Save a Life — Learn How to Use Nalaxone

On April 9th, 2025, local health departments across Connecticut will be recognizing the second annual Save a Life Day. This initiative educates people on how they can recognize an opioid overdose emergency and respond to it by administering Naloxone. 

Naloxone acts quickly to reverse the effects of someone whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to an opioid overdose. With these overdoses becoming a serious public health crisis, the medication is now carried by first responders and becoming more widely available to individuals and businesses as well.

Here’s how Naloxone can save a life during an opioid overdose, and how you can learn more about using it.

 

Recognizing an opioid overdose

Acting quickly is crucial to reversing the effects of the overdose. Common signs of someone experiencing an opioid overdose include:

  • Slow or shallow breathing, or breathing that has stopped
  • Tiny pupils
  • Unresponsiveness to voice or touch
  • Pale, clammy, or bluish skin
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Slowed heartbeat

 

Using Naloxone in an emergency

Although it is available in an injectable form, Naloxone is typically given as a nasal spray. The medication acts as an opioid antagonist, binding to opioid receptors in the brain and quickly blocking their effects. However, it is important to note that this only works for overdoses of opioids (like heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers) and not for overdoses of other substances.

To use Naloxone, simply follow the instructions on the spray. Once administered, you should call 911 immediately, since the effects of the medication can wear off and it is essential to get additional help. If a person does not respond after two to three minutes, a second dose can be administered.

 

Where to get Naloxone training

Pharmacists who have been approved to dispense Naloxone can educate anyone who receives this medication on its use. A list of these approved pharmacies is available at the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.  

Naloxone training can also be available through primary care providers or substance use treatment programs.

 

Who should have Naloxone available?

Naloxone is available to anyone who wants to be prepared for a potential opioid overdose emergency. This might include friends or family members of opioid users, or businesses and organizations in areas with significant opioid overdose rates.

If a loved one is using opioids, help is available. Visit the Uncas Health Department’s Harm Reduction program and the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for more information.

How Checking Your Vaccination Status Helps Prevent the Spread of Measles

With measles cases rising across the United States, the Connecticut Department of Public Health recently encouraged all Connecticut residents to verify their vaccination status. By doing so, people can ensure that their protection against measles is adequate and take steps to update their vaccination if needed.

As of March 20th, 2025, there were 378 confirmed cases of measles across 18 jurisdictions in the United States. These cases have led to one confirmed death and one death under investigation, and have overwhelmingly affected people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

No cases have emerged in Connecticut, and the state’s strong vaccination rate is a good step toward herd immunity. This occurs when at least 95 percent of a community has been vaccinated against a disease, helping to stop its spread and protecting those in the community who are unable to receive the vaccine.

Here’s how you can check your vaccination status and see if you may need to take action to help strengthen the health of the community.

 

How a Vaccination Status Check Works

To check your vaccination status, you need to look up your medical records to confirm that you received a measles vaccine. The Connecticut Department of Public Health provides an immunization portal to safely and securely check your vaccine status or that of your child. This system began collecting records for children in 1998 and adults in 2022.

You can also check with your doctor’s office to see if they have immunization records on file. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says adults can potentially find this information from childhood records, school health departments, or past employers.

Since it can sometimes be challenging to find these records, a doctor can also order a blood test to determine your immunity to measles. The measles titer test measures the level of measles antibodies in your blood to determine if you have sufficient protection. 

 

When You Might Need to Update Your Measles Vaccine

The measles vaccine was first licensed in the United States in 1963. Since 1971, it has been available as part of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine to provide protection against additional diseases.

Your protection against measles is significantly dependent on your age:

  • People born before 1957: These individuals are generally considered immune to measles due to widespread exposure to the disease during this time.
  • People born between 1958 to 1962: These individuals were born shortly before the measles vaccine became available. This creates some uncertainty over whether they contracted measles or received a measles vaccine, so it is recommended that they confirm their immunity.
  • People born between 1963 and 1967: Some people born during this period received a killed or inactivated measles vaccine, which was later found to be less effective against the disease. These individuals should receive at least one dose of the live attenuated MMR vaccine.
  • People born between 1968 and 1989: During this period, those who got the MMR vaccine received one dose. Beginning in 1989, a two-dose regimen was recommended after research showed that some people did not develop full immunity from a single dose. If you were born during this time, it is recommended that you get a blood test to see if you need to receive a second dose.
  • People born after 1989: People vaccinated during this period fall within the current recommendation of receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine for optimal protection.

If you are unsure of your vaccination history, it is recommended that you get one dose of the MMR vaccine. 

 

Who Can (and Cannot) Get the Measles Vaccine

All children should receive two doses of MMR vaccine. The first dose is typically given between 12 and 15 months of age, while the second dose is given between ages 4 and 6. The vaccine is also recommended for infants between the ages of 6 and 11 months who are traveling internationally or to areas within the United States where there is an active measles transmission.

The vaccine can also be administered to adults who are unvaccinated or who show evidence of inadequate immunity. People who may be at higher risk of contracting measles, such as health care workers or international travelers, should ensure that they have been vaccinated and have strong immunity.

Your doctor may recommend that you not get the MMR vaccine if there is a concern that it might cause health complications. The vaccine is typically not recommended for:

  • Pregnant women
  • Individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to gelatin or neomycin, which are components of the vaccine
  • Individuals who have weakened immune systems due to certain medical conditions or treatments (e.g., cancer, HIV, or high doses of corticosteroids)
  • People with active tuberculosis

Protecting our community from measles requires collective effort. By checking your vaccination status and ensuring you are fully immunized, you can help prevent the spread of this preventable disease.

For more information, visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Meet the Uncas Health District Medical Reserve Corps

The Uncas Health District oversees several programs to promote public health in Eastern Connecticut, one of which relies on the dedication of volunteers to provide assistance during emergencies. The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is part of a national network of people working to strengthen local readiness and reduce potential vulnerabilities during such incidents.

Here’s a look at how the MRC under the Uncas Health District has made a difference:

 

Who Makes Up the MRC?

The Medical Reserve Corps consists of both medical professionals and non-medical support staff. The MRC administered by the Uncas Health District serves the towns of Bozrah, Griswold, Franklin, Lebanon, Lisbon, Montville, Norwich, Preston, Salem, Sprague, and Voluntown.

This is one of four MRCs in Eastern Connecticut. Additional regions are served through the Eastern Highlands Health District, Ledge Light Health District, and Northeast District Department of Health.

 

What Does the MRC Do?

The Medical Reserve Corps is divided into teams to provide prompt assistance in the event of a natural disaster or other serious incidents. These teams specialize in dispensing supplies, providing medical aid, supporting operations virtually, and sharing information through local cable access television.

Volunteers receive free training through CT-Train, and participate in exercises, drills, and courses to develop and practice their skills. These preparations help develop expertise in topics like psychological first aid, CPR and first aid, Stop the Bleed and Until Help Arrives lifesaving skills, personal emergency preparedness, bloodborne pathogens, and FEMA incident management practices.

The Uncas MRC participates in numerous events throughout the year, including flu clinics, health expos, recruitment fairs, and more to raise awareness of its work and share information on emergency preparedness. It has also filmed a local public access television talk show called Public Health Matters, cross-trained with the Montville chapter of the American Red Cross on emergency sheltering, and assisted with public health measures such as at-home COVID vaccinations, food drives, and blood pressure clinics.

 

MRC Statistics

The Uncas MRC was established in February 2007 and currently includes 70 volunteers — 53 with medical expertise and 17 non-medical supporters.

During one typical five-year period, the Uncas MRC responded to 57 incidents or events. It contributed 460.25 volunteer hours with a total economic value of $17,619.

The team was particularly busy during COVID-19. A total of 45 MRC activations were related to the pandemic.

 

Joining the MRC

The Uncas Health Districts invites new members to join the Medical Reserve Corps and help make a difference! No experience is necessary, and you can complete the initial intake form at CTResponds to get started.

For more information on the MRC, click here. You can also contact MRC coordinator Sara Darlagiannis directly at 508-207-3177 or [email protected] with any questions.

Doing Your Part to Stop the Spread of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is often regarded as a bygone disease, since its mortality rate has declined rapidly with the advent of modern sanitation practices and public health measures. Yet it’s important to remember that while there has been amazing progress in preventing and treating tuberculosis, it still affects millions of people each year and is the leading cause of death from an infectious disease.

March 24th is World Tuberculosis Day, recognizing the anniversary of Dr. Robert Koch’s discovery in 1882 of the Myobacterium tuberculosis bacteria that causes the disease. This breakthrough allowed for considerable advances in screening methods, treatments, and other ways to address the disease. National Tuberculosis Day serves to raise awareness of tuberculosis, including the ongoing challenges it creates and the opportunities for preventing and treating the illness.

 

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB). It can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain (extrapulmonary TB).

Symptoms of TB may include:

  • A persistent cough (lasting three weeks or longer)
  • Chest pain
  • Coughing up blood or sputum (phlegm)
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Night sweats

 

Why Tuberculosis Remains a Serious Health Issue

Despite significant advancements in detecting and treating tuberculosis, it continues to pose a serious public health issue. The disease can easily be spread when an infected person coughs, speaks, or otherwise distributes airborne water droplets. Without proper treatment, TB can lead to serious illness or death.

Other factors that can increase the risk and seriousness of TB infection include:

  • Disproportionate impact: TB is more likely to affect vulnerable populations living in poverty. Factors such as malnutrition, poor sanitation practices, overcrowded living conditions, and limited access to health care can all create environments where TB can spread rapidly.
  • Treatment challenges: TB treatment requires a long course of antibiotics, typically lasting six months or longer, and adherence to this regimen can be challenging.
  • Latent infection: Many people have latent TB infection, which means they are infected with the bacteria but do not actively show TB symptoms and are not contagious. However, latent infection can quickly develop into active disease, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
  • Drug resistance: The emergence of drug-resistant forms of TB has created strains of the disease that are more difficult to treat.

 

Tuberculosis and Co-Occurring Health Conditions

Health conditions that weaken the immune system can make a person more vulnerable to tuberculosis infection. These include diabetes, kidney disease, certain cancers, and people with substance use disorders.

TB is a leading cause of death among people who are HIV positive. HIV and TB form a dangerous synergy, with HIV weakening the immune system and making individuals more susceptible to TB infection and the progression of the disease.

 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the spread of tuberculosis and ensure successful outcomes. 

Diagnosis typically involves a three-step procedure:

  • A tuberculin skin test (TST) or blood test (IGRA), which determines if someone is infected with TB bacteria
  • Chest X-rays, which are conducted if the skin or blood tests are positive to look for signs of TB disease in the lungs.
  • Sputum tests, which are done if the chest X-ray suggests TB disease to confirm the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Treatment for TB involves a course of antibiotics, typically lasting six to nine months. Completing the entire course of medication is essential to prevent drug resistance, and directly observed therapy (DOT) may be used to ensure medication adherence.

 

What You Can Do

  • If you experience any tuberculosis symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early detection is a crucial factor in stopping the spread of the disease.
  • If you have been in close contact with someone who has TB, get tested.
  • Practice good respiratory hygiene, such as the “vampire technique” of covering your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing.

Read more from the Uncas Health District

Eating of the Green: The Benefits of Working More Greens Into Your Diet

This St. Patrick’s Day, Uncas Health District is encouraging you to add a little more green to your day — in the form of nutritious greens!

Yes, we know that the occasion is usually celebrated with richer foods (and drinks). But since St. Patrick’s Day takes place during National Nutrition Month, it’s also a perfect opportunity to explore vibrant, healthy greens that can boost your well-being. Here’s how the “eating of the green” can be good for you.

 

The Power of Green

There’s a reason your parents told you to eat your broccoli when you were a kid. Green vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here’s why they deserve a place on your plate:

  • Vitamins and Minerals: Greens provide a rich array of vitamins and minerals, supporting everything from immune function and vision to bone health and blood clotting.
  • Fiber: Leafy greens are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar, and can aid in weight management.
  • Antioxidants: Greens contain antioxidants that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Hydration: Many greens have a high water content, helping you stay hydrated.

 

No Shortage of Greens to Try

There are so many different types of greens to include in your diet, and each one brings something to the table. Here’s a look at some of the key nutrients you can find in some of the more popular options: 

  • Spinach: Vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium
  • Kale: Vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
  • Collard Greens: Calcium and vitamin K.
  • Broccoli: Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Brussels Sprouts: Vitamins K and C, as well as fiber.
  • Lettuce: Vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and potassium. Romaine and other darker varieties are more nutritious than iceberg lettuce.
  • Green Beans: Vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
  • Asparagus: Folate and vitamins K and A.
  • Herbs: While they are often served in small quantities, herbs can provide additional nutritional value through assorted vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Getting More Greens into Your Diet

People often have difficulties getting enough greens into their diet. Factors such as busy schedules or concerns about vegetables going bad can cause people to choose more convenient (but less healthy) options instead. Here are some ways you can routinely incorporate greens into your diet. 

    • Start a Garden: This provides a ready source of greens right at your own home! Even a small container garden can add plenty of fresh vegetable options to your meal plan
    • Make More Salads: Regularly include a side salad with your meals, and experiment with different greens, toppings, and dressings
    • Have a Smoothie: Spinach, kale, or other greens are perfect for blending into smoothies for a nutritional boost.
    • Green Cooking: Sautee greens with garlic, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon for an easy side dish, or work them into dishes like soups, stews, omelets, and stir frys
    • Green Baking: Spinach or kale can be baked into crispy chips, or mixed into muffins, breads, or even brownies for a secret dose of greens.

By incorporating more greens into our diets, we can feel healthier and more energized. So, go ahead and “eat the green” – your body will thank you!

Building Healthy Habits for Balanced Eating

March is National Nutrition Month, encouraging people to prioritize healthy eating as part of their overall well-being. The Mobile Health Team at Uncas Health District has been emphasizing this topic during their regular stops in the community, demonstrating how good nutrition is essential to staying healthy.

Here’s a look at why good nutrition is important, no matter what your age, as well as some helpful guidance on how you can develop healthy nutrition habits.

 

The Importance of Nutrition

  • For Children and Adolescents: Proper nutrition fuels growth, supports brain development, and builds a strong foundation for their health in adulthood. 
  • For Adults: A balanced diet provides the proper energy for daily activities, helps prevent weight gain and obesity, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
  • For Older Adults: Good nutrition supports the changing needs that come with aging, helping older adults to maintain their muscle mass, strengthen their bones, and boost immunity.
  • General Benefits: Good nutrition has several universal benefits, including improved mood, better sleep, and overall vitality. 

 

MyPlate.gov: Your Guide to Balanced Eating

A great resource for creating balanced meals is MyPlate.gov, a simple, visual guide from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). If you’re still relying on the old food pyramid, MyPlate.gov is the place to go for updated guidance. It makes healthy eating easy to understand by emphasizing five food groups and their proportions:

  • Fruits: About a quarter of your plate should include fruits, featuring a variety of colors to provide a full range of vitamins and minerals.
  • Vegetables: Another quarter of your plate should be vegetables, prioritizing dark green, red, and orange vegetables for maximum nutrition.
  • Grains: A third quarter of your plate should include grains, which are essential for digestive health; make at least half of your grains whole grains, which are rich in fiber and great for your digestive health.
  • Protein: The last quarter of your plate should include lean protein sources like poultry, fish, beans, and nuts to help with building and repairing tissues.
  • Dairy: Older children and adults should have about three cups a day of low-fat or fat-free dairy products (or fortified soy alternatives) to provide calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

 

Healthy Habits to Embrace

Implementing the MyPlate.gov recommendations into your daily life is easier than you might think. Here are some practical tips:

  • Plan Your Meals: Once a week, plot out the meals you’d like to make for a week ahead. This will help you make healthier choices during your shopping trips and avoid impulse purchases. Home-cooked meals also tend to be healthier than restaurant or takeout food since you have more control over ingredients and portion sizes.
  • Involve the Whole Family: Make healthy eating a family affair! Explore new recipes, cook them together, and encourage each other to make healthy choices.
  • Snack Smart: Choose healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, nuts, or yogurt instead of processed snacks that are high in fat or sugar.
  • Make Gradual Changes: Changing your diet takes time. Start by making small, manageable changes, like adding an extra serving of vegetables to your meals.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is a continuous process. By following the MyPlate.gov recommendations and incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine, you can improve your overall health and well-being. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.

Drug Overdose Deaths Decrease in Connecticut (But Challenges Remain)

The use of nalaxone can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses

Drug overdose deaths in the United States declined between 2022 and 2023, according to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While this is a positive trend, the CDC cautioned that drug overdoses remain a persistent public health issue and are ranked as the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.

Nationally, the age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. fell 4 percent, from 32.6 deaths per 100,000 people to 31.3. The decrease was driven by 20 states where the drug overdose death rate fell significantly, including Connecticut. This rate was largely unchanged in 25 states and went up in six states.

Although Connecticut’s drug overdose death rate remained above the national average at 35.2 per 100,000 people, this marked a 12.6 percent decrease from 2022. The fatal overdose rate in Connecticut fell for opioid-related overdoses and synthetic opioids other than methadone but rose slightly for cocaine and psychostimulants with the potential for abuse.

To see the CDC’s complete findings, click here.

Uncas Health District’s services include efforts to reduce harm from drug overdose, including a syringe exchange program, increasing access to naloxone to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, and connecting people with drug treatment services. More information is available here.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family From the Measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease and can have serious health effects.

The measles virus has been in the news lately, with a major outbreak in West Texas and isolated cases emerging elsewhere in the United States. While people may consider measles to be a common and non-threatening childhood illness, the truth is that this virus is highly contagious and can be lethal — as shown by the tragic death of an unvaccinated child in the Texas outbreak, the first measles fatality in the United States in a decade.

The Uncas Health District wants to ensure that our community is informed about the measles virus and prepared to respond to it. Here’s what you need to know: 

 

Measles Symptoms

Measles is a serious respiratory disease that is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes. Initial symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and can include:

  • High fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
  • A rash of flat, red spots starts on the face at the hairline and spreads down to the neck, trunk, and extremities.

Measles can sometimes lead to severe complications, including:

  • Pneumonia
  • Encephalitis (brain swelling)
  • Ear infections
  • Diarrhea
  • In rare cases, death

Who is Most at Risk?

Anyone who is not immune to measles can contract the virus, but certain groups are at higher risk. These include: 

  • Unvaccinated individuals who have not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine
  • Young children, particularly those under 12 months old, who have not received their first dose of MMR vaccine
  • Pregnant women who can develop complications, including premature birth or miscarriage, when contracting measles
  • People with weakened immune systems like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those taking immunosuppressant medications
  • People traveling to areas with ongoing measles outbreaks

The Importance of Vaccination

Developing immunity to measles is the strongest measure of protection against the virus. People can develop immunity to measles by developing antibodies after contracting the virus or when these antibodies are passed on to them during pregnancy. However, the safest and most effective way to protect against measles is the MMR vaccine.

This two-dose vaccine contains a weakened version of a live measles virus, which allows the body to develop antibodies against the virus without the risk of more severe effects. The vaccine provides 97 percent protection against measles, and symptoms are milder in the rare case of vaccinated individuals contracting the virus.

High vaccination rates also have the beneficial effect of creating “herd immunity,” preventing the spread of measles through communities. This offers protection to infants and others who are more at risk from measles.

It is strongly advised that everyone who is able to receive the MMR vaccine do so. Contacting your health care provider can ensure that you and your family are up to date on your vaccinations. 

What to Do if You Contract Measles

If you or someone in your family develops measles symptoms, take the following steps.

  • Contact your healthcare provider immediately. Call before going to the doctor’s office or emergency room to avoid spreading the virus.
  • Stay home. Isolate yourself to prevent infecting others.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions. Your healthcare provider will provide guidance on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
  • Notify your local health department. This will help local health authorities to track measles cases and take necessary public health measures.

Food Connects Us: Celebrating National Nutrition Month 2025

girl giving her dad a cherry tomato while cooking

March is National Nutrition Month®, an annual initiative by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics designed to highlight the importance of informed food choices and healthy lifestyle habits. This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” emphasizes how nutrition not only fuels our bodies but also brings people together, fostering cultural appreciation, social connection, and overall well-being.

The State of Nutrition in the U.S.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health, yet many Americans struggle with diet-related health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 42% of adults in the U.S. are classified as obese, a condition linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (CDC, 2023). Poor dietary habits, combined with a lack of physical activity, contribute to this growing public health challenge.

The impact of nutrition goes beyond individual health; it affects communities, economies, and healthcare systems. Studies indicate that diet-related chronic diseases account for approximately $173 billion in annual medical costs in the U.S. By focusing on healthier eating habits and regular physical activity, we can reduce these risks and improve overall quality of life.

Healthy Eating Habits for a Better Life

Improving nutrition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, sustainable changes can make a significant impact. Here are some practical tips to incorporate better eating habits into daily life:

  1. Emphasize Whole Foods: Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats over processed foods.
  2. Practice Portion Control: Be mindful of serving sizes to avoid overeating, even with healthy foods.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for digestion, metabolism, and overall bodily function. Aim for at least 8 cups a day.
  4. Plan and Prepare Meals: Cooking at home allows for better control over ingredients and portion sizes.
  5. Reduce Added Sugars and Sodium: Excessive sugar and salt intake can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
  6. Listen to Your Body: Eat when hungry and stop when full, practicing intuitive eating rather than restrictive dieting.

The Role of Physical Activity

Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and bones, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and boosts mental health.

The Social and Cultural Power of Food

This year’s theme, “Food Connects Us,” highlights the way meals bring families, friends, and communities together. Across cultures, food traditions are a means of storytelling, heritage preservation, and community bonding. Whether it’s sharing a home-cooked meal, participating in a community garden, or exploring new cuisines, food fosters social connections that contribute to mental and emotional well-being.

Taking Action This National Nutrition Month®

National Nutrition Month® is a great opportunity to evaluate personal eating habits and make positive changes. Here are a few ways to get involved:

  • Join Local Events: Many communities host nutrition workshops, cooking demonstrations, and health screenings.
  • Try a New Healthy Recipe: Experimenting with nutrient-rich ingredients can make healthy eating enjoyable.
  • Encourage Workplace Wellness: Advocate for healthier food options and wellness programs at work.
  • Educate Others: Share resources and knowledge to help family and friends make informed food choices.

By prioritizing nutrition and embracing the power of food to connect us, we can build healthier, stronger communities. This March, take small steps toward better nutrition and well-being—because when we eat well, we live well.

More From Uncas Health District

Eating Disorders: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help

February 24–28 marks National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a time to shed light on the seriousness of eating disorders, their devastating health effects, and the importance of early intervention. Eating disorders are serious and potentially fatal illnesses that profoundly impact a person’s physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life. They are more than just an obsession with food or weight — they are complex conditions influenced by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

The Dangers of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Some of the most serious consequences include:

  • Heart Problems: Malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances can cause irregular heart rhythms, heart failure, and even sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic purging, excessive dieting, or binge eating can lead to stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and severe constipation.
  • Bone and Muscle Loss: A lack of proper nutrition weakens bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
  • Mental Health Struggles: Eating disorders often coexist with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Multi-Organ Failure: In extreme cases, prolonged malnutrition can lead to failure of vital organs, making eating disorders among the deadliest mental health disorders.

Recognizing the Signs in Yourself or Others

Early detection is key to successful recovery. If you notice any of the following behaviors in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to seek professional help:

  • Extreme preoccupation with food, calories, dieting, or body image.
  • Skipping meals, eating in secret, or extreme food restrictions.
  • Frequent episodes of binge eating, often accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame.
  • Compensatory behaviors like excessive exercise, self-induced vomiting, or misuse of laxatives.
  • Noticeable weight fluctuations or dramatic weight loss.
  • Mood swings, withdrawal from social activities, or an increased focus on controlling food.

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, seeking professional help is crucial. Recovery is possible with the right support system, which may include therapy, medical intervention, and nutritional counseling. Organizations like the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) provide invaluable resources, including hotlines, support groups, and treatment options.

This National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, let’s destigmatize eating disorders, encourage open conversations, and advocate for early intervention. If you recognize any warning signs, don’t hesitate to seek help — because everyone deserves a healthy relationship with food and their body.

 

More Content from Uncas Health District