Women’s Health

Women face diverse and unique health challenges that can affect their overall wellbeing. The good news is that it’s never too late to take steps in living a healthy life. Doing so can help decrease the chances of developing a chronic disease or condition.

Many health risks and conditions are preventable and can be avoided with positive lifestyle changes. Here are several steps that women of all ages can take to help stay healthy:

• See your doctor regularly. Schedule and stay up to date on your health visits and screenings.
• Know your family’s medical history. Talk to your doctor about health habits that will help reduce your risk hereditary conditions.
• Stay active. Aim for at least 30 continuous minutes of physical activity, 5 times a week.
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and lean proteins in your means. Reduce your intake of added sugars, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and substance abuse. Smoking and heavy drinking are known to increase your risk of cancer and other health problems.
• Spend time with friends and family, both virtually and in person. Connecting with others can do wonders for your physical and emotional wellness.
• Prioritize your mental health. When stress strikes, take a break to unplug and recharge. Try meditation or spend time doing a rewarding activity that helps you feel grounded.
• Recognize when you may need help. Seek professional help if you are struggling to cope, or the symptoms of stress and anxiety won’t go away. Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential counseling to help you cope with and manage feelings of stress and anxiety. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For additional resources and information about women’s health, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Women’s Health webpage. For more information about how your EAP can help you, contact your Component EAP, or send an email to worklife@hq.dhs.gov.