Wellness Wednesday

"Writing and reading decrease our sense of isolation. They deepen and widen and expand our sense of life: They feed the soul. When writers make us shake our heads with the exactness of their prose and their truths, and even make us laugh about ourselves or life, our buoyancy is restored."  Anne Lamott

Why reading is important to your mental health: Mental Health Benefits of Reading Books. We spend a lot of time advocating for our students to read. You must read, too!

Click here: Slideshow of 7 Reasons Why Reading is Important for Children and Adults.

Governor Proclamation on Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), developmental disabilities are defined as impairments in physical, learning, language or behavior areas and include

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Cerebral palsy
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Learning or intellectual disabilities
• Hearing loss
• Vision impairment
• Other developmental delays

This is a nationwide event to raise awareness about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities and address the barriers that those with disabilities face. Inclusion is necessary since about 15% of the world’s population lives with a disability. We need to understand the relationship between the way people function and how they participate in society and making sure everybody has the same opportunities in every aspect of life to the best of their abilities.

More information about what how you can participate can be found here: National Disability Awareness Month.

It's never overreacting to ask for what you want and need--Amy Poehler

The holidays are a tough time for many people. Whether you simply don’t get along with family members, or the current political climate is causing tension, holidays are hard. You might struggle with depression or anxiety that is heightened by time spent with immediate and extended family. There are techniques to employ that can help you deal with difficult people.

For a detailed explanation of each tip listed below, check out this article: Difficult Family Holidays.

Trauma creates change you don't choose. Healing creates change you do choose.--Michele Rosenthal

This week we are informing you of a FREE benefit that is a part of your DFT membership. The details of a trauma counseling program are outlined in the flyer. If you are not signed up as a member of AFT National, scan codes and emails can be found on the members benefits tab so you can create an account. This account will allow you to access all AFT benefits offered to you as a dues-paying member, not just the trauma counseling program. To see all the benefits of being an AFT member, check out this link on our website. Go to the membership tab, then drop down to member benefits: https://dft231.mi.aft.org/member-benefits.

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” – Jim Ryun, Olympic track star

Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant). More than 133 million Americans are living with diabetes (37.3 million) or prediabetes (96 million).

• Diabetes Risk Factors
• Healthy Habits

We would like to recognize that October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

If someone you know is experiencing Domestic Violence, there is a hotline available: 800-799-7233.

The State of Michigan VOICEDV hotline provides materials that assist the needs of survivors, their family, friends and allied professionals, in addition to round-the-clock phone, text and chat services.  All services are confidential and free of charge. Advocates are trained to provide immediate crisis counseling, advocacy and referral. More information can be found by clicking here.

For more information, use this resource: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

The Mayo Clinic offers up these five tips to help people create a workout routine that fits into a busy life: 5 Simple Tips To Fit A Workout Into Any Schedule.

It's summer and it's a great time to pay attention to your eyes.

Of the approximately one million eye injuries in the United States each year, health experts say that 90% are preventable. The leading causes of eye injury are sports accidents, fireworks, yard and workshop debris and household chemicals, according to the Detroit Medical Center.

• Lawn mowers, weed trimmers and leaf blowers can throw dust and debris into the eye causing injury.
• Household chemicals such as drain cleaners, bleach, oven cleaners and battery acid can splash into the eye.
• Household items, such as elastic cords, can also strike the eye and cause injury.
• Use safety measures near fires and explosives, such as campfires and fireworks. Never look directly at a firework, bottle cork, or other explosive or projectile device if it doesn’t go off as expected. Keep a safe distance from open flames.
• Use grease shields to prevent the splattering of hot grease or oil.
• Avoid using a curling iron near your eyes.
• Don’t aim a laser pointer at anyone’s eyes, and never let children play with them.

One of the greatest threats to your eyes is invisible. Studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and growths on the eye, including cancer. When spending time outdoors, sunglasses that have 97-100% UV protection should be worn. Styles that wrap around to the temples prevent the sun's rays from entering from the side.

Be a good role model and always wear proper eye protection. Fit or adjust your eye protection to make sure you have proper coverage, comfort, and adequate peripheral vision.

Wear safety glasses, goggles, face shields or full facepiece respirators when you hammer nails or metal, work with power tools or chemicals, or do any activity that might cause a burn to your eyes. If you work with hazardous chemicals that could splash into your eyes, know how to flush chemicals out, and know the location of the nearest shower or sink.
 

Wear protective eyewear during sports such as hockey, racquetball, or paintball that involve the risk of a blow to the eye. Baseball is the most common sport to cause eye injuries. Fishhook injuries are another common cause of eye injuries. Protective eyewear can prevent sports-related eye injuries more than 90% of the time.

Toys are a major source of injury, so check all toys for sharp or pointed parts.  Get protective eyewear for your children and help them use it properly. Teach children that flying toys should never be pointed at another person. Teach children how to carry sharp or pointed objects properly. Teach children that any kind of missile, projectile, or BB gun is not a toy. Don’t aim a laser pointer at anyone’s eyes, and never let children play with them.

What says summer better than the taste of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those grown in our own backyard. Add color to your meals during National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month in June. As the peak season for many early garden crops find their way into our homes, it's an excellent time to shop local at a farmers market. There's one near you at Find a Farmers Market in Michigan.

Use these tips to increase your fruit and vegetable consumption:

• Make a point of buying more fruits and vegetables.
• Purchase convenience sizes, if this will help you eat more fruits and vegetables.
• If you are budget conscious, package fruit or vegetables in snack size servings, such as a handful of cut up carrots or baby carrots, washed snap peas, or cubed watermelon and store in an airtight container or bag.
• Make a tray or plate of fresh fruit and/or vegetables and leave in the refrigerator, so you have a healthy snack available while fixing a meal, sitting in front of the television or just wanting to munch on something.
• If you don’t enjoy all types of fruits and vegetables, experiment to find the ones you enjoy most and incorporate them into your diet.
• Include fruit in dishes such as yogurt, salads, cereal, ice cream and other desserts.
• Incorporate vegetables in dishes such as soups, stews, pies, wraps and sandwiches.

Now that winter has given way to spring, it's time to take a look at how the snow and heavy rains, along with strong winds could pose risks to both the inside and outside of your home. It's time to take proactive steps to safeguard your property, minimize risks from inclement weather and prevent costly damage.
 

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Now that winter has transitioned to spring, look for:

• Loose or missing shingles
• Damaged or corroded flashing
• Ice dam residue or water stains

Rapid temperature changes, snow accumulation, and ice can weaken roofing materials. Prompt repairs can prevent water infiltration and further structural damage.

2. Clean and Check Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts direct water safely away from your home’s foundation. Ensure they are free of:

• Leaves, twigs, and other debris
• Blockages that cause overflow

Make sure downspouts extend at least three feet from your foundation to prevent water from pooling and seeping into your basement or crawl space.

3. Assess Your Home’s Foundation and Siding

Spring’s heavy rains and strong winds can expose any existing vulnerabilities in your home's exterior. Check for:

• Cracked or loose siding
• Gaps or holes around windows and doors
• Worn or damaged weather stripping

Be alert for signs of water seepage now that the ground has thawed. If you have a sump pump, test it.

4. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

Spring storms can bring high winds capable of turning branches and unsecured items into hazards. Be proactive by:

• Trimming overhanging or dead branches
• Securing patio furniture, grills, and lawn decorations

Prevent potential damage to your roof, siding, or windows from airborne debris.

5. Grade Your Lot for Proper Drainage

Proper grading prevents water from accumulating near your foundation. Make sure your yard slopes away from the home, which helps:

• Prevent water damage and erosion
• Protect against foundation cracks and shifting
• Keep the soil around the foundation stable

A well-graded lot ensures rainwater flows away efficiently, reducing long-term risks to your home’s structure.

6. Prepare for Emergencies

Even with thorough preparation, severe weather can still lead to unexpected damage. It’s essential to have an emergency plan in place. Be sure to:

• Stock flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated radio, and a first-aid kit
• Keep a supply of bottled water and non-perishable food
• Ensure your backup generator is functional and fueled
• Charge phones and power banks before a storm

Take time to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to confirm that you have adequate coverage for wind, hail, and water damage. Understanding your policy can help you respond quickly and confidently if damage occurs.