Iowa Pharmacy Association Recognizes National Wellness Month: Thriving Together

• By: IPA
• On: 08/24/2023 14:20:06
• In: Press Releases
• Comments: 0

In recognition of National Wellness Month, the Iowa Pharmacy Association (IPA) highlights the importance of managing burnout and prioritizing your overall well-being. Patients and healthcare professionals alike have experienced countless stressors since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. After navigating many challenges over the last few years, it's time to reprioritize wellness for yourself and your family.
 
This summer, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced promising data showing the first signs of recovery in childhood immunization rates since the pandemic began. In 2022, approximately 4 million less children missed out on one or more vaccines delivered through routine immunization services compared to 2021.¹ Although this data is encouraging, over 18.4 million children missed their routine vaccinations in 2019 prior to pandemic disruptions.¹ With school back in session, it is important to get your children back on schedule for any missed immunizations.
 
As a parent and working professional, along with many other roles, prioritizing wellness often falls second to other life obligations. The Well-Being Index, created by Mayo Clinic and utilized by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), shows significant emotional and mental health problems among healthcare workers specifically. In 2021, nearly 40% of physicians, 60% of nurses, and 30% of pharmacy professionals reported being at a high level of distress.³
 
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) list six strategies for improving your ‘Emotional Wellness Toolkit': building resilience, reducing stress, being mindful, getting quality sleep, coping with loss, and strengthening your social connections.² This month, challenge yourself to try one new wellness practice. Consider exploring meditation, using a new time management tool, or incorporating more physical activity in your day. Start small to build sustainable habits for a healthier, happier lifestyle.
 
IPA offers many resources to keep you and your family healthy and safe. Visit www.iarx.org/patients.
 

1. “Childhood Immunization Begins Recovery after COVID-19 Backslide.” World Health Organization, 18 July 2023, https://www.who.int/news/item/18-07-2023-childhood-immunization-begins-recovery-after-covid-19-backslide.
2. “Emotional Wellness Toolkit.” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 8 Aug. 2022, www.nih.gov/health-information/emotional-wellness-toolkit.
3. Well-Being Index, State of Well-Being 2021-2022, https://f.hubspotusercontent40.net/hubfs/465692/WBI-SOWB-2021-22.pdf.