Ultraviolet Light Safety

Ultraviolet (UV) lights are invisible rays of light from the sun that are a leading cause of skin cancer. UV light can also hurt eyes.

Protect yourself from UV light with these tips:

  • Wear protective gear outside – UV-block sunglasses, as well as hats and other clothing that cover your skin.
  • Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen – an SPF of 15 or higher – on exposed skin.
  • Find shade if you spend a long time outside.
  • Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps that emit UV light, which can impact both your eyes and skin.

 

Resource: www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety

Great Outdoors Month

Enjoy the Maine outdoors this month!

Spending time outdoors…

  • is a great way to get physical activity,
  • has proven mental health benefits, and
  • reduces stress.

Outdoor Activities

  • Camping
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Going to the beach
  • Hiking
  • Watching wildlife

Asthma Awareness Month

Nearly 25 million Americans have Asthma. Asthma is a chronic disease that impacts your lungs, sometimes making breathing more difficult.

  • Have regular check-ups with your clinician to help monitor and manage your asthma.
  • Identify your asthma triggers and avoid them.
  • Notify your doctor of any changes in your asthma symptoms.
  • Be prepared – and know what to do – for when you have an asthma attack.

National Stress Awareness Month

Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress

  • Take breaks from news and social media – consider your viewing habits
  • Eat healthy, get movement in, and get plenty of sleep.
  • Try calming activities – deep breathing, stretching, or meditating.
  • Make time to do activities you enjoy, especially outdoors
  • Talk to others about how you are feeling or if you have concerns
  • Avoid excessive alcohol or drug usage, these can make stress worse.

Seek Support when you need it

Peer Support Warm Line: 1 (866) 771 – 9276
Maine Crisis and Counseling Line: 1 (888) 568 – 1112

Talk to your clinician if you need help and learn more about stress at: www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/about/copingwith-stresstips.html

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal Cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. This cancer is associated with getting older, most often occuring in those over 50. Getting screened can help you detect this cancer and start treatment earlier – screening is important to start at age 50.

Risk Factors

  • Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • A personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or colorectal polyps.
  • A genetic syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).

Talk to your clinician if you are at risk, and to request screening.