Balanced You offers health and well-being options to support employees so you can feel good, get the most out of life, and do your best work for the people of King County.
It is common to feel stressed (or distressed) about food and exercise during celebrations, and this often peaks at winter holidays. Balanced You and our dietician partners at Public Health want to remind you to be gentle and kind to yourself. The winter holidays and the new year are a great time to take a... Continue Reading →
With holiday gatherings around the corner, it’s important to be up to date on your flu shot and COVID-19 vaccination. King County Public Health officials are noting that respiratory viral infections have increased both locally and nationally. October flu hospitalization rates were the highest reported at that time of the season in 10 years. Getting your... Continue Reading →
My Secure Advantage (MSA) is a financial wellness program that provides King County employees with tools and coaching to help you reach your financial goals. In this video, Balanced You's Employee Health Specialist, Karla Clark interviews MSA Financial Advisor, Tiffany Willis about financial planning for the holidays and how to recover after. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DS3C5ScImeQ For more information... Continue Reading →
November 11 is Veterans Day and Balanced You would like to thank our employees who have served and honor the continued service you provide as a King County employee. In partnership with the Veterans and Military Affinity Group and the King County Veteran Fellows Program, we would like to share resources to support emotional well-being,... Continue Reading →
Cross-posted from Public Health Insider As fall rolls around and holiday gatherings approach, so does flu season. That means it’s time to think about another important vaccine you should get this year: your flu shot. Here are ten things to know about the flu shot and why it’s so crucial this fall. 1. You may... Continue Reading →
Open Enrollment is here and runs through Tuesday, Nov. 15. Choosing the right benefits is an important part of your overall health and well-being. There are many changes to next year’s benefits that affect nearly everyone, so take the time to learn about those changes and make the right choices for you and your family... Continue Reading →
October is Disability Awareness Month. Disability includes a broad spectrum of conditions that effect physical and mental health. If you are someone who lives with a mental health diagnosis and would like additional support, here are benefits and resources for your consideration.
King County is committed to supporting employees with mental health conditions in the workplace. For many people, employment is an essential part of our identity, well-being and mental and physical health. Employment provides a sense of purpose and allows us to build connections with others. Fostering a culture that promotes self-care and focuses on mental... Continue Reading →
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. This year we want to focus on importance of early detection—testing for cancer before it spreads. Detecting breast cancer early allows for the best possibility of successful treatment. Here are three steps to early detection: 1. Breast self-awareness ... Continue Reading →
Balanced You Wellness Heroes highlights employees doing things to better their lives, the lives of their colleagues, and our community. Meet Wellness Hero Junelle Kroontje, Employee Social Impact and Well-being Manager. In this video she talks about the Annual Giving Drive and ways we can make an impact in our community by giving to causes... Continue Reading →
The Annual Giving Drive is underway and King County employees have until November 18 to hold fundraisers, promote causes they are passionate about, and sign up for payroll donations to a participating Employee Giving nonprofit. But did you know that you can also use up to three sick days per calendar year to volunteer at... Continue Reading →
Balanced You continues to partner with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. All classes are held live on Zoom. Mindfulness is a practice that can help you quiet your mind, find focus, and reduce some of the stress many of us experience. This fall, we have classes available for all... Continue Reading →
September is Recovery Month and this year’s theme is “Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community.” Balanced You celebrates all those on their recovery journeys and is joining King County’s Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) Behavioral Health and Recovery Division in their shared vision to ensure that everyone in King County... Continue Reading →
For Suicide Prevention Awareness month, we are highlighting a King County employee who has made a huge impact in advancing the conversation around suicide. Wellness Hero Skyler Bridges, Administrative Staff Assistant in Department of Assessments, talks about his experience loosing loved ones to suicide and how he began healing. To read more about dealing with... Continue Reading →
Every September, King County observes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month as a reminder of the importance of checking in on each other and seeking support in times of crisis. This year, King County Balanced You talks with Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselors about how to support loved ones, and the importance of destigmatizing the conversation around... Continue Reading →
By Whitney Abrams, Chief People Officer Whitney Abrams, Chief People Officer September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and it’s a reminder for all of us of the importance of checking in on each other and seeking support in times of crisis. We know that every year thousands of individuals die by suicide, leaving behind... Continue Reading →
Preventive Care is a term that means routine health care services, such as check-ups, screenings, and tests, to prevent illnesses and health problems. Examples of preventative care include cholesterol tests, annual checkups with your Primary Care Provider (PCP), and colon cancer and breast cancer screenings. Preventive care is important even if you don’t feel sick.... Continue Reading →
Far from being a sign of weakness, grieving is a healthy and naturally healing process. This National Grief Awareness Day, August 30, 2022, Balanced You and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) are raising awareness around the many ways individuals cope with loss and sharing resources to help when you or a loved one needs support. While... Continue Reading →
King County wants employees to be healthy so you can feel good, get the most out of life, and do your best work for the community we serve. If you missed the opportunity to get a flu shot at work, here are some tips for getting your flu shot through your health plan.
Getting a flu shot is an important part of protecting your health, your family’s health, and your community’s health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu shot every year. Flu shots have many important benefits; getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of... Continue Reading →
Balanced You Wellness Heroes highlights employees doing things to better their lives, the lives of their colleagues, and our community. Meet Damont Cain, Power Technical Assistant at King County Metro Power and Distribution, whose team was instrumental in bringing an activity center to his worksite location. Damont talks about why staying physically strong is important... Continue Reading →
My Secure Advantage (MSA) is a financial wellness program that provides King County employees with tools and coaching to help you reach your financial goals. Appreciating that many employees may be anxious about their finances – from rising prices to the value of their investments – MSA has prepared the two flyers: Inflation: What Can... Continue Reading →
July is BIPOC Mental Health Month. Established in 2008 in honor of Bebe Moore Campbell, the formally recognized National Minority Mental Health Awareness month was created to bring awareness to the unique mental health struggles that underrepresented groups in the U.S. experience. Bebe Moore Campbell was a pioneer and an author, who used storytelling to give... Continue Reading →
Balanced You continues to partner with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. All classes are held live on Zoom. Mindfulness is a practice that can help you quiet your mind, find focus, and reduce some of the stress many of us experience. This summer, we have classes available for all... Continue Reading →
Every June, Balanced You celebrates Pride Month, a celebration of visibility, connection, and self-affirmation for the LGBTQ+ community. This year, Balanced You is focusing on the importance a sense of community plays in employee well-being by amplifying the King County LGBTQ+ Affinity Group. King County LGBTQ+ Affinity Group Affinity Groups provide spaces where employees with... Continue Reading →
Mental Health Month is celebrated in May of each year. Due to the profound impacts of the COVID pandemic, the national conversation around mental health is normalizing. This year, Mental Health America has focused Mental Health Month on “Back to Basics,” helping re-center us on what mental health is, how we can support our mental... Continue Reading →
Balanced You continues to partner with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. All classes are held live on Zoom. Mindfulness is a practice that can help you quiet your mind, find focus, and reduce some of the mental strain we are all going through. Additionally, mindfulness can support you in... Continue Reading →
In honor of American Heart Month, Balanced You's partner, Omada, is sharing a delicious and easy way to support your heart health. Omada is a free service to King County employees that helps you lose weight, gain energy, and improve your overall health. They match you with a health coach you can message anytime. Click... Continue Reading →
For Black History Month, Balanced You is excited to recognize our many talented Black employees in different bodies of work around the county. Welcome new county employee, Amber Heyward. With a background in HR, Learning and Development and Organizational Development, she started at King County four months ago as an Organizational Development practitioner. In this... Continue Reading →
For Black History Month, Balanced You is excited to recognize our many talented Black employees in different bodies of work around the county. Health Hero, Debra Baker, is an Organizational Development Lead in the Department of Human Resources. Her work supports departments, teams, and employees across the county by developing organizational health solutions and plans.... Continue Reading →
For Black History Month, Balanced You is excited to recognize our many talented Black employees in different bodies of work around the county. Health Hero, Kanesa Monroe, is a single mother and a LAN Administrator Journey with KCIT. In this video, she talks about working on the onboarding management system, while juggling being a mom... Continue Reading →
Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being that can often be misunderstood or overlooked. To increase awareness about mental health and highlight supportive resources, Balanced You has partnered with the National Council of Behavioral Health to offer Mental Health First Aid@Work trainings. These trainings are available to all County employees, free... Continue Reading →
This year, try a new approach to healthy habits with Omada, a personalized program that surrounds you with the tools and support you need to reach your health goals, whether that’s preventing diabetes, managing diabetes, or improving your overall health. King County offers Omada to help you build healthy habits that stick, one small change... Continue Reading →
Balanced You is partnering once again with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. All classes are held live on Zoom. “COVID-brain” is a term used colloquially to describe the fatigue and forgetfulness our minds are experiencing as a result of the stress and anxiety from the ongoing pandemic. Mindfulness is... Continue Reading →
As the pandemic continues on, it’s understandable that stress levels may be rising. It is important to show love and compassion to ourselves and to others. Watch this webinar from Balanced You with great ideas and techniques to keep your mind, body, and spirit in a good place this winter and year-round. As you watch... Continue Reading →
In the prolonged emergency of the COVID-19 pandemic - a year and a half filled with uncertainty and emotional turmoil, along with the disproportionate impact of racism on Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities – we are seeing the development of compassion fatigue and burnout in the workplace. These conditions can lead to... Continue Reading →
Introducing Balanced You’s new pilot program, Food and Body Liberation. This program draws upon the Health at Every Size approach to support participants in healing their relationship to food and body. All of us have received and been impacted by harmful messages around our bodies and food. This might come from social media and news... Continue Reading →
In honor of Disability Awareness Month, King County employees joined a virtual conversation that featured employees with disabilities who shared their personal experiences of disability disclosure, perspective from a supervisor’s understanding, alongside a Disability Service representative who shared resources available to support employees with disabilities and the process of navigating accommodations. Watch the recording here:... Continue Reading →
Meet Health Hero Megan Jourdan, Project Manager on the Balanced You team. Megan started with King County in 2019 after a traumatic brain injury kept her from working for two years. While recovering from the injury, Megan had accrued debt and didn’t feel she had the tools or knowledge to meet her financial goals. Megan... Continue Reading →
King County Department of Human Resources is excited to announce the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has expanded! EAP supports employees by providing free, confidential counseling on work-related issues. We all experience stress at some point and having someone to talk to can be a helpful outlet to process emotions, navigate challenging situations or provide tangible... Continue Reading →
Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from September 15th to October 15th. As Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, Balanced You would like to share resources to support emotional well-being for the Latinx community, including spaces for celebration, joy, and connection; tips for self- and collective-care; and mental health guides. Celebration and connection Celebration and connection are an integral part of... Continue Reading →
For people with disabilities, navigating a society constructed by and for people considered to have “typical” abilities can be a constant battle, and one that further entrenches the discrimination they face. According to the 2010 census, nearly one in five Americans experience disability. Some people’s disabilities are visible to others and include physical disabilities such... Continue Reading →
Being open and honest about how we’re feeling at work is sometimes hard, but know this: If you’re a little anxious, fatigued or even burned out, you are not alone. The pandemic continues to change the ways we work, learn, and connect – and it can be a lot to cope with. That is why... Continue Reading →
Balanced You is partnering once again with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. All classes are held live on Zoom. "COVID-brain" is a term used colloquially to describe the fatigue and forgetfulness our minds are experiencing as a result of the stress and anxiety from the ongoing pandemic. Mindfulness is... Continue Reading →
Back to school is always a hectic time of year, and the additional stress of COVID-19 has taken its toll on families. Balanced You has a few resources to share to help ease some stress. Recorded webinar: Covid-19 and Kids Recently, Balanced You hosted a webinar with members of the Public Health – Seattle &... Continue Reading →
Due to technical difficulties, this event was rescheduled for October 1, 2021. King County employees are invited to join community facilitators to hold space for our feelings and experiences related to COVID-19 and vaccination. Let’s Talk COVID-19: A Conversation on Trauma, Stigma, Grief and Growth Friday, Oct. 1 12:30 - 2 p.m. Zoom link: https://kingcounty.zoom.us/j/85055960730... Continue Reading →
(Modified from content from HelpGuide.org) Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and almost 800,000 people around the world die by suicide every year. Each one leaves behind a host of “suicide survivors,” people who’ve lost someone close to them in this tragic way. The loss of someone you love from suicide... Continue Reading →
On September 15, 2021, King County Balanced You hosted a webinar with members of the Public Health – Seattle & King County COVID-19 Schools and Child Care Task Force. Watch the recorded webinar below to learn about the mitigation strategies that help reduce the risk of COVID-19 to young children. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-vdtn3rbGE At the end of... Continue Reading →
“I’ll never forget the day the phone rang. I felt powerless, I felt stuck. I wanted to help but I didn’t know how, who to call, or what to do. I wanted to solve the problem, but I didn’t know the first place to start.” Being on the receiving end of a phone call or... Continue Reading →
Every other Wednesday, Balanced You hosts Coffee Connections, a chance to connect socially and meet new people across the county. On Wednesday, Sept. 1, the Coffee Connection theme was all about fall recipes. We got some great ideas and yummy recipes to share with everyone who couldn't make the event. Don't miss next Coffee Connections... Continue Reading →
On Sept. 2, Balanced You hosted a webinar with Senior Staff Scientist at Fred Hutchinson, Dr. Michele Andrasik, for an in-depth overview of the COVID-19 vaccines. Watch the recorded webinar here and download the slides with notes below. The information provided will assist King County employees in their efforts to make informed decisions to protect... Continue Reading →
We are all eager for this pandemic to be over so we can get back to the things we love doing without restrictions or anxiety. However, COVID-19 continues to adapt, evolve, and thwart our efforts to return to engaging with others safely. Following the actions of many other public and private employers, King County is requiring... Continue Reading →
In this conversation, Balanced You, King County Metro Wellness and Employee Assistance Program talk about the grief and loss many of our frontline employees have experienced during the pandemic. Learn how grief doesn’t just pertain to a death but also can be the loss of connection, relationships, work and more. In addition, learn about cultural... Continue Reading →
You may have heard of Making Life Easier (MLE) as a free mental health counseling service for King County employees, but did you know MLE offers many more services, beyond mental health support, designed to truly help make life easier for you and your family? In this article Balanced You will spotlight a new MLE benefit for... Continue Reading →
Balanced You, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and KC Metro Wellness are partnering for a Well-being and Belonging event on Monday, August 30 to commemorate National Grief Awareness Day. Grief Support Resources Grieving is never easy. During times of COVID-19, grief can seem even more complex. Our ways of honoring and witnessing each other may have changed. The... Continue Reading →
You may have heard of Making Life Easier (MLE) as a free mental health counseling service for King County employees, but did you know MLE offers many more services, beyond mental health support, designed to truly help make life easier for you and your family? Each week, Balanced You will spotlight a new MLE benefit... Continue Reading →
Many King County employees who are COVID-19 responders have experienced or are currently experiencing transitions out of their response role. Transitioning out of your role as a responder can feel like a type of loss, and loss can bring grief. Employees who are experiencing transition grief may feel complex feelings such as anxiety, sadness, or... Continue Reading →
Balanced You is partnering once again with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. Mindfulness is a practice that can support you in reducing stress at work and at home. Mindfulness techniques are especially useful now, as we continue to move through the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. All classes are... Continue Reading →
July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Established in 2008 in honor of Bebe Moore Campbell, Minority Mental Health Awareness month was created to bring awareness to the unique mental health struggles that underrepresented groups in the U.S. experience. Anyone can experience mental health challenges, they do not discriminate based on race, age, gender... Continue Reading →
Adapted from Making Life Easier webinar Loneliness and lack of social connection has been amplified throughout the pandemic. Whether you have been working from home or on the front lines, we have all had been more distanced from our coworkers and community, and loneliness can set in and take over our lives. Even as things... Continue Reading →
This June Balanced You celebrates Pride Month, a celebration of visibility, equality, connection, and self-affirmation for the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize the accomplishments and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community and reflect on the injustices and discrimination the community has faced throughout history and continues to face today. Pride began as a protest against discrimination and... Continue Reading →
As more of the world opens up, we’ve heard from employees their desire to recommit to health goals that may have taken a back seat during the COVID-19 pandemic. First off, Balanced You wants to acknowledge the intensity of the pandemic and remind you that you have done your best amidst a high stress and... Continue Reading →
Omada for Diabetes Prevention If you are looking to start or recommit to healthy routines, Omada is a free program that supports your goals with a health coach and interactive weekly lessons. Whether you want to eat better, lose weight, move more, or have more energy, Omada will personalize a plan that can help you... Continue Reading →
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve changed every aspect of our lives to protect ourselves and our community from spreading coronavirus. In 2020, many medical visits were put on hold or moved to telehealth, causing many of us to skip our routine preventive visits. But the past few years have been hard on... Continue Reading →
While Mental Health Month may be over, King County’s care for your mental health continues. Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make positive choices. King County and Balanced You are... Continue Reading →
For the final week of mental health month, we are focusing on the topic “taking time for yourself.” Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have had our world turned upside down. Whether you have been working onsite, providing essential services to our community, or working from home where your home and... Continue Reading →
May is Asian American & Pacific Islander Month. This May, Balanced You celebrates the significant contributions the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities have made in our region. We encourage all employees to learn more about the rich cultural heritage within the AAPI community. With a dramatic rise in anti-Asian hate crimes since the... Continue Reading →
We are three weeks into Mental Health Month. How are you feeling? Have you been able to incorporate some of the tips and utilize the worksheets from week one (Adapting after trauma and stress) and week two (Dealing with anger and frustration)? The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound impacts on the mental health of people... Continue Reading →
There are amazing mental health resources at your fingertips as a King County employee, but it can be a little time-consuming to understand which one is the right choice for your situation. Balanced You encourages employees to utilize two free resources, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Making Life Easier (MLE). EAP is a confidential counseling... Continue Reading →
For the second week of Mental Health Month, Balanced You is focusing on the topic “dealing with anger and frustration.” Emotions are what make us human. Feelings like joy, compassion and excitement bring enrichment to our lives. But sometimes negative emotions get the better of us. During tough times, negative thoughts can spiral out of... Continue Reading →
This past year presented so many different challenges and obstacles that tested our strength and resiliency. The global pandemic forced us to cope with situations we never even imagined, and a lot of us struggled with our mental health as a result. Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It also influences how... Continue Reading →
Balanced You is partnering once again with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. Mindfulness is a practice that can support you in reducing stress at work and at home. Mindfulness techniques are especially useful now, as we continue to move through the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. In... Continue Reading →
Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is available to all Washington residents over 16, many are trying to understand their choices. Balanced You wants to support employees by connecting you with the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family. We encourage you to turn to trusted resources, like Public Health... Continue Reading →
Mindfulness classes have remained popular among employees, providing many with tools to navigate the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic. Last year, Balanced You worked with Mindfulness Northwest to develop a series of free mindfulness videos for King County employees. We are excited to share new uploaded videos to practice mindfulness wherever you are. What... Continue Reading →
Balanced You has partnered with My Secure Advantage (MSA) to provide a complete financial wellness benefit to all employees. By connecting with a personal Money Coach, you can build a stronger and more secure future no matter where you are in your financial journey. 3 Important Things to Know ❶ No two stories are alike, and... Continue Reading →
This Health Hero is spotlighting Affinity Groups. Affinity Groups can boost mental health and well-being through community among people with shared interests or identities. They offer a space to connect, network and find support and fellowship. Connection through Affinity Groups can support personal and professional growth and promote equity and social justice. Keith Clarke joined... Continue Reading →
Everyone needs support for total health — mind, body, and spirit. Finding support and carving out time to focus on your emotional health is important. Balanced You has partnered with Kaiser Permanente and Regence to bring King County employees myStrength, a free digital tool that can help you navigate life’s challenges and support an overall... Continue Reading →
March is National Nutrition month, which is a great time to find new cooking inspiration and learn how to add more nutrition to your daily meals. Balanced You is highlighting recipes and tips available through our program partner, WW (Weight Watchers reimagined). Learn more about WW WW is a reimagined, flexible approach to improving overall... Continue Reading →
At the start of the year we launched our Balanced You Hope & Joy Campaign to support each other by finding ways to connect and share stories. As we continue to navigate through the pandemic, it is important we acknowledge the difficult times but also keep each other encouraged by staying connected. We want to... Continue Reading →
With the ongoing stress and uncertainty of the pandemic, mental health care has become a priority for many people’s well-being. As a King County Employee, you have access to comprehensive health care coverage, including mental health coverage. Balanced You recognizes it can be overwhelming to keep track of all the benefits available to you and... Continue Reading →
Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being that can often be misunderstood or overlooked. To increase awareness about mental health and highlight supportive resources, Balanced You has partnered with the National Council of Behavioral Health to offer Mental Health First Aid@Work trainings. These trainings are available to all County employees, free... Continue Reading →
Back by popular demand, Balanced You is partnering once again with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees. Mindfulness is a practice that can support you in reducing stress at work and at home. Mindfulness techniques are especially useful now, as we continue to move through the uncertainty of... Continue Reading →
It is normal to feel your mental health and emotional well-being are being challenged during these ongoing difficult and uncertain times. Balanced You is here to remind King County employees that there are resources available to support you. Below you will find a list of links to resources tailored for different audiences - such as... Continue Reading →
As we welcome in 2021, we at Balanced You want to take a moment to reflect on the growing importance of well-being in 2020 and share our plans for this coming year. If there is a silver lining on the last year, it’s the realization at every level of the organization that well-being needs to... Continue Reading →
As we move into 2021, you may find yourself thinking about your New Year’s Resolutions. While health and well-being goals are helpful, some types of goals can leave us feeling guilty or insufficient if we don’t reach or sustain them. Balanced You supports employees’ well-being goals and encourages everyone to approach their 2021 resolutions with... Continue Reading →
This year, the Balanced You blog became an even more important source of information for King County employees, with readership doubling from 12,000 visitors in 2019 to 24,000 visitors in 2020. Articles included COVID-19 supports, well-being tips, program information, and resources for allyship. To round out 2020, Balanced You is highlighting our top 10 most... Continue Reading →
The holiday season will look different for many people this year. Many of us will still find ways to cultivate joy and cherish time with loved ones, whether virtually or safely in-person. Many of us will also undergo sadness and fatigue from experiencing holidays during a pandemic. Balanced You and King County’s Making Life Easier program offer the... Continue Reading →
Planning holidays during a pandemic is a tough feat. While news of COVID-19 vaccines brings a welcome light at the end of the tunnel, we still need to follow social distancing and mask recommendations until the vaccine is available to try to keep ourselves, our loved ones, and our community safe. To help employees safely... Continue Reading →
As we move through the difficulty and stress of a socially isolating pandemic, Balanced You is launching the Hope and Joy Campaign. Throughout the winter, we will find ways to connect with one another through moments of hope and joy. The Hope and Joy Campaign does not exist to quiet other emotions you may be... Continue Reading →
As we move into the winter months of this pandemic, many people are experiencing increased isolation and stress, which can contribute to deteriorating mental health. If you or your loved ones are struggling emotionally, Balanced You wants you to know that you are not alone, and that professional help is available from the safety of... Continue Reading →
November is Native American Heritage Month. This November, Balanced You gives thanks to Indigenous communities. We honor the wisdom and culture of Indigenous people, we mourn the colonization of their land, and we celebrate the Indigenous people who continue to reside on their ancestral homeland. While the tradition of Thanksgiving has been rooted in colonization,... Continue Reading →
Thanksgiving gatherings traditionally center around time spent breaking bread with loved ones. This year, in light of the ongoing pandemic, the steep rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases, and the recent Governor orders to limit social gatherings and non-essential activities, Thanksgiving celebrations are likely to look different for many people. Fortunately, there are still safe, fun,... Continue Reading →
Open Enrollment is King County employee’s annual opportunity to evaluate employee benefit options and make changes for the upcoming year. The 2020 Open Enrollment period is currently open until November 15. Employees who are considering choosing a new medical plan may be interested in the Washington Health Alliance’s 2020 Quality Composite Scores for Medical Groups... Continue Reading →
Tuesday, Nov. 3, was Election Day and many Americans are waiting anxiously for the results. According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association (APA), more than two-thirds of U.S. adults say the 2020 U.S. presidential election is a significant source of stress in their life. And those feelings are being experienced throughout the... Continue Reading →
Do you have ideas on how King County can better support the well-being of you and your colleagues? In response to employee surveys and listening sessions, Balanced You, is developing two new well-being advisory committees: one for telecommuters and one for essential employees working onsite. Anyone interested is invited to apply. Inspired by employees, Balanced... Continue Reading →
There are many different types of disabilities: physical and mental, invisible and visible, temporary and permanent. The pandemic has had a unique impact on the lives of people with all types of disabilities, bringing joy, relief, and difficulty. In honor of Disability Awareness Month, King County employees are invited to join the Disability Awareness Committee,... Continue Reading →
LatinX/Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from September 15th to October 15th. As LatinX/Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, Balanced You would like to remind the LatinX community about resources available to support their emotional well-being, including spaces for celebration, joy, and connection; tips for self- and collective-care; and traditional mental health resources.... Continue Reading →
You asked for it and here it is! In response to employee requests, Balanced You, in partnership with Vivecorp, is offering free, live, virtual exercise classes and on demand fitness videos. King County employees and anyone in their home, including children, are welcome to join. During the pandemic, many people have shifted their exercise routine... Continue Reading →
Mindfulness is a practice that can support you in reducing stress at work and at home. Mindfulness techniques are especially useful now, as we move through the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. Balanced You continues to partner with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees, via both employee-specific and... Continue Reading →
Employees from departments across King County have been involved in the COVID-19 response for many months now. While emergency response work is rewarding, the long hours, breadth of demands, and exposure to human suffering can adversely affect the most seasoned responder. As we transition our pandemic response into the autumn and prepare to add in... Continue Reading →
A caregiver is anyone who provides help to another person in need, such as an ill spouse or partner, a disabled child, or an aging relative. Employees who are caregivers for adults and elders are some of the unsung heroes of the pandemic. While caregiving can be joyful and rewarding, it can also be overwhelming or... Continue Reading →
As we continue to navigate the pandemic and these unprecedented times, paying special attention to your mental health and the mental health of those you love is crucial. In honor of Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, King County employees are invited to join Balanced You for a virtual conversation featuring speakers from the Black /... Continue Reading →
The past week has been difficult with wildfires threatening our state and plumes of smoke from wildfires in Oregon and California rendering Washington's air unhealthy. Wildfire smoke in our region will continue today, and will likely begin to dissipate toward the end of the week . Because wildfire smoke can cause a range of health... Continue Reading →
Balanced You understands the toll that this stressful and unprecedented time is taking on working parents and caregivers, and we want to make sure employees know there are resources available from King County to help you through this. A summary of these resources is below. If there’s anything else Balanced You can do to support... Continue Reading →
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted many aspects of daily life, and may have affected the amounts you are spending on day care and health care. The following reminders can help you make the most out of your Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), which allow you to set aside pre-tax money for day care and medical expenses.... Continue Reading →
Engaging in an emergency response to a long-term crisis is inevitably stressful. While the work is rewarding, the long hours, breadth of demands, and exposure to human suffering can be difficult for even the most seasoned responder. To support your mental health during this time, Balanced You has partnered with Mindfulness Northwest to develop a... Continue Reading →
In order to reduce the impact of the pandemic on our community, many school districts have opted for remote learning, meaning many students will be learning from home this year rather than from classroom. While this important decision reduces the risk of families contracting or spreading COVID-19, it also introduces increased financial burden to families... Continue Reading →
Social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges for people who live alone. While those living alone do not have to navigate boundaries with housemates, they may be faced with more difficulty finding social connection. Social connection is an integral part of mental and emotional well-being, and social isolation can lead to feelings of... Continue Reading →
A lay-off may be difficult to cope with mentally and emotionally. Some feelings you may experience include grief, anger, sadness, hopelessness, or relief. Any feelings you experience are valid. Remember that there are steps you can take and resources you can access to support your mental health and emotional well-being during this process. Self-care during... Continue Reading →
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken an unprecedented toll on our economy, resulting in layoffs across many industries and organizations, including local governments. In the event you are facing layoff, or are concerned about potential layoff, Balanced You has developed the following list of financial wellness resources to support you during this difficult time. Throughout this... Continue Reading →
To protect themselves from the coronavirus, many people have chosen to delay non-emergency doctors’ visits and therapy appointments, hoping they can pause their medical needs until the pandemic is over. Unfortunately, we now realize the virus is likely here to stay for many more months. And so, we are faced with the challenge of developing... Continue Reading →
King County provides mental health programs to help employees and their family cope with the personal outcomes of tragedies, stress, change, or trauma. The Making Life Easier Program (MLE) is one free resource that is available for employees to use when experiencing difficult situations. MLE offers support with various services, such as free mental health... Continue Reading →
We know that for many people, daily life looks a little different right now. As we continue to adapt, it’s more important than ever to take care of ourselves — especially if you’re living with a long-term health condition. Long-term health conditions can affect body, mind, and spirit According to the Centers for Disease Control... Continue Reading →
As we continue to maneuver through this very difficult time in our society, it is important that we manage our mental health and stress levels. Balanced You heard from employees that mindfulness classes have helped alleviate some of the anxiety many are experiencing, so we are continuing to provide these classes through August. What is... Continue Reading →
When you feel healthy, you can get the most out of life and do your best work. That’s why we created Balanced You, a program to help all King County employees meet their financial, emotional, and physical needs. Reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes with Omada Some people at risk of developing type... Continue Reading →
In June of every year, Pride Month - a celebration of visibility, equality, connection, and self-affirmation - is celebrated by the LGBTQ+ community across the country and around the world. This year, as the Black Lives Matter movement grows, it is important to remember that the first Pride was held in commemoration of the 1969... Continue Reading →
COVID-19 has resulted in urgent financial needs for many households. Fortunately, there are ways King County employees can receive financial help. Read on for more information. New access to Deferred Compensation Plan accounts If you are a member of the King County Deferred Compensation Plan through T. Rowe Price, you may be eligible to access... Continue Reading →
During the recent Balanced You webinar “A Conversation on Self-care and Connection,” we heard from employees that one of your top concerns is how the pandemic is impacting your kids. Because you asked for help supporting your kids through this, we reached out to one of the area’s top parent coaches, Sarina Behar Natkin, to... Continue Reading →
Many white people witnessing the violence against Black bodies and minds are committed to action that will set our country on a more just path. As such, many are resolving to demonstrate allyship by taking actions to counter, disrupt, and dismantle systemic racism through anti-racism. If you’ve heard these words, wondered what they mean, and... Continue Reading →
The combined impact of police violence, a pandemic disproportionately affecting People of Color, and centuries of systemic racism places undue stress on Black communities. This stress continues to impact each individual Black person’s emotional well-being uniquely, based on their identity, support systems, and other contexts. Balanced You stands with Black Lives Matter and recognizes the... Continue Reading →
For the last week of Mental Health Month, Balanced You is focusing on the topic “supporting others.” Widening our view from self-care to collective care by supporting others’ mental health is important, especially during the ongoing pandemic, which has increased stress for so many. While you may not be able to fix someone’s mental well-being,... Continue Reading →
For the third week of Mental Health month, Balanced You is focusing on the topic “connecting with others.” Social connection helps ward off social isolation and is an important part of mental health. The connections we make with other people enrich our lives and support us through the most difficult times. But, sometimes, it is... Continue Reading →
The pandemic is creating unique challenges for those faced with substance use and mental health disorders, including those in active recovery. Social isolation can heighten symptoms and cravings. Meanwhile connection – the antidote to isolation and a cornerstone of many recovery programs - has changed in the face of social distancing. Before coronavirus, rooms and... Continue Reading →
The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting everyone’s mental health in unique ways. Now, more than ever, self-care and connection are needed. In support of employees' health and well-being during this difficult time, Shawna Johnson, Balanced You Employee Health Specialist, and Heather Steffensen, Interim Employee Assistance Program Manager, led "A Conversation on Self-Care." This live, interactive webinar covered... Continue Reading →
Social distancing is one the strongest tools we have to save lives and slow the spread of the coronavirus. Yet for many of us, the practice is difficult; while social distancing keeps us and others safe, it also challenges our important need for connection. Whether you live alone or in a home full of people,... Continue Reading →
For the second week of Mental Health Month, Balanced You is focusing on the topic “creating healthy routines.” Many of our routines including nutrition, physical activity, social connection, and rest have been upended by the pandemic. Maintaining our old routines may be impossible, due to new work schedules, social distancing rules, or stress levels. As... Continue Reading →
The coronavirus pandemic is challenging professionally and personally for all of us. Perhaps you’re frustrated with yourself because you’re struggling with computer technology or having difficulty learning new job skills. Or, if you’re a parent, perhaps you’re questioning your ability as you struggle to balance your child’s online and recreation schedule. Self-compassion is a practice... Continue Reading →
Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It also influences how we cope with stress, make healthy choices, and relate to others. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and, due to the stress brought on by COVID-19, this is a particularly important year to focus on this aspect of well-being. Balanced You is... Continue Reading →
As efforts to respond to the coronavirus pandemic continue, many people feel confused and overwhelmed. Staying indoors to social distance contributes to this feeling, and may be exacerbated by our living arrangements. Balanced You has provided self-care tips for telecommuting employees living with children at home. It is important to also note that telecommuters who... Continue Reading →
It is okay to not feel okay right now. This pandemic is traumatic. Many of us are struggling. Our minds and bodies tend to shift into a state of hyper-vigilance when faced with trauma. Hyper-vigilance helps keep us safe and alive; it’s the mechanism in our brain that reminds us to wash our hands, wear... Continue Reading →
As the number of businesses impacted by COVID-19 continues to rise, so does the number of unemployed and furloughed workers in our community. Members of your household may have been impacted by reduced work hours or lay-offs. An unexpected change in one earner’s income can greatly impact household budgets. Fortunately, there are ways that you may... Continue Reading →
With a guiding vision of “Making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive,” King County employees are thinking about how best to support each other and our community through this pandemic. Though we are not all on the front lines, the actions we take are critical to the success of those who... Continue Reading →
First Responders and Essential Personnel are employees who report to work during an emergency. These employees are often under extreme stress as they adapt their work in response to the coronavirus pandemic. To support these employees in managing stress and caring for their own-well-being, Balanced You has developed a Self-care Toolkit for First Responders and... Continue Reading →
Essential personnel are employees whose jobs are necessary for King County to continue operating. Many of you - including staff from Metro, DAJD, FMD, Roads, the Criminal Defense system, and others - have jobs that cannot be performed at home, and so you continue to report to work each day during this pandemic. King County... Continue Reading →
Reporting to your workplace during a pandemic is challenging. The pace can be frantic, and the work can feel relentless. Many people – colleagues and customers – are stressed out, ourselves included. Whether your job is categorized as essential, front line, first responder, or mission-critical, coming into work at this time can cause anxiety, perhaps... Continue Reading →
During the uncertain economic times brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, you may find yourself becoming worried about your family’s financial stability. Wouldn’t it be great if you could turn to an impartial expert for advice? With King County’s My Secure Advantage (MSA) program, you can receive personalized advice from a professional Money Coach for... Continue Reading →
Exercising during a pandemic is tough. Our routines are thrown off. Gyms, Activity Centers, and trailheads are closed. Stress levels are high. Due to the coronavirus response, many employees are working from home, while others are pulling long hours in the office or in the field. Because everything is currently so different, it is easier... Continue Reading →
Mindfulness is a practice that can support you in reducing stress at work and at home. Mindfulness techniques are especially useful now, as we move through the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. Balanced You continues to partner with Mindfulness Northwest to offer free mindfulness classes and workshops to King County employees, via both employee-specific and... Continue Reading →
The coronavirus pandemic has radically changed our sense of security and daily routines. Everyone will experience this trauma uniquely, based on their past experiences and current situations. Even though we are each different, there are predictable emotional phases humans experience in response to crisis. We can use our understanding of these emotional phases to build... Continue Reading →
Emergency responders – healthcare workers, public health professionals, law enforcement, emergency operations staff, and others – are heroes in the battle against coronavirus. King County is grateful for your dedication to our community’s health. Thank you. Balanced You knows you are working long hours, making difficult decisions, enduring trauma, and facing human tragedy. Many of... Continue Reading →
Due to social distancing recommendations from the CDC and stay-at-home orders from Washington state leadership, Balanced You has made temporary changes to our programs so you can continue accessing many of them while social distancing. We worked with our partners to transition in-person programs and resources to online formats when possible, and to create new... Continue Reading →
For many students in King County, this time of year heralds spring break, a much-anticipated week away from school. The coronavirus outbreak has caused many families to cancel plans for break, leaving them in search of creative ways to keep their kids entertained while practicing social distancing. Below are some ideas for activities you can... Continue Reading →
Now that you have stocked up on groceries, you may be wondering how to best use all the rice and beans you bought and what recipes will boost your immune system. Balanced You has got you covered. There’s no better support for your immune system than sleeping well, exercising, managing your stress, washing your hands,... Continue Reading →
To slow the spread of coronavirus, King County employees who can telecommute have been mandated to do so until further notice. Because K-12 schools have closed, King County is temporarily allowing parents and caretakers to telecommute while caring for children at home. Telecommuting with children at home is a new experience for most employees and... Continue Reading →
The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone to process. Each of us is experiencing some degree of anxiety or stress in the face of this pandemic. Children process stress differently than adults and are uniquely affected by the way we talk about the virus, images in the media, and changes to their routine following... Continue Reading →
It is a challenging time for employees, families, and our community as we continue our efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus, and it is normal to have feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. While many things are beyond our control with this outbreak, there are many things that we can control. When we are anxious... Continue Reading →
As King County responds to the coronavirus (COVID-19), employees who can telecommute have been mandated to do so to reduce the community risk of coronavirus transmission. Furthermore, the CDC has issued guidance that everyone practice social distancing. While this strategy has many benefits, the sudden switch can throw off your routine. Balanced You wants to... Continue Reading →
Update: The 2020 Worksite Fund application period has been temporarily paused while King County focuses its efforts on stopping the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). An updated application deadline will be announced at a later date. Employees are invited to continue brainstorming Worksite Fund projects during this time. Please reach out to balancedyou@kingcounty.gov with questions... Continue Reading →
Balanced You knows getting to the doctor’s office isn’t always easy. That’s why King County employees and family members enrolled in Regence and Kaiser medical plans now have access to a convenient option for health care: telehealth visits that allow you to access board-certified, trained medical providers using your smartphone, tablet, or personal computer, without... Continue Reading →
Would you like to stress less this year? Give one of our popular mindfulness classes a try! Balanced You has partnered with Mindfulness Northwest to offer classes at county worksites, online, or in the community. Classes are available to King County employees free-of-charge, subject to availability. See the January to March 2020 calendar below. Mindfulness... Continue Reading →
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