibest Pro and was excited when it solved his noise and flooding issues. “It flushes better, it cleans the bowl better, and it’s not as bulky as the previous unit. The other day, even my son noticed it’s much quieter than the one we had before.”

Don’t let below-ground plumbing hold you back from turning your house into your forever home. To learn more about how above-floor plumbing can help you add a kitchen, bath or laundry room to your current space, visit Saniflo.com.

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Spray Texture 101

2024-05-01T10:23:00

(BPT) – From adding a touch of dimension on ceilings to making a bold statement on accent walls, texture is playing a larger role in home décor. The use of visual texture can help elevate a home’s elegance and style in a way that paint and wallpaper can’t. One of the ways homeowners can do this is with spray texture. Spray texture is an accessible and versatile material that can transform bland walls and ceilings into captivating focal points. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, spray texture also serves a practical purpose by concealing imperfections left behind during drywall finishing, making it an asset for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What is spray texture?

Spray texture is a material applied to walls or ceilings to create a textured surface. It typically comes as a pre-mixed or ready-to-use substance in pressurized cans or sprayers. There are three common textures found in houses today: Orange Peel, Knockdown and Popcorn. Easily paintable, spray texture can be combined with the latest trends in wall and ceiling colors to help redefine any living space.

Is the popularity of spray texture growing in homes?

While texture is a popular design element all over the U.S., textured walls and ceilings tend to be more prevalent in the southern and particularly western states in the U.S., as textured surfaces complement the desert-inspired aesthetics and rustic decor often found in these regions. In fact, 50% of the spray texture market is in the west, and 29% is in the south.

Why would you use spray texture?

Texture is often added to interior drywall surfaces to add visual interest and aesthetic appeal, but it can also be used as part of the finishing process to hide any drywall imperfections from the installation process. Achieving flawless smooth surfaces can be challenging, and any mistakes made during the drywall finishing process become readily apparent. This is where wall and ceiling texture comes in. For DIY enthusiasts grappling with the intricacies of drywall finishing, texture can be a lifesaver. Handheld spray cans of spray texture, like the ones from DAP, provide a quick and easy way to apply and repair texture.

Where do you use spray texture in the home?

Spray texture can be used in various areas of the home to add visual interest to walls and ceilings. Some common areas where spray texture is applied include accent walls in living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms to add depth and character to the space. It can also be used to help disguise uneven surfaces and add warmth to basement spaces, making them feel more inviting and comfortable. Overall, spray texture can be used throughout the home to enhance its aesthetic appeal and create a more dynamic and visually appealing environment.

How do you apply spray texture?

When applying spray texture, it’s important to start by choosing the right product for your needs. First, determine what type of texture you want to apply or repair — orange peel, knockdown or popcorn. Most people are familiar with popcorn, but orange peel texture resembles the surface of an orange with small, slightly raised bumps while knockdown texture features a smooth surface with intermittent flattened areas created by knocking down the texture while wet. After choosing the type of texture, look for user-friendly features such as an adjustable nozzle that also provides the ability to select the level of texture, like the line from DAP. When using DAP’s 2in1 spray textures, start by shaking the can for at least one full minute after hearing the marble, unlock the can, then adjust the 60-degree nozzle to the angle you need. Next, twist the nozzle to your desired level of texture whether fine, medium or heavy. Once shaken, you’re ready to spray! All of DAP’s water-based formulas are paint ready in just 30 minutes, and oil-based formulas are paint ready in five.

Best Practices (or Do’s & Don’ts) for Great Texture Results

  • Shake can for at least 1 minute after hearing marble. Do not stop shaking just because you can hear the marble, and do not stop shaking even if you think the contents are mixed — the one minute is important!
  • Shake the can during use to keep pressure consistency
  • Spray at least 12 inches away from the wall — if you spray too close, texture could be runny and texture may not be as defined as desired
  • Spray should be applied in short, intermittent bursts with random patterns such as circular sprays, up and down as well as left to right — it’s important to vary the spray motion with a combination of the patterns — do NOT spray in rows and do not spray in a continuous manner
  • If using knockdown — be sure putty knife is parallel to the wall and NOT perpendicular — a perpendicular knife will remove the texture

For more information about spray texture and additional DIY tips, visit DAP.com.

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Lawn and beyond: The powerful benefits of natural turfgrass

2024-05-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – Healthy, natural turfgrass is more than just a pleasing addition to your yard and home’s curb appeal. Natural turfgrass is among the most resilient plant materials and provides many benefits that can improve your quality of life and the environment. There are countless turfgrass species and cultivars that are adapted to different climates and uses, and researchers from universities and companies like ScottsMiracle-Gro are driving innovation in this area as the environment and consumer needs continue to shift.

“Natural turfgrass is often misunderstood,” says Dr. Kelly Kopp, Extension Water Conservation and Turfgrass Specialist at Utah State University. “Misconceptions and misinformation have given it a bad reputation in some circles. But the truth is that natural turfgrass has the potential to foster a healthier environment and provides a multitude of benefits to the individual, local communities, and the planet.”

The benefits of natural turfgrass

According to Dr. Kopp, natural turfgrass can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainability. As a groundcover, it prevents soil erosion, slows the flow of stormwater, filters nutrients out of stormwater, and improves soil structure. Like all living plants, it also absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, trapping carbon underground and reducing atmospheric concentrations. It is also proven to lower atmospheric temperatures, which are increasing in certain areas known as urban heat islands.

Ecosystems also benefit from natural turfgrass. It provides a habitat for wildlife, from bees to birds to bugs, while also supporting the growth of native species of plants.

Growing natural turfgrass helps create a more resilient environment, too. During a storm, the roots stabilize soil, slowing water runoff and preventing erosion. They also act as natural water filters, keeping contaminants from entering local water systems. Dr. Matthew Koch, Director of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Grass Seed at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, explains that diverse varieties of natural turfgrass species are even more beneficial for rainwater absorption than one species alone. Dr. Koch explains, “Different natural turfgrass species have different root structures. Some are deeper and more extensive, while others are shallower. The diversity of roots helps to improve soil structure which reduces erosion and enhances water absorption.”

Along with the many ecological and environmental benefits, natural turfgrass is also beneficial for mental health and well-being. According to Scotts’ The Benefits of Lawn report, natural grasses and other ornamental plants can reduce noise levels by 20-30%,[1] creating a tranquil environment, which is especially helpful in loud, urban areas, and allows for outdoor play and recreation. Studies have also shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce cortisol levels, which are associated with stress.

Cultivating sponge cities with natural turfgrass

Natural turfgrass has an important role to play in cities, says Dr. Kopp, especially in large urban areas prone to storms.

Many urban areas face challenges when excessive rainfall overwhelms inadequate stormwater management systems. During a heavy storm, rain cannot infiltrate the concrete and asphalt that dominate traditional urban areas, and this causes flooding. Instead of building more impervious surfaces, Dr. Kopp says cities should utilize the water retention and infiltration properties that natural turfgrass provides by increasing its use in green spaces and cultivating “sponge cities.”

The idea behind sponge cities is fairly simple: increase green spaces using natural turfgrass and other plants, replacing impervious concrete and asphalt where possible, to reduce flooding. By increasing green spaces in cities and large urban areas with trees, plants, natural turfgrass and other green infrastructure, the landscape is better equipped to absorb rainfall and filter water efficiently. Similarly to the way grass prevents soil erosion during storms on your lawn, natural turfgrass and other green elements can reduce the burden on stormwater runoff systems and mitigate flooding. In fact, lawns can balance out 100% of runoff from roofs, drives, and streets that are connected to storm sewers and convey stormwater directly to streams or lakes (see Footnote 1).

Combating urban heat islands

Flooding isn’t the only challenge cities face that natural turfgrass can help solve. Because concrete and asphalt materials can’t absorb and release water efficiently, they can’t cool the environment. In fact, these impermeable materials retain a great amount of heat. Combined with high population densities, cities with large impervious areas can easily turn into heat islands.

Urban heat islands occur when cities experience warmer temperatures than nearby rural areas, which tend to be less developed and have more green space. In turn, those green spaces hold less heat and have grasses, trees, shrubs, and other natural features that keep the area cooler than nearby cities. According to Climate Central’s Hot Zones: Urban Heat Islands report, trees and vegetation, alone or in combination with shading, can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2–9°F (1–5°C) in an urban area.[2]

Adding natural turfgrass can help reduce city temperature, preventing the urban heat island effect. Dr. Kopp explains that when natural turfgrass absorbs water through its roots, it moves through the plant becoming water vapor that is then released into the air through grass leaves, naturally cooling the environment. Whether in parks, greenways, or lawns, more natural turfgrass in urban landscapes can keep the environment cooler and reduce heat-related risks.

Transform your landscape for the better

From promoting sustainability and biodiversity to mitigating flooding and combating urban heat islands, natural turfgrass has much to offer.

Scotts, a leader in lawn care for more than a century and a half, leverages scientific research and qualified experts to educate and inform the public about the benefits of natural turfgrass while continuously innovating its products to adapt to the changing environment and homeowners’ needs.

To learn more about the power of natural turfgrass and how you can transform your landscape for the better, visit Scotts.com.


[1] The Scotts Company. (2002, July). The Benefits of Lawns: A Balanced Look at Published Information.

[2] Climate Central. (2021, July 14). Hot Zones: Urban Heat Islands.

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Honor Mothers by Improving Maternal Health Care

2024-05-01T15:31:00

(BPT) – On Mother’s Day, we celebrate moms across the U.S., and their journey to and through motherhood that can be beautiful, messy, and sometimes overwhelming. From gathering information about their care to scheduling appointments, and making decisions about their health and nutrition, moms have a complex journey to navigate — and this journey isn’t the same for everyone. The good news is that there are opportunities to help improve the experience and health outcomes for all.

Recognizing the need for innovative ways to improve maternal health, the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions researched how digital tools, like apps, patient portals, and health care websites, could improve the maternity journey by addressing health care disparities and improving access to care for all birthing persons.

Deloitte found that digital tools could boost maternal health empowerment, with nearly three out of four respondents using digital tools to manage specific health needs. Through digital tools, moms and families can be empowered with data, gain access to culturally informed care, and amplify community voices for greater transparency and accountability.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women. Deloitte’s research found that Black, mixed-race, and Hispanic respondents were twice as likely as White respondents to say that digital tools for maternal health did not meet their personal needs or align with their cultural backgrounds. Deloitte’s report included interviews with experts that suggest digital tools and resources appear to lack diversity in their design and may not have been designed with inclusivity and user experience in mind, which is critical to tool adoption and impact. Yet, across all races, Deloitte found that more than four out of five respondents are willing to be involved all throughout the development process for tools.

“Our research suggests that the use of digital tools has the potential to address gaps in access to care and empower moms to manage their health, which is critically important for improving maternal health outcomes in the U.S.,” said Kulleni Gebreyes, M.D., Deloitte U.S. Consulting Life Sciences and health care leader and U.S. chief health equity officer. “When we surveyed expectant mothers about their experiences with digital tools, we learned that these tools aren’t necessarily designed with all moms in mind.”

According to the Deloitte report, this could mean providing the information in different languages for comprehension, showing what conditions or risk factors might look like on different skin tones, or accounting for cultural stigmas related to certain topics like mental health. Designing health apps that are free from bias is essential to ensure everyone has access to the tools they need to improve their health.

Moms Know Best: 5 Ways to Improve Maternal Health

When it comes to making changes to improve maternal and children’s health, moms say it’s important for clinicians to listen and to understand their lived experience and develop tools with their unique needs in mind:

  • Making Tools Affordable: Nearly half of moms surveyed said reducing the cost of these tools is crucial. Technology companies are working on making apps more affordable and accessible for all moms.
  • Simplifying Your Choices: With so many apps and websites available, moms reported feeling overwhelmed. Resources are being developed to help moms choose the tools that best fit their needs. Imagine a central hub with clear reviews and recommendations of resources from other moms.
  • Information Made Easy: Nearly one in three moms surveyed felt stressed by the sheer amount of information available. Digital tools are being designed to be user-friendly and present information in a way that’s easy to understand and navigate. Think bite-sized chunks, clear visuals, and multiple language options.
  • Seamless Connections: A quarter of moms reported difficulty using different tools because they don’t “talk” to each other. The future is looking bright: Tech companies are developing ways for these tools to work together seamlessly, sharing data with your doctor for a more comprehensive picture of your health.
  • Listen to Moms: One in three moms surveyed said that they felt their health care teams did not frequently listen to their needs, believe what they were saying, integrate their preferences into their care plan, or treat them fairly and justly. Health care providers should understand people’s unique experiences and create care teams with shared cultural similarities or lived experiences, particularly for patients from historically marginalized backgrounds.

Health care executives and clinicians need to have bold action on addressing maternal health inequities. One preventable death is one too many. Executives can look at their data, identify gaps and prioritize improvement strategies.

This Mother’s Day let’s celebrate not just a single journey but the journeys of all moms with dignity, the best care possible, and with empathy. Together, we can help build a future where every mother feels empowered, supported, and heard on the path to parenthood. Healthy mothers can contribute to healthy communities, and that’s a reason to celebrate!

To learn more about Deloitte’s findings, read the full report: “Maternal health inequities persist. Can digital tools be part of the solutions?”

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Top 4 Reasons To Become a Mental Health First Aid Instructor

2024-05-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Have you experienced or known someone who has experienced a mental health or substance use challenge? Mental health conditions are common, manageable and treatable — and more likely than you may think. Almost half of people in the U.S. will experience a mental health condition at some point during their lifetime, with symptoms often emerging in childhood or adolescence. For individuals at any age, asking for help can be difficult, and many of us don’t know where to start.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a research-based training program that teaches adults how to recognize and respond to someone who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. At the core of the program are its Instructors, who have trained more than 3.7 million Mental Health First Aiders since the program was first introduced in the United States in 2008.

This May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a chance for you to make an impact in your community with evidence-based training, resources and tools. If you feel motivated to help members of your community navigate challenges to their wellbeing, consider becoming an MHFA Instructor. MHFA is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges, including how to recognize early signs and symptoms and provide initial support until professional help is available.

Who can become an MHFA Instructor?

No specific academic or professional credentials are required to become an MHFA Instructor. Applicants to an Adult or Youth MHFA Instructor training course must first hold an active First Aider certification in that curriculum. As an Instructor, you’ll play an important role in the lives of those experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, largely because you teach and model how to offer help.

What do MHFA Instructors do?

Instructors are key to spreading MHFA. They teach the MHFA course with fidelity to the core program model and key messages. MHFA offers a range of comprehensive skills-based early-intervention courses, and achieving Instructor designation in MHFA’s community-specific courses allows you to tailor your teaching to the community around you.

Core responsibilities for certified Instructors include:

  • Teach an MHFA course at least three times per year.
  • Create, market and coordinate their classes, supporting learners along the way.
  • Tailor curriculum and discussions to their learners, including compiling a list of local resources for help.

Why should I become an MHFA Instructor?

Some people feel called to become Instructors to give back to their communities. Others feel passionate about mental wellbeing because of their experiences. Here are the top four reasons to become an MHFA Instructor:

1. Connect

MHFA Instructors bring members of the community together, giving them a sense of belonging, support and purpose.

As an Instructor, you’ll create a safe space and open dialogue with members of your community; deepen their understanding of their neighbors, friends, family and peers; and equip them with skills to go out into the world and strengthen their own communities. You’ll also be joining a built-in community of mental health champions and have an opportunity to connect with like-minded peers.

2. Advocate

Stigma — negative attitudes surrounding people with mental health and substance use challenges — can keep people from important life opportunities and getting help.

Studies have shown that MHFA training improves knowledge, reduces stigma and increases first aid actions toward people with mental health challenges. In your role as an Instructor, you’ll have the power to help change attitudes about mental health and substance use, and help create a more equitable, kind and understanding world.

3. Educate

There are many mental health services available across the U.S. However, 43% of U.S. adults who say they needed substance use or mental health care in the past 12 months did not receive that care. Why? It’s directly related to poor mental health literacy, including misconceptions about therapies and treatments.

As an MHFA Instructor, you can help others learn and understand more about common mental health and substance use challenges, and you can increase the likelihood that they’ll help someone. You’ll be able to access a library of expert-curated curricula and materials to help you through every step in your teaching journey. By building mental health literacy, you can make a difference in someone’s life.

4. Lead

MHFA Instructors empower other individuals to be the first line of support for a person in need and contribute to a healthier community. As an Instructor, you will also help us ensure that everyone in America has a close friend they can turn to before a mental health or substance use challenge becomes a crisis.

As an Instructor, you’ll also be able to gain opportunities and add a revenue stream, while increasing your mental health literacy and advancing your professional development.

How do I become an MHFA Instructor?

First, get certified as a Mental Health First Aider. Instructor training focuses on how to teach the curriculum. You’ll spend about three days in Instructor training, plus time spent doing pre- and post-work.

Once certified, you’ll have access to National Council webinars and annual conferences and be able to tap into an online community where Instructors can connect, ask questions, share resources and support each other.

Learn more about how you can become an Instructor and join an upcoming informational webinar.

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How colleges and universities can support adult learners navigating a changing world

2024-05-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – The world is always changing — for better or for worse — but the last few years have transformed society rapidly. Handling these changes in current responsibilities can be incredibly overwhelming and for some people, it has resulted in poor mental health.

This May, Mental Health America is observing Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental behavioral health issues, with the theme, “Mental Health in a Changing World.”

The month’s theme could not come at a more opportune time, given the prevalence of mental illness in the U.S. The National Council for Mental Wellbeing found that one in five adults in the U.S. experienced mental illness in 2021. Of those adults, 47% received treatment.

While mental illness can impact anyone, adult learners who are balancing their personal lives with professional and educational pursuits need special attention.

Balancing life, school and mental well-being

Adult learners account for more than 24% of the 12.8 million enrolled students pursuing an undergraduate degree during the period, according to a survey by The Best Schools. These students face challenges not typically experienced by traditionally aged learners (18-24).

Oftentimes, adult learners must juggle their education and existing professional responsibilities, as more than two in three adult learners in 2022 were employed either full- or part-time while pursuing their degrees. Making time for education can be difficult, and some students are forced to choose between completing an assignment and receiving a steady paycheck.

Family obligations are another area in which adult learners differ from their traditional counterparts. The survey found that nearly half of older learners who enrolled in spring 2020 reported they had dependent children. Only about 3% of students 18-24 reported the same.

Managing school, work and family is challenging, and even more so in a changing environment. That’s why it’s crucial now more than ever that adult learners receive mental health support from their educational institutions.

How higher education institutions can help

Colleges and universities have an opportunity to play a pivotal role in the mental well-being of their adult learners.

“The role mental health support and academic resources play in the personal and professional success of adult learners cannot be overstated,” says Agnam Memeti, DeVry University’s chief enrollment and student support officer. “Higher education institutions must find ways to create an environment that fosters mental health awareness and promotes well-being for all students, including adult learners.”

The majority of DeVry students are at least 26 years old and more than half are parents supporting children and other dependents. With so many adult learners, it’s no surprise that the university is proactive in supporting adult learners’ mental health and well-being. DeVry provides them with academic support, mental health resources and flexibility scheduling that they require due to their busy lives balancing work, school and family.

For example, the DeVry CARE Formula demonstrates the institution’s commitment to student success. All students are provided with a personalized support team that includes a student support advisor and career advisor. Students can also receive support through the StudentLinc program, which offers an array of emotional well-being and life-balance resources and support whenever and wherever needed free of charge.

Through StudentLinc, students can receive help addressing everyday issues through short-term counseling from licensed clinicians available 24/7, 365 days a year; therapy via text with licensed counselors Monday through Friday; and digital group support via live sessions hosted by licensed counselors. Other resources available include training, and referrals to help address challenges like child or elder care, adoption, pet care, home repair, education and housing.

If a student isn’t sure what assistance they need, they can access a Mental Health Navigator to receive personalized guidance for program support and resources. Beyond mental health support, StudentLinc also provides free legal consultations with a local attorney, consultations with financial experts and more via phone, the web and mobile apps.

“Mental health isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey,” adds Memeti. “At DeVry, we want to make sure that all our students, whether traditional or adult learners, have the resources they need to complete their education while prioritizing their well-being.”

To learn more about the ways DeVry University supports all students, visit DeVry.edu.

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Americans say an hour of their time is worth $240, according to new Empower research

2024-05-01T08:09:00

(BPT) – Time is money, and there’s a premium: Americans say their time is worth $240 per hour, on average, according to new research from Empower, a financial services company. Based on a standard 40-hour week, that puts the perceived value at $499,200 per year — nearly eight times higher than the average U.S. salary of $59,384.1 One third of people set the price at under $50 per hour, though 1 in 4 Millennials value their time at over $500 per hour — the highest of any generation (just 6% of Boomers name that rate).

Many Americans are racing against the clock when it comes to financial goals: half think they’re running out of time to save for retirement, even though 44% say they started putting money away early enough. Another 43% wish they could go back in time to start saving sooner, and half (48%) would rather have a longer retirement period with less money, than retire later in life with more.

People may be further along than they think. According to Empower Personal Dashboard™ data, the average 401(k) balance clocks in at $291,810 and for people in their 50s approaching retirement age, the number jumps to $580,2592 — one key measure of overall personal savings and investments.

Additional key findings:

  • Spending time wisely: The average price of 60 minutes varies: Millennials say it’s worth $328.84 per hour, followed by Gen Z at $266.92, Gen X at $215.90 and Boomers at $137.19. Based on this study’s findings of how Americans value their time, two hours of meetings at work cost close to $500 per person; catching nightly Z’s costs nearly $2,000 a day (or close to $60,000 a month).
  • Less is more: 1 in 4 people (26%) are willing to take a 15% pay cut to gain more free time. 40% would rather pay to make life easier right now than to save and have more money later and more than 2 in 5 say outsourcing household tasks gives them a better work/life balance (41%).
  • Cost of convenience: 36% would rather pay more to get an item delivered instead of driving 10 minutes to get it. A third of Gen Z (30%) would pay up to $5,000 per year to save time not doing everyday tasks like cleaning and yard work, and 36% of Millennials would shell out up to $10,000 for someone to take on in-house chores and cook meals.
  • AI to save time: 21% would use AI to recommend money moves to plan for retirement, help pay bills on time (25%) and make a budget by examining personal financial accounts (23%).
  • Time on money: 26% would spend $5,000 per year to have someone else manage their long-term financials, investments, and savings. More than a third of Americans admit to procrastinating money tasks like paying their bills.
  • Clocking in: 44% say they wish they could work part-time, but can’t afford it. More than a third (32%) say they want to start their own business, but don’t have the time.
  • The luxury of time: 6 in 10 people (63%) “feel wealthy” if they have enough time to spend with family and friends. Nearly a third feel comfortable taking on debt if it buys more free time (29%) or a memorable experience (29%). Nearly 2 in 5 say saving time is more important than saving money (37%).

Sign of the times

Americans are having to work alongside the wider economy on their journey to hit their goals. Though 30% of adults are not keeping track of any financial “signs of the times,” around a quarter are keeping an eye on shrinkflation (24%), as product sizes get smaller for the same or more cost. It can be a struggle, as more than 3 in 4 Americans believe they’re doing as much as they can to save money while shopping (76%). Some 22% of Americans are also keeping track of their ability to retire and when (22%), as nearly half (48%) worry about how they’ll pay for expenses once they’re no longer working.

Americans are watching the strength of the job market (21%), and cryptocurrency (19%). The same amount are keeping an eye on volatility in the stock market. Compounding gains can play an essential role in building wealth and 3 in 10 people say they would have invested in a popular stock if they could go back in time.

The time is now

Time is of the essence as people work toward streamlining their lives and focusing on what matters most to them, amid commitments across work and home that can affect their financial happiness. More than half of Millennials (52%) and 37% overall think saving time is more important than saving money.

For many, getting advice early on is key: nearly 1 in 5 would have worked with a financial professional sooner. Overall, Americans remain optimistic, with 78% saying it’s never too late to start focusing on your finances.

Methodology

Empower commissioned the “Time is Money” survey, which is based on online survey responses from 2,204 Americans ages 18+ and fielded by Morning Consult from March 11-14, 2024.

1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Dec 2023. Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages.

2 Anonymized user data from the Empower Personal Dashboard™ as of March 2024.

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Do you have asthma? Help protect yourself against a potentially serious bacterial lung disease

2024-05-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – May is Asthma Awareness Month, an annual effort aimed at improving the lives of people with asthma and educating the broader community about it. It is also a time when people with asthma can experience more symptoms or flare-ups because of increased triggers in their environment. These triggers may include excess pollen in the air, grass, pollution, other airborne irritants and even temperature changes.

However, there are steps you can take this spring. Here are a few to consider this season, so you can stop and smell the flowers:

  • Minimize allergy triggers in the home by regularly washing your bedsheets, using an air purifier, cleaning vents and vacuuming your floor
  • Exercise regularly by swimming, hiking, doing yoga and walking
  • Develop an asthma action plan with your doctor that includes treatment and symptom management approaches
  • Get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia since adults 19-64 with asthma are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can put you in the hospital and even be life-threatening.

Adults 19-64 with asthma, or certain underlying medical conditions like diabetes, chronic heart disease and COPD, are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia. In fact, if you’re 18-49 with asthma, you’re at 5x greater risk for pneumococcal pneumonia compared to healthy adults in the same range.

Adults 65 or older are also at increased risk as they are at over 10x greater risk of being hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia compared to adults younger than 50.

If you fall into any of these groups, it’s important to know that getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself.

Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike at any time, in any season. There’s a misconception that you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia in the winter or during flu season, but you can get it any time of year. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is a great time to assess if pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination is right for you.

Even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia previously, your healthcare provider may recommend another vaccination for additional protection.

So, take this month as an opportunity to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination and visit PfizerVax.com to schedule a vaccination today.

Brought to you by Pfizer.