Your Wellness Matters

New season, new health and wellness trends. This time of the year serves as a reminder to slow down and evaluate your health status. Optimize your physical and mental well-being. Look at what’s trending and how you can plan measures to prepare, prevent, and get on track for a great year.

Check back here often for the latest West Region Wellness information and resources to keep you well.

Flu and RSV

Winter has arrived and brought along the season’s colds and chills. As cold fronts spread in most parts of the country, so do the flu and respiratory viruses such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID-19.

Flu

Each winter, the CDC compiles research on the most common flu (influenza) and produces a vaccine. The injectable flu vaccine or the nasal spray vaccine are covered under TRICARE. Visit Covered Services for information on TRICARE participating facilities.

RSV

RSV is a respiratory virus that affects people of all ages. According to the CDC, infants, pregnant women and older adults are at higher risk for severe reaction and hospitalization due to RSV. RSV vaccines are now available for adults 60 years and older. TRICARE coverage is based on CDC recommendations.

COVID-19

Primarily spread though respiratory droplets, COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that continues to affect individuals. Lower your risk of infection by following CDC COVID-19 Prevention Strategies and vaccine recommendations.

What About My Mental Health?

When winter blues begin to feel never ending, it may be time to check in on your mental health. Mental health affects the wellness of all individuals. From physical signs to feelings of anxiety, mental health plays a role in the interaction of daily activities within work, home, schools, etc. From childhood to adulthood, optimal wellness starts with good mental health. Learn more about how to care for your mental health.

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

If you are experiencing any of the above, schedule a mental health appointment today. As part of TRICARE’s mission to support mental health, Telehealth Mental Services are provided.

Learn some facts surrounding mental health, take the Mental Health Quiz.

Additional resources:

• PTSD Treatment Decision Aid
• Military Health System Mental Health Hub
• Suicide Prevention Starts with Reexamining Coping Skills
• Seeking Clinical Mental Health Services? Learn What TRICARE Covers
• Veterans Crisis Line – Support for All Who Serve