Pride sept17 by ojrdsd

September 2017

What’s Inside LIFE

Welcome, Babies! Live Well, Work Well Worklife Frontline Employee Wellness Newsletter Surviving Cancer

CULTURE and EVENTS

Important 2017 District Dates/Links Chesco Walk (OJR’s at Warwick) Warwick Community Day (Walk 1 pm) EF Fall Farm Festival Poster Cavalcade Flyer Pink Out Game Flyer Pink Out Shirt Order Form Mattress Sale Flyer Telephonic Health Coaching Flyer Vitamix Newsletter/Offer Other Area Events

September 2017

Health and wellness tips for your work and life— presented by The Reschini Group

Do You Know the Signs of Opioid Addiction? 3 Tips to Help Make the First Day of School Less Stressful After a summer of sleeping in and doing things on their own time, the morning alarm and school bell can be a tough transition for students going back to school, as well as their families. The first day of school tends to be particularly hectic for kids of all ages, adjusting to a new classroom or schedule and trying to remember all the books and supplies they need. To help combat first-day stress, consider the following suggestions: 

Pack backpacks the night before so no one is scrambling at the last minute looking for books and supplies. Also, have lunch packed or lunch money ready in advance.



Pick out or have your child pick out his or her clothes the night before. Doing so will help keep everyone on time while getting ready and prevent last-minute rushing in the morning.



Arrange a visit beforehand if your child will be going to a new school. Explore all the areas of the school and get a map to help direct your child on the first day.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice. © 2017 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Opioid addiction is a growing epidemic in the United States, with opioid overdoses killing 91 Americans every day. In 2015 alone, more than 33,000 people died from an opioid overdose. Read on to learn more about opioids and to learn how to recognize the signs of opioid addiction. What is an opioid? According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), opioids are a class of drugs that act on the nervous system to relieve pain. Common opioids include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids like fentanyl, and prescription painkillers like oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and morphine. Continued use (and abuse) of opioids can lead to physical dependence on and addiction to these types of drugs. What are the signs of opioid addiction? Being familiar with the most common signs of opioid addiction can help you or someone you love get proper treatment before it is too late. Physical signs of opioid addiction include the following: 

Noticeable euphoria



Drowsiness, confusion, or intermittent nodding off



Constricted pupils



Slowed breathing

For more information on opioids, opioid addiction, and opioid overdoses, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's or the NIDA’s opioid webpage.

MICROWAVE DENVER SCRAMBLE SLIDER 1 Tbsp. red or green bell pepper (chopped) 1 Tbsp. onion (chopped) 1 egg 1 thin slice deli ham (chopped) 1 Tbsp. water 1 whole-wheat English muffin (split and toasted)

PREPARATIONS 1.

Place peppers and onion in a small bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir.

Add egg, ham, and water to the pepper and onion mixture. Beat mixture together until the egg is blended.

Microwave mixture on high for 30 seconds. Stir.

Microwave mixture again until egg is almost set, about 30 to 45 more seconds.

Carefully transfer cooked mixture to prepared English muffin. Serve warm.

National Preparedness Month Since 2004, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the national Ready Campaign have promoted National Preparedness Month (NPM) every September. NPM encourages Americans to take steps to prepare for all types of emergencies and strives to increase the overall number of people, families, and communities that engage in preparedness actions. The most recent data from the Red Cross, though, reveals that despite 8 out of 10 Americans feeling unprepared for a catastrophic event, only 1 in 10 has taken the following appropriate preparedness steps: 

Create a family emergency plan.



Stock an emergency supply and first-aid kit.



Train in basic first aid.

Remember, you can’t plan when a disaster will occur, but you can plan ahead to be prepared if and when a disaster does strike. This September, take time to learn more about NPM and take the suggested steps to become properly prepared. For more information, please visit the NPM website.

Makes: 1 serving Nutritional Information (per serving) Total Calories

240

Total Fat

Protein

16 g

Carbohydrates

29 g

Dietary Fiber

Saturated Fat

Sodium

550 mg Source: USDA

Source: www.ready.gov/kit

Work/Life Services Newsletter September 2017 Call our toll-free number 1-800-364-6352 for assistance

Handle Stress Before It Handles You No one is immune to stress. It's a part of life, whether the physical stress of a harried schedule, or the mental stress of money problems. People respond to and rate stress differently, but stress is usually defined as a negative feeling, according to the National Mental Health Association (NMHA). Much of the stress we complain of or react to is tied to everyday responsibilities, the NMHA says. And not all stress is easily recognizable by us. But our bodies respond automatically: increasing blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, metabolism and blood flow to your muscles, the NMHA says. This response is valuable when fleeing a dangerous situation, but when you face stress daily, the result can affect your health, weakening your immune system and leaving you more susceptible to illness. By understanding what is causing you stress, you may be able to make changes to help you feel more in control.

Impact of stress People are affected differently by stress. Some feel overwhelmed about lack of time, others are more irritable and less patient, and some are unable to focus well. Stress can cause physical, emotional and behavioral problems that can affect your health, as well as your personal and professional relationships, the NMHA says. Too much stress can cause relatively minor illnesses such as insomnia, backaches or headaches, and can contribute to potentially life-threatening diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease. Stress also is strongly linked to depression. 1

How to cope Dealing effectively with stress takes determination, persistence and time, the NMHA says. Here are suggestions for coping with stress; some may help immediately, but others may help in the long term. Learn to accept or change stressful situations when you can.

Learn to say no If you feel overwhelmed by your (or your family's) hectic schedule, figure out what you can eliminate -- and learn to say no to new responsibilities, the NMHA says. Tell family and friends why you are making changes, and be willing to listen to other people's suggestions.

Pass up perfection You're not superman or superwoman, so don't expect perfection from yourself -or others, the NMHA says. Be realistic about what you can accomplish, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

One at a time Focus on one task you need to do at a time. Decide which is the most urgent and tackle that one first. From there, go down your list one at a time. This will help keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

Have a support system It's OK to lean on others. Taking time to talk with friends and family about what's bothering you can make a real difference, the NMHA says. Instead of simply complaining about issues, talk about ways to solve the problems causing your stress. And, if your stressors become overwhelming, your next step should be turning to a mental health professional.

Exercise and enjoy your leisure time Step away from your stress by setting aside time for exercise, leisure and relaxation. Don't use leisure time as a reward for completing work or chores. Build it into your schedule all through the year.

Some people like quietness and can use relaxation exercises such as meditation to ease their stress because they find it refreshing and restorative. Other people like to be active and are more apt to find physical activities, such as walking, running or other exercise, to be beneficial. Whichever style is appropriate for you, it's important to make time to de-stress regularly. In the long run, using small moments to escape your stressors can protect you from many of the damaging effects of stress. Here are other ways to increase your coping ability: • • • •

Concentrate on the present. Don't dwell on problems in your past or worries about your future. Maintain a daily routine. A familiar pattern can increase security when stress seems to be taking over. Take deep-breath breaks several times a day. Even brief stress breaks of 10 to 15 minutes can be helpful. Get regular, adequate amounts of sleep. Most people need from six to 10 hours per night.

September 2017

Wellness, Productivity, and You!

Quest Employee Assistance Program

Mindful Communication: Should You Text or Call?

ast communication is not always meaningful and effective. So, should you pick up the phone or meet in person to discuss that important issue with your coworker, colleague, boss, or customer? It could make a difference in your getting the job, smoothing over a conflict, explaining a mistake, or getting the sale. This is called “mindful communication”-- choosing the right communication method. That might be text, but be mindful about it. Communication “tools” include voice, tone, appearance, and nonverbal behaviors. These resources—and those of your counterpart— may be what deliver your goal. The meaning of your communication is found in the response you get back. If it is not what you want, switch methods.

Subtle Signs of Depression

t’s easy to dismiss dips in mood, sleep issues, or suppressed appetite. But these could be subtle symptoms of depression. People with mild depression are six times more likely to slip into major depression. So, if you notice these types of symptoms, or others like sadness and waning interest in activities lingering for a couple of weeks, see a mental health professional or your EAP. Major depression can have long-term effects on your body, even contributing to dementia and heart problems. A short assessment takes only a few minutes and it could help confirm or rule out the diagnosis.

Blue Light—Not a Sleep Delight

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM A confidential service that helps employees and dependent family members to identify and resolve challenges that may be affecting them either at work or in their personal lives. 1.800.364.6352 www.questeap.com

lue light from technology screens like smart phones is known to interfere with sleep. Suppression of melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone is the reason. It helps us fall asleep and makes sleep restorative. Researchers recently demonstrated that blue light also interferes with your body’s ability to naturally reduce its temperature at night, which also enhances restorative sleep. During the night, this temperature drop hits its low at about 4 a.m. As body temperature returns to normal, you begin to awaken. Blue light inhibits this temperature drop. This in turn, causes your deep sleep period to suffer. Hence, you are tired the next day. Source: http://www.haifa.ac.il (search “blue light”)

Information in FrontLine Employee is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the counsel or advice of a qualified health or legal professional. For further help, questions, or referral to community resources for specific problems or personal concerns, contact a qualified professional. Add “http://” to source links to follow. Link titles are always case sensitive.

September 2017 FrontLine Employee

Self-Diagnosing Alcoholism

“ NO WAY!”

Childhood Obesity Is Preventable

lcoholism has been called a disease of denial for decades, which is why education about denial is essential in addiction treatment programs. It’s the #1 roadblock to self-diagnosis for those whose drinking is contributing to life problems. A common description of denial is found in the statement, “I don’t have a problem with alcohol, because I can take it or leave it. I can quit drinking at any time.” Of course, anyone who drinks can do these things. It’s “staying stopped”—which is what’s required to arrest the illness—that’s the challenge. The following are also associated with denial. Do you recognize them in yourself or someone you know? 1) Knowing certain symptoms of the illness one does not have, and relying upon these to convince oneself and others that a drinking problem does not exist. 2) Creating rules to manage risk associated with a history of overdrinking (e.g., never drinking before 5 p.m.). 3) Relying upon or maintaining a definition of alcoholism that excludes oneself, but changing this definition over time so it continues to fit one’s drinking pattern. (e.g., I may drink in the morning, but it’s never affected my job.”). Discover more about the progression of alcoholism and discover a path to wellness that works for you or someone you know by visiting with a professional counselor, EAP, or other knowledgeable expert.

ne in three children in the United States is overweight or obese, and childhood obesity has tripled in Canada in the past 30 years. Mexico leads the world in this health care epidemic. Childhood obesity puts kids at risk for health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Don’t badger. Instead, start making healthy changes in your family to help your child. Habits come in fits and starts, so keep at it, and you are more likely to develop values for positive health habits. Walk around the neighborhood, go on bike rides, play basketball—it’s up to you to find what works. Minimize time spent on computers, watching TV, and playing video games. Make healthy meals: Buy and serve more vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain foods. For more tips, sign up for the presale of “Achieving a Healthy Weight for Your Child: An Action Plan for Families,” which is due out in 2018.

How to Up Your Team Skills

Empower Yourself After a Layoff

hat jolt you feel after a sudden layoff is from fear of income loss, change, anger, loss of relationships, and disbelief hitting you at the same time. It’s hard not to panic, but manage this moment with a one-dayat-a-time approach so you can prepare for a new phase in your life that may surpass this one. Line up resources—ranging from internal supports offered by your employer to meeting with your counselor (e.g., your EAP). Process the upheaval to keep it from interfering with your action plan and so you stay focused on the big picture. Take lots of action. Action is the magnet that draws new opportunities to you and the next exciting phase of your life.

howing up, pitching in, being timely, and communicating well are all part of being on a team. But here are five essential roles you may not have considered. See if any create underperformance for your team. 1) Leadership. Even if you are not the team leader, you can still practice leadership behaviors—think proactively, take initiative, and “think upstream” to prevent future problems. 2) Conflict Resolution. Spot conflicts early and facilitate resolution. 3) “Other” Awareness Skills. Continually sense the needs of team members (e.g., sensing others are overworked, you pitch in to share more of the load). 4) Checking In. Disagreements happen, but personality clashes can be toxic. Check in—ask, find out whether things are “OK between us.” 5) Diversity Awareness. Pay attention to—and grow appreciation for—the variety of skills and abilities of team members while seeking ways to best utilize them.

Source: U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Health and wellness tips for your work, home and life—brought to you by the insurance professionals at The Reschini Group

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the official government goal for the year 2020 is to be up to a 70 percent five-year survivorship rate.

SURVIVING CANCER Life after cancer is a growing reality for a number of Americans who are now described as cancer survivors, rather than victims. However, there is significant emotional, physical, and financial stress associated with fighting cancer, and survivors may have trouble coping with the aftermath of a cancer battle. Cancer Survivors Are On the Rise People are now surviving long after they have been diagnosed with cancer. Advances in early detection, better and more targeted drugs, and improved technologies are making remission a reality for millions. In addition, statistics show that those diagnosed with cancer have reasons now, more than ever before, to be hopeful. Seek Out Support Though you are undoubtedly grateful to have survived your battle with cancer, there is no shame in struggling to adjust to your life after cancer. You may have physical limitations, financial hardships, or emotional stress. It is important to take care of your needs and seek out support when it is too much to handle on your own:

overcome a physical limitation in your daily life, or simply having someone to talk to. • Utilize online resources such as http://csn.cancer.org, which offer online support groups and other valuable information for cancer survivors. • Seek out local resources, such as community organizations, church groups, or social services. Live a Healthy Life! If you beat your battle with cancer, ensure you live the healthiest life possible going forward. Get plenty of exercise on a daily basis; 30 minutes or more are encouraged. Eat whole grains, plenty of vegetables and fruits, lean sources of protein, and drink lots of water. Stay away from excessive amounts of salt, fat, alcohol, and sweets. Finally, follow up with your physician on a regular basis. The Future Looks Bright In November 2008, the highly acclaimed “Annual Report to the Nation” revealed that both incidence and death rates for all cancers has declined—the first decrease since the report was issued in 1998.

• Ask your doctor for a referral to a therapist, counselor, or support group. A therapist can not only help you emotionally, but can also help you find financial resources for cancer patients and survivors. • Share your concerns with family and close friends, and let them know that you need their support. This may include helping you

This brochure is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. © 2007-2010, 2014 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Nutrition & Nutrition & Wellness, Nutrition & Education, LLC WNE would like to offer personalized health and wellness coaching services to Owen J. Roberts school district again this year. We will be offering telephonic health coaching! Day or Evening appointments are available! All employees with Independence Blue Cross insurance plans will get Contact us to schedule an appointment!

6 FREE visits covered 100%, no co-pays!

Phone: 610-644-5870 Email: wne@workplacenutrition.net

District Events SEPTEMBER Chesco Walk Day Sept. 23 EF Fall Event Sept. 23 OCTOBER Make a Difference Food Drive Oct. 3-27 Cavalcade Oct. 7 Pink Out Football Game Oct. 20 Homecoming Weekend Oct. 20-21 Red Ribbon Week Oct. 23-31 Make a Difference Collection Oct. 27 REA Safe Trick or Treat Night Oct. 26 NOVEMBER Run101 Event Nov. 4 OJRHS Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Celebration Nov. 10 MS Night of the Arts Nov 21 American Education Week Nov. 13-17 DECEMBER OJRHS Senior Citizen Concert & Tea Dec. 11

Join us for the Owen J. Roberts 47th Annual

Cavalcade of Bands

Saturday, October 7, 2017 - Gates open at 5:00 pm

La Fiesta del Fuego

adults $10 seniors $8 students $5

3RD ANNUAL OWEN J. ROBERTS HS

Every Purchase Benefits The OJR Marching Wildcats!

Twin From $259 | Full From $289 | Queen From $299 | King /CA-King From $499

.com/CustomFundraisingSolutionsPhiladelphia

.com/CFSPhilly #Beds4OJR

dcox@customfundraisingsolutions.com

When: Saturday, October 21 Time:

10AM - 5PM

Where: Middle School

BENEFITS OWEN J. ROBERTS HS BAND

OJR

G-500 SHORT SLEEVE SAFETY PINK

Youth: YS, YM, and YL $15.00 Adult: S-XL $15.00 -Adult: 2XL & 3XL $17.00 G-200L LADIES CUT SHORT SLEEVE SAFETY PINK

PINK-OUT 2017 ORDER FORM Name: Room Number:

EXAMPLE C.

25.00

EXAMPLE A.

15.00

OJR FOOTBALL TEAM MEMBER DISCOUNT

$1 OFF PER ITEM

Adult: XS-XL $15.00 -Adult: 2XL & 3XL $17.00

G-185 SPORT GREY HOODIE

Youth: YS, YM, and YL $25.00 Adult: S-XL $25.00 -Adult: 2XL & 3XL $27.00

Owen J. Roberts Middle School Please Send to: Owen J. Roberts Middle School Attn: Jason Hess

JHess@ojrsd.com ORDER DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

Get Your Pink-Out Shirts Now! Support Unite For Her!

Orders Due:

Pink Out Game:

Sept. 27th

Oct. 20th

Order forms are available on our school website. Turn in order forms to Mr. Hess in the band room.

N O E

COLOR

5K Run/Walk 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk at Owen J. Roberts High School Track

NOVEMBER 4, 2017 9am Check-In

10:00 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk 10:30 5K Run & Walk

Additional Info and Registration http://ojrrun101.weebly.com/ All proceeds from the RUN 101 Color Run go directly to student programs through the Best Buddies organization and Roberts Education Foundation.

Chester County FaciliƟes & Parks The Friends of Warwick County Park South Coventry, Warwick & East Nantmeal Townships

COMMUNITY DAY 2017

September 23 10 AM - 2 PM

Repitle Show 10:30 AM 12:30 PM

FREE!

Parking & Admission 191 County Park Road, PoƩstown, PA 19465

610-469-1916

chesco.org/parks

A Vitamix machine can make hundreds of healthy, delicious meals in minutes. With these special offers, balancing work and life just got a lot easier.

379.00

5-year warranty FREE SHIPPING

OJRSDVITA

https://www.vitamix.com/us/en_us/Shop

URL:

Expires:

September 30, 2017

K G UA RA

Three Easy Ways to Order

If you’re not satisfied with your Vitamix product, send it back within 30 days for a full refund.

Promotion Code:

5-year Full Warranty & 30 Day Risk-Free Trial

5-year warranty FREE SHIPPING

The Vitamix Cookbook Free gift with every purchase! $19.95 value

plus tax

Visit vitamix.com and enter code at checkout

plus tax

New starting at $519.00

Call: 866.278.5772

199.00

Black

Certified Reconditioned Standard 780

Black

Certified Reconditioned Two Speed

IN HOME

Email: corpaccounts@vitamix.com

Visit vitamix.com for additional product details and payment plan options. For purchasing information outside the U.S. or Canada call +1.440.235.4840 or email household@vitamix.com. ©2017 Vita-Mix® Corporation

8/17