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Alleviating the mental burden of type 1 diabetes through medical technology

2021-03-11T08:53:00

(BPT) – When Natasha McLean’s son, Mason, was just over a year old, she noticed some of his behaviors began to change drastically. He started excessively urinating, significantly more than he ever had before, accompanied by extreme mood swings and a tangible increase in appetite. Thinking it was a phase, she monitored his behavior and waited for it to pass, but after it persisted, Natasha conducted some research and realized her son was likely diabetic.

The family’s pediatrician confirmed her suspicion — Mason was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 16 months. From there, Natasha and her family were immediately rushed to the hospital where they remained for two days, accompanied by near-daily visits for the next two weeks.

Approximately 1.6 million Americans are living with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease in which the body can’t make insulin, the hormone needed for sugar (glucose) to enter cells and produce energy. When it can’t enter the cells, sugar stays in the bloodstream and builds up, which can cause serious illness if not treated.[1]

To manage type 1, insulin is taken throughout the day via either multiple daily injections (MDI) from an insulin pen, or use of an insulin pump, and glucose levels are monitored on a constant basis.[1] It’s a 24/7 disease that requires constant management, continuously and carefully balancing insulin dosing with eating, exercise, and other activities. When children or adolescents are diagnosed with diabetes, it changes the day-to-day lives of the entire family, with parents and caregivers playing a large role in the monitoring of the disease.

“Because Mason is only two, he isn’t old enough yet to tell me how he’s feeling, which adds an extra challenge for me when monitoring his sugar and insulin levels,” said Natasha. “It can be overwhelming and all-consuming, which adds additional stress on top of the normal anxiety that comes with parenting a young child.”

Recently, the MiniMedTM 770G system was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as the first-of-its-kind automated insulin delivery and monitoring system available to children as young as two.[2] The hybrid closed loop system automatically adjusts background insulin every five minutes and is able to calculate a personalized amount of insulin based on the sensor sugar.[3] It also allows parents or other caregivers to see pump and glucose data remotely on their smartphones, with alerts for when sugar levels go out of range.[4]

“I can now monitor Mason’s pump and glucose data remotely on my phone, and I get an alert if his sugar levels swing too high or low,” said Natasha. “This has resulted in full nights of sleep for my husband and I for the first time since Mason’s diagnosis, rather than taking turns monitoring his sugars manually all day and night.[5] We’re also able to check his levels on our smartphone during the day, instead of interrupting him while he’s playing, and chasing him around to check his glucose levels — giving him and me freedom we didn’t have before.”

If you or your child has type 1 diabetes, talk to your doctor to learn more about the MiniMed 770G. Product details are available at medtronicdiabetes.com/770G.

[1] Type 1 diabetes. Mayo Clinic. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20353011. Accessed February 4, 2021.

[2] FDA Approves First-of-its-Kind Automated Insulin Delivery and Monitoring System for Use in Young Pediatric Patients. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Available at https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-its-kind-automated-insulin-delivery-and-monitoring-system-use-young-pediatric. Accessed February 4, 2021.

[3] Refers to SmartGuard™ Auto mode. Some user interaction required. Individual results may vary.

[4] MiniMed 770G System. Medtronic Diabetes. Available at https://www.medtronic.com/us-en/healthcare-professionals/products/diabetes/insulin-pump-systems/minimed-770g.html. Accessed February 4, 2021.

[5] New research shows how to keep diabetics safer during sleep. Available at https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2014/05/08/new-research-keeps-diabetics-safer-during-sleep/. Accessed February 4, 2021.

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Top tips for optimal eye care

2021-03-11T08:01:01

(BPT) – If you spend any extended length of time working on a screen, it’s possible that your eyes could be suffering from neglect and overwork. Fortunately, there are a few simple things you can do to help safeguard your optical health.

“Even if you don’t currently experience vision problems or have concerns about your optical health, it’s important to take proactive steps now,” says Chris DeSantis, senior vice president, GMM, sundries and services, BJ’s Wholesale Club.

Get regular exams

Having your eyes checked on schedule and keeping up to date on your prescriptions for glasses or contacts is crucial to maintaining your best possible vision and proper eye health.

BJ’s Wholesale Club has updated and redesigned their Optical Centers to be even more convenient and accessible and have implemented additional protocols to help keep members safe and healthy. At BJ’s Optical, members will find an even larger, high-quality frame assortment for the whole family, along with top contact lens brands and innovative prescription eyeglass lenses that can be customized to suit any lifestyle — all at an incredible value. That includes stylish designer name brands plus BJ’s exclusive Berkley Jensen and Club DeCode frames. You can also order contact lenses from BJs.com/Optical with free delivery, saving both time and money.

Protect your eyes

When you’re outdoors, be sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. The National Eye Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health, recommends wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation for maximum eye protection.

When you do yardwork, home improvement projects or hobbies such as woodworking, which could risk debris getting into or near your eyes, it’s important to wear protective goggles to help prevent injury.

You can also protect your eyes by washing your hands thoroughly and refraining from touching your eyes as much as possible in order to prevent infection.

If your eyes are itchy from allergies, try not to rub them as you increase the risk of scratching. Instead, apply allergy eye drops (only as recommended), without letting the dropper tip touch any part of your eyes, face or hands.

Give them a rest

Focusing on a screen for a fixed length of time can be rough on how your eyes feel and on your vision.

Medlineplus.gov recommends the easy-to-remember 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, pause to look about 20 feet away from your screen for at least 20 seconds. You may want to set your phone or computer alarm at 20-minute intervals to remind you to look away from your screen periodically throughout the day.

In addition, take a few minutes each hour to gently close your eyes for a minute, and try to get in the habit of regular, slow blinking during your workday to help keep your eyes adequately moisturized. Dry eyes can also benefit from an air moisturizer, especially during the winter or if you live in a dry climate.

Need new glasses, contacts and/or an eye exam for you or your family? Visit BJs.com/Optical for more information or to order contact lenses directly.

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Routine Checkups, Vaccines are Essential During COVID-19 – and for In-Person School and Play

2021-03-10T16:31:00

(BPT) – COVID-19 has caused many disruptions in families’ lives — and in some cases, it has meant that children have missed or delayed their wellness checkups and vaccinations. These routine checkups, however, are a critical part of ensuring children stay healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that children stay on track with their well-child appointments and routine vaccinations — even during COVID-19.

Well-child visits are essential. At these appointments you can track your child’s developmental milestones, discuss any concerns about your child’s health, and get your child vaccinated to help protect them from 14 serious diseases.

“We know it has been challenging for parents to manage so many responsibilities during this pandemic,” said Lee Beers, MD, FAAP, president of the AAP. “As a parent of school-aged children myself, I understand that. But now is the time to get your children caught up on their immunizations and well visits, and your pediatrician wants to help. As things open back up, children will need the protection that vaccinations give them.”

As schools continue to re-open and warmer weather brings more opportunities for in-person, physically distanced activities, CDC recommends checking with your child’s healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on recommended vaccines. You and your child’s doctor can make a plan to ensure your child stays on track — and that your child is ready for school and play.

In recent years, gaps in vaccinations against vaccine-preventable diseases — particularly measles — have caused outbreaks. These contagious diseases can pose serious risks and complications for infants and young children. Getting vaccinated following the recommended schedule allows children to build immunity before they may be exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases.

You have the power to protect your child’s health through on-time vaccination. Many doctors’ offices and clinics are taking steps to ensure your safety and prevent the spread of COVID-19, including:

  • Scheduling sick visits and well-child visits during different times of the day
  • Limiting the number of people in waiting rooms
  • Offering sick visits and well-child visits in different locations
  • Providing curbside visits or mobile vaccination options

There are resources available about regular checkups and routine vaccinations during this time that will help answer your questions, such as:

Which vaccines does my child need?

Check out CDC’s easy-to-read childhood immunization schedule to see the vaccines recommended for each age and the diseases they prevent. If your child missed a vaccine, they should be caught up as soon as possible using CDC’s catchup immunization schedule.

Are routine childhood vaccines safe?

Vaccines are safe and effective for children to receive at the recommended ages at the recommended doses.

Did you know your child could get free vaccines?

Vaccines for Children can help. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides free vaccines to children who qualify. About half of American children younger than 19 years old receive VFC vaccines. Ask your doctor if you qualify.

During these challenging times, remember that you have the power to keep your child healthy by keeping any scheduled appointments for well-child visits and rescheduling appointments that may have been missed.

To learn more about keeping your child healthy, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/visit/vaccination-during-COVID-19.html.

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3 homeowners insurance tips to know before planting flowers or vegetables

2021-03-10T13:01:00

(BPT) – Days are getting longer and warmer, inspiring many to want to spend more time outside. Lots of people enjoy gardening this time of year — it’s an outdoor activity families can do together, especially if parents are looking for ways to keep their children occupied. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air, light exercise, relieve stress and add to your home’s curb appeal.

“Sprucing up your landscaping with some new flower beds and shrubs can give your home a refreshed look,” said Christopher O’Rourke, vice president of property claims at Mercury Insurance. “A well-maintained yard can also help protect against common homeowners insurance claims like water and fire damage. For example, keeping gutters cleared of leaves and debris can help prevent blockages that might direct water into the home. Regularly mowing the lawn, pruning bushes and keeping the yard free of grass clippings and twigs is aesthetically pleasing and can help mitigate against wildfire risk if homeowners live in an area where these are common.”

Here are three additional tips O’Rourke recommends.

1. Well-planned landscaping can help mitigate wildfire risk.

Homeowners who live in areas with dry climates that are susceptible to wildfires should evaluate their landscaping — if laid out in a certain way, it might increase your home’s insurability.

“The plants surrounding a house have one of the greatest influences on its chances of survival,” said Douglas Kent, wildfire expert, author and professor of land management at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Plants within the five feet closest to your home should be fleshy and moist, as they are reluctant to produce a flame. Instead, they’ll sizzle and wilt when exposed to flames and heat. If properly maintained, these plants can catch and extinguish a firebrand.

O’Rourke notes that homeowners who don’t live in fire country can also take precautions to protect against fires. “Trimming tree limbs so they’re at least 10 feet away from your home and pruning unruly bushes can help prevent fires caused by lightning strikes, for example, from jumping onto your roof or exterior walls,” he said.

2. Before hiring expert help, inquire about coverage.

Some gardening jobs may take an expert to complete. However, this brings added exposure to a homeowner if they don’t check on coverage from the contractor. With shovels, rakes and power tools being used, an accident could happen at any moment.

“Before signing a contract with a landscaper or gardener, ask them for their proof of insurance,” said O’Rourke. “If they don’t have coverage, you probably want to find one who does. In most cases, the contractor’s coverage will act as the primary insurance should one of their employees get injured while on the job.”

O’Rourke also recommends homeowners read their insurance policies in full, so they know what is and what isn’t covered in the event of a loss. “Knowledge is power, so understanding your policy is of utmost importance,” he adds. “Talk to your agent if you have questions. They’re also the best resource to help you determine if you have the right amount of coverage.”

3. Consult with your insurance agent after hardscaping.

Most gardens feature a combination of plants and decorative, non-living features or structures, like pathways, fencing or even fountains to help better define and add character to the space. Many homeowners also like to indulge in the warm weather by expanding their outside living space, which can include anything from remodeling a patio to building a garden oasis for relaxing and entertaining.

Regardless of how you may want to enhance your landscape to better showcase — and enjoy — your gardening prowess, it’s a good idea to speak with your insurance agent after making any significant changes to your property.

“Our homes are typically where we spend the majority of our time, so it’s natural to want to customize them to our specific needs and wants. However, renovations — including those done outdoors — can increase a home’s replacement cost if it’s damaged or destroyed,” said O’Rourke. “Talking to your agent about enhancements you’ve made will help ensure you’re properly insured so you can enjoy the fruits of your labor for many years to come.”

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4 tips to make your next colonoscopy more comfortable

2021-03-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – Are you due for a colonoscopy? The American Cancer Society recommends that anyone 45 and older, who is of average risk for colorectal cancer, should begin getting this essential screening. Your healthcare provider will recommend regular screenings every 10 years — or more frequently, depending on your age, health considerations and family medical history.

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths nationwide. The good news is that the death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping over the last several decades — thanks to early detection through colonoscopy screening. Detecting colorectal cancer early means a much greater survival rate, as screenings can detect the cancer before it spreads outside the colon or rectum.

If your doctor recommends that you get a colonoscopy for the first time — or if you’re due for your next one — you are probably aware that you’ll have to prepare for the procedure starting the night before. “It’s not at all uncommon to experience uneasiness ahead of prep night,” says Dr. Jack Di Palma of the University of South Alabama College of Medicine and medical director for Braintree Laboratories. With just a few easy tips — and a little bit of planning — you can feel better about your next colonoscopy preparation and procedure.

How to Prepare for your Colonoscopy

Your healthcare provider will give you specific preparation instructions, so read them carefully and ask questions as soon as possible.

To help ensure your preparation and procedure go smoothly, Dr. Di Palma recommends the following tips:

1. Go shopping

You’ll likely feel more confident heading into your colonoscopy if you’re well prepared. A week before your procedure, make a list of everything you think you’ll need over the few days leading up to and immediately after your colonoscopy. Your list might look something like this:

  • Clear liquids, like juice (without pulp), broth and sports drinks (avoid red and purple colors)
  • Diaper cream and medicated wipes
  • Reading material, like a new book or a few fun magazines
  • A new subscription to the streaming service you’ve been wanting to try
  • Soft toilet paper

2. Be prepared to change your diet

The day before your procedure, Dr. Di Palma recommends eating a breakfast of low-fiber foods, like white bread, cereals (without whole grains, seeds, raisins or dried fruit) and plain waffles. Do not drink milk or eat or drink anything colored red or purple and be sure to avoid alcohol. After that, switch to only clear liquids, like apple juice, broth, plain coffee or tea, clear sports drinks, ice pops and gelatin, until after your colonoscopy. Your healthcare team can help provide a list of specific foods and drinks you should consume (and avoid) leading up to your procedure.

3. Consider your options

A successful colonoscopy depends on completely clearing out the colon. Your healthcare provider will prescribe medication to do this, which is typically taken starting the afternoon or evening before your procedure. Traditionally, that medication has come in the form of a large quantity of liquid that must be consumed rapidly, according to instructions, to completely cleanse the colon.

Now, there is a new prescription medication that can be used to achieve the same result — without having to drink poor-tasting liquid medication as your preparation.

SUTAB (sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, potassium chloride) tablets offer a safe and effective alternative to liquid colonoscopy preparations. In fact, the tablets contain similar active ingredients to those used in common liquid preparations. It is taken in a split-dose administration starting the evening before the colonoscopy.

“I always recommend that patients talk to their doctor about available options when it comes to colonoscopy preparation,” says Dr. Di Palma. “The new sulfate-based tablet, for example, is a great alternative for patients who have previously struggled, or expect to struggle, with liquid preparations due to taste aversions or volume. For many patients, the tablet form is a welcome and convenient change from other preparations.”

To learn more about SUTAB, visit www.SUTAB.com or ask your healthcare provider.

4. Arrange time off — and a ride

You may experience discomfort and will likely need to rest following your procedure, so plan to take the day off from work and other obligations. Light sedation is typically administered during the procedure, so it’s a good idea to arrange a ride home from a family member or friend.

If you have been avoiding getting a colonoscopy due to the global pandemic, contact your healthcare provider to ask what safety protocols they are using and steps you can take to better protect yourself. Taking care of this crucial health screening is well worth the time and effort.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

SUTAB® (sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, potassium chloride) tablets for oral use is an osmotic laxative indicated for cleansing of the colon in preparation for colonoscopy in adults. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: A low residue breakfast may be consumed. After breakfast, only clear liquids may be consumed until after the colonoscopy. Administration of two doses of SUTAB (24 tablets) are required for a complete preparation for colonoscopy. Twelve (12) tablets are equivalent to one dose. Water must be consumed with each dose of SUTAB and additional water must be consumed after each dose. Complete all SUTAB tablets and required water at least 2 hours before colonoscopy. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Use is contraindicated in the following conditions: gastrointestinal obstruction or ileus, bowel perforation, toxic colitis or toxic megacolon, gastric retention. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Risk of fluid and electrolyte abnormalities: Encourage adequate hydration, assess concurrent medications and consider laboratory assessments prior to and after each use; Cardiac arrhythmias: Consider pre-dose and post-colonoscopy ECGs in patients at increased risk; Seizures: Use caution in patients with a history of seizures and patients at increased risk of seizures, including medications that lower the seizure threshold; Patients with renal impairment or taking concomitant medications that affect renal function: Use caution, ensure adequate hydration and consider laboratory testing; Suspected GI obstruction or perforation: Rule out the diagnosis before administration. ADVERSE REACTIONS: Most common gastrointestinal adverse reactions are: nausea, abdominal distension, vomiting and upper abdominal pain. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drugs that increase risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalance.1

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide

Forward Looking Statements

This press release and any statements made for and during any presentation or meeting contain forward-looking statements related to Sebela Pharmaceuticals under the safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “planned,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimated,” “expected,” and “intend,” among others. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the development, launch, introduction and commercial potential of SUTAB®; growth and opportunity, including peak sales and the potential demand for SUTAB®, as well as its potential impact on applicable markets; market size; substantial competition; our ability to continue as a growing concern; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third-party payer reimbursement; dependence upon third parties; our financial performance and results, including the risk that we are unable to manage our operating expenses or cash use for operations, or are unable to commercialize our products, within the guided ranges or otherwise as expected; and risks related to failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. There are no guarantees that future clinical trials discussed in this press release will be completed or successful or that any product will receive regulatory approval for any indication or prove to be commercially successful. While the list of factors presented here is considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included herein are made as of the date hereof, and Sebela Pharmaceuticals does not undertake any obligation to update publicly such statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances except as required by law.

References:

1 SUTAB® [package insert]. Braintree Laboratories, Inc., Braintree, MA: 2020.

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Essential Tremor Awareness Month: Tips to Finding the Best Treatment Option for Your Essential Hand Tremor

2021-03-10T11:45:00

(BPT) – Every March we celebrate Essential Tremor Awareness Month to bring awareness to the most common movement disorder among adults, typically impacting the hand. This condition causes involuntary shaking, which occurs during intentional movement of the affected body part, also known as an action tremor.

Essential tremor is a debilitating disease, both physically and emotionally. People living with the condition struggle to complete everyday tasks such as pouring a glass of water or writing their own signature. Essential tremor also causes people to miss out on fulfilling experiences like holding their newborn grandchild or engaging in their favorite hobbies such as drawing and cooking because action-based tremors are uncontrolled.

Many patients with the condition start to avoid doing activities that bring them joy in order to alleviate the stress caused by their hand tremors. Given these challenges, it is vital for patients with essential tremor to find the right treatment that will help them get back on track to living their lives to the fullest. If essential tremor affects you or a loved one, keep reading for tips on how to find the right treatment.

Available treatment options currently include medications that are generally only 50–70% effective and have potential side effects, such as low heart rate, fatigue and lightheadedness. For patients with a more severe essential tremor, another option includes deep brain stimulation, which requires an invasive surgical procedure.

A newer treatment called Cala Trio™ provides an individualized therapy that targets the source of your action tremor without the need for invasive brain surgery or medications, which can come with a long list of side effects. Cala Trio is a wrist-worn device that delivers electrical stimulation directly to the nerves in the wrist. These nerves project from the wrist to central brain networks that are responsible for generating the action hand tremors that are typical of essential tremor. This stimulation of the nerves in the wrist can provide temporary and meaningful tremor reduction in your treated hand when performing daily activities.

Prescribed by your doctor via an in-person or telemedicine appointment, Cala Trio, through the power of electrical medicine, is an individualized therapy that fits with the unique flow of your life­ — giving you the freedom to use the therapy when it’s best for you. Whether it’s before an important speaking engagement, or before you need to sign a pile of documents, Cala Trio fits into your life when you need it most.

With all the treatment options available, scheduling an appointment with your doctor to discuss your essential tremor may seem a bit daunting. Before you schedule your next appointment, we encourage you to consider these tips to make your conversation with your doctor as successful as possible:

  • Ask questions: The more you ask, the more you know! A conversation with a doctor is a two-way street. It is important to understand everything they are telling you to get the best treatment possible.
  • Think ahead: Prepare for your doctor’s appointment by making a list of all your questions and concerns. This will allow you to express your thoughts without having to worry that you will forget something.
  • Bring a friend or family member with you: If it is OK with your doctor, think about asking a family member or close friend to join you at your appointment. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with new information and having additional emotional support will help your mind stay at ease.
  • Be honest: Don’t be afraid to bring up something that is bothering you, even if it may seem embarrassing. The more honest and forthcoming you are with your doctor, the better they will be able to help you!

If you or a loved one is interested in speaking to a healthcare professional about Cala Trio, we encourage you to fill out our Doctor Discussion Guide, which you can then print and bring into your doctor’s appointment: CalaTrio.com/getting-started/.

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Revving up remote work: Tips to remain positive and thrive through the pandemic

2021-03-10T13:31:00

(BPT) – Many people continue to work and study from home as they navigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While remote life has its benefits, it can also be challenging. There are a few smart steps you can take to avoid unnecessary stress and help you thrive in both your personal and professional life.

“No matter what your personal circumstances, quarantine, social distancing and remote work have been challenging,” says author, speaker and workplace happiness expert Jennifer Moss. “Now is a good time to reassess and take steps to revive your routine. By being proactive, you can help fuel positivity and productivity in all aspects of life.”

To help inspire, Moss shares her top five ways to stay positive and better manage a remote lifestyle:

1. Block time for self-care.

Chronic stress of pushing through the pandemic can cause brain fog. Examples of brain fog include difficulty getting motivated, losing your focus easily, searching for your words when trying to communicate and having difficulty making up your mind. At times, small tasks can feel overwhelming.

To prevent brain fog, take a break from work, school or other must-do’s and schedule time to do something you enjoy for 10 to 15 minutes. Without these breaks you’ll end up less productive and less engaged at work overall. This inevitably forces you to expend more mental energy to reach the same goals. A quick break will help you refresh and refocus.

2. Take a fake commute.

Although long and unpredictable commutes can increase stress, there were aspects of commuting that may have been beneficial, such as listening to music or reading a book. Instead of doing these enjoyable activities at home, many people have simply replaced this lost time with more work.

Rather than working from the time you wake until dinner, consider being more mindful and try scheduling a fake commute instead. That means taking the same amount of time you would have spent in your car or on the subway and replacing it with a walk, listening to your favorite podcast, or spending time with loved ones. Did you know the average roundtrip commute is 48 minutes? While working from home, reschedule that time to focus on your well-being.

3. Reduce video meeting fatigue.

The average worker has experienced a 24% increase in meetings since the start of the pandemic, and video meetings can be especially taxing. Overall, meeting fatigue has shown to increase stress and reduce productivity. To lessen the effects of meeting fatigue for yourself and your team, ask these questions:

* Is this meeting necessary? If yes, then ask:
* Does it have to be a video call?
* Does it have to be longer than 30 minutes?
* Which attendees are essential?
* Can you turn off the cameras and use photos or avatars?
* Can you do an audio-only conference for a screen break?

Of course, some video meetings are necessary, so for those consider starting with a check-in by asking: How are people feeling? Does anyone have a back-to-back call? What time of day is it? If you’re leading the meeting, set a timer so you can end promptly.

4. Work away for the day.

Kids, spouses, roommates and even pets add new elements to your workday that can distract from your concentration. When you need time to focus, consider a change of scenery. For example, WorkSpaces by Hilton is a work-from-hotel solution for individuals seeking office space to boost efficiency during their workday. This is a great option for when you have an important meeting or presentation, need to fully focus, or just get away.

Through WorkSpaces by Hilton, you can enjoy a private, standard guestroom during your work hours and access Wi-Fi that isn’t taxed by everyone in the household. Plus, you have access to hotel amenities, including business centers, gyms and pool areas, where available. Visit workspacesbyhilton.com to book a room or learn more.

5. Unique times require flexibility.

Always remember, people are not working at the same productivity and engagement levels as they did before the pandemic started. In addition to chronic stress and anxiety, people are juggling competing demands, like homeschooling and not having access to daycare.

It’s important to have realistic expectations of what demands can be met for yourself and your colleagues. Create daily and weekly goals and have regular, honest conversations with your managers about work-life balance. If you are a manager at an organization, keep this in mind for employees as well as yourself and embrace a responsive approach to these conversations. What’s more, keep this in mind with your family also, as your kids and partner may also require some flexibility at home, too.

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8 tips to launch a rewarding career in the construction industry

2021-03-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you enjoy working with your hands? Do you love solving complex problems? Do you enjoy working in the outdoors? Do you enjoy the satisfaction of seeing something you’ve built?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, you may want to consider a career in construction.

Many young people don’t realize that there is more than one path to success. In other words, attending a four-year college isn’t the only way to start a rewarding career.

There’s another path. And believe it or not, you can actually get paid while you learn the skills you need to build a career that will last you a lifetime. An apprenticeship with a construction trade union allows young people who are at least 18 years old, and who have earned their high school diploma, to learn how to become an electrician, a pipefitter, a plumber, an ironworker and much more. In fact, according to the Construction Career Foundation, a nonprofit based in Minnesota that helps young people connect with registered construction apprenticeships, there are more than 30 careers in construction that you can pursue.

“A registered apprenticeship with a construction trade union takes from three to five years to complete,” said Sarah Lechowich, senior director for the Construction Careers Foundation. “It involves working at a construction site, where you’re trained by a journeyman, and classroom training.”

With an apprenticeship, there’s little if any costs, which means at the end of the apprenticeship, you’ll have a skill that you can use for a lifetime — without incurring tens of thousands of dollars in college debt.

To start your career in construction, follow these eight tips shared by the Construction Careers Foundation:

1. Pick a trade – Which trade best fits your personality and skill set? Visit ConstructionCareers.org, which offers details about more than 30 construction careers. The website offers descriptions about each trade, videos of real construction workers and details about pay and benefits.

2. Make sure you’re qualified – To be accepted into a construction trades union apprenticeship, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent, and for some apprenticeships, successfully pass an aptitude test administered by the trade union to which you’re applying. By the way, construction isn’t just for men — more and more women are starting construction careers every day.

3. Still in high school? – If you’re still in high school, load up on math and communications courses — today’s construction workers need to know math and they need to know how to communicate clearly — because you work on a team in the real world. Take any courses that your high school offers in construction to start getting hands-on experience.

4. Talk to your parents – Many, if not most, parents urge their kids to go to college. If you have a feeling that college isn’t right for you, talk to your parents and tell them you’d like to try an apprenticeship in construction. Point them to ConstructionCareers.org, which has a ton of information about why a registered construction trades apprenticeship is the best answer for you.

5. Talk to a construction worker – To better understand the rewards of a career in the construction trades, ask family and friends to connect you with construction workers so you can ask them questions about their careers. If you find it difficult to find a construction worker, check out these videos on the Construction Career Pathways channel on YouTube, which features short interviews with more than 20 construction workers.

6. Make the call – Some construction trade unions offer informational meetings for those who want to apply for an apprenticeship. Others will invite you in for an interview. After you’ve identified a construction trade that you’d like to pursue, contact the local construction trade union to get more information about their apprenticeship program.

7. Start the application process – Just like college, you need to apply for an apprenticeship. Some trades allow you to apply year-round; others have specific periods when you can apply. The Construction Trades app, available for download on Apple and Google Play stores, is a great source to learn about apprenticeship deadlines.

8. Get fit – Being an apprentice is hard work. It’s not an office job where you sit in a cubicle all day long. It involves getting to the job site, often at times like 7 a.m., and it will involve lifting tools and materials, and being on your feet throughout the day. Now is the time to start getting in shape and working on your strength and stamina.

“With a registered construction trades apprenticeship,” said Lechowich, “you’ll learn skills that you can use for the rest of your life. You’ll also be trained to build things to the highest standards, and you’ll learn the value and importance of safety. All while getting paid to learn.”

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Take control of your financial future while managing pandemic challenges

2021-03-09T16:01:01

(BPT) – A year into the pandemic, many people have experienced changes in how they manage their money. With different spending needs and, in some cases, changes in income, the ways we balance budgets, save and monitor credit have become top of mind.

“No matter where you are financially, budgeting and saving are two key habits that can help all of us bounce back from life’s unexpected moments,” said Lawrence Bailey, head of financial health and community banking for Chase. “Another important habit is understanding how credit works and what goes into a score.”

To help people manage their changing needs and stay financially healthy now and into the future, Bailey shares some smart tips and simple strategies that anyone can adopt:

Build a budget to meet your needs

Three in four people have concerns about creating a budget that’s flexible and realistic for how they live, according to the 2020 JPMorgan Chase Financial Needs Study. It’s a good practice to update your budget frequently to gain a clear understanding of where and how you can make adjustments. Use traditional paper budgeting tools or digital tools to help keep an eye on your expenses and income as well as find gaps or ways to save.”

Use traditional budgeting tools like the Chase Budget Builder or digital tools to help keep an eye on your expenses and income as well as find gaps or ways to save.

Use technology to help keep you on track

While algorithms can vary depending on the credit bureau, an estimated third or more of your credit score is tied to on-time payments. Financial technology can help you with managing your bills and how you get paid so you never miss a payment. Automate all you can and set up transaction alerts for deposits and withdrawals so you stay on top of money movement.

Monitor and protect your credit

Some actions can impact your credit more than others, and having a clear picture of your credit score is critical. Sign up for Chase Credit Journey for free to check your score, receive alerts about changes to your report and get insights on building good credit. This is important if you are considering applying for a loan or a credit card, or refinancing debt or your home loan.

Set aside savings

Having money set aside in an emergency fund can help provide peace of mind. Also, by saving regularly, you’ll have the financial flexibility to help you reach future goals. Use an online calculator to see how your savings are tracking. Keep in mind, even setting aside a few dollars a week can help you prepare for the unexpected and save for short- and long-term plans.

Stay alert to scams

Financial scams are prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic. To stay up to date, visit the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov. Remember, it’s smart to triple-check any social message, email or solicitation you get from someone claiming to be from a financial institution. Most banks, including Chase, won’t ask for confidential information like your name, password or PIN when reaching out to you.

Look into payment programs if you need help

If you are worried about making payments, contact your home loan, car or credit card company and ask if they have any payment relief programs. You can also reach out to community organizations and city and state resources that can help connect you to aid if you need it.

For additional resources, tools and information on how to manage your budget, grow your savings and build your credit, visit chase.com/personal/financial-goals.