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Breast cancer remains one of the most pressing health challenges for women worldwide, but awareness is a powerful tool in the fight against it. Each year, October brings a surge of pink ribbons and educational campaigns, reminding us of the importance of early detection, ongoing research and compassionate support for those affected.

Detecting Breast Cancer Early

Early detection saves lives, and it begins with regular screenings! The National Breast Cancer Foundation has determined that when breast cancer is found in its earliest, localized stages, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%. There are over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States who have gotten tested, diagnosed and have fought the intense battle against cancer. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force now recommends all women get screened for breast cancer every other year starting at the age of 40 instead of the previously recommended age of 50. This change aims to detect breast cancer earlier, saving more lives and improving outcomes. The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommends that high-risk women, including Black and Ashkenazi Jewish women, undergo a risk assessment by age 25 to determine if earlier screening is needed. High-risk women may need more intensive screening, including MRI surveillance, mammograms or breast ultrasounds, starting at ages 25 to 30.

 

New Screening Recommendations

If you fit into the new recommended age of 40 and haven’t already, schedule your breast cancer screening today by logging into your GHCMyChartSM account. All mammograms take place at our Hatchery Hill Clinic in Fitchburg, Wisconsin where two new imaging machines have recently been installed. If you receive your care at a clinic outside of GHC-SCW, your GHCMyChartSM account will prompt you to call to schedule your appointment.

Along with getting tested by a professional, the National Breast Cancer Foundation encourages women of all ages to do monthly breast self-exams and to be aware of their bodies to detect any abnormalities. In these self-exams, look for bumps, abnormal skin color and texture and note any sore spots.

 

Breast Cancer in Men

Breast cancer begins as a growth of either malignant or cancerous cells in breast tissue. This tissue is found in everyone, male and female. While it is most common for women, men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer, with 1 in every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the U.S. being found in a man. Men can get tested if they feel a lump or see changes to the color or thickness of skin on their chest.

Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week is marked every October 17-23. For more information about male breast cancer, including statistics, symptoms and stories from men who have survived breast cancer, please visit this page on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website.

 

How GHC-SCW is Promoting Awareness

GHC-SCW is dedicated to promoting breast cancer awareness and early detection this month and every month. On October 18-20, GHC-SCW will be wearing pink and asking members to join us to spread awareness and show our support for those diagnosed with breast cancer. During the month of October, share a selfie wearing pink on social media and tag GHC-SCW and include #GHCWearsPink for the chance to win a pink Lands’ End tote bag full of goodies!

The recent guidelines and recommendations for breast cancer screenings have been updated, and we’ve made it easy to make an appointment to receive this potentially life-changing checkup. If you are eligible for a screening and receive care at a GHC-SCW primary care clinic, follow the simple steps below:

 

Step 1: Log into your GHCMyChartSM account

Step 2: Select “Schedule an Appointment”

Step 3: Select “Mammogram Screening”

Step 4: Answer a few questions and select the time that works best for you

 

For More Information and Resources:

Urinary incontinence refers to the leakage of urine. This condition affects millions of people. Although urine leakage affects both men and women, women are two times more likely to have this problem.  Though this is common, it is not normal. People are encouraged to seek help from health care professionals.

Types of Urinary Incontinence

There are 5 types of urinary incontinence

 

Treatment Options

A visit with your health care provider can help you figure out what’s causing urinary incontinence. A combination of treatments may work best. The proper course of treatment depends on a few different factors. Some options include:

 

If you have questions about urinary incontinence, speak with your health care provider.

Physical Therapy can address pelvic and abdominal muscle coordination, strength and endurance through a therapy program that teaches you bladder control and home exercises. You will need a referral from your primary care provider to be seen by one of our pelvic floor providers.

Understanding Chronic Pain and How to Manage It

According to the CDC, 21% of adults in the United States, or nearly 51.6 million people, live with a chronic pain condition. This can impact your ability to work, attend school, participate in social outings and enjoy hobbies. Losing engagement in these activities can harm your mental health and worsen pain.

The Complex Nature of Pain

Pain is a multi-faceted experience influenced by biological, psychological and social factors. Managing persistent pain requires a personalized care plan. Your care team might include a primary care physician, physical or occupational therapist, massage therapist, psychotherapist, or other specialty provider. The treatment plan often involves multiple approaches such as medications, exercises, education, braces, assistive devices and rest.

Your Role in Managing Pain

You play a crucial role in your care plan. Understanding pain triggers and developing coping strategies can help you control your chronic pain. COMPASS is a group class at GHC for individuals struggling with daily tasks due to ongoing pain. This class covers topics that can improve your control over your pain and reduce its impact on your life. Each class focuses on a different topic:

Connection: Learn the importance of positive social connections for optimal mental and physical health.

Orientation to Neuroscience: Understand how the body and brain respond to stress and its impact on pain perception.

Modifiable Factors: Identify which physical aspects are in your control and how they can improve your pain experience.

Pain Re-framing: Define pain and its protective role in our lives.

Advocating: Empower yourself to know that you are in control, and your healthcare team should be your partners.

Social Support: Develop your support system for managing chronic pain symptoms.

Join Our COMPASS Class

Our classes are taught by Physical and Occupational Therapists and meet every other week for six sessions. Each session lasts 90 minutes and includes education, group activities, and discussion time. This class is designed for adults (18 years and older) and is limited to 12 participants. Learn more about this class and sign up by clicking here.

July is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, with the goal of raising awareness and providing support to those who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant. At GHC-SCW, we understand the profound impact these losses have on individuals and families. We commit to offering resources and support to help navigate this difficult journey.

Understanding Pregnancy and Infant Loss

Pregnancy and infant loss are more common than many realize. It’s also important to understand the terms associated with these losses as well. A miscarriage, or an early pregnancy loss, is when a pregnancy loss occurs before the 20th week of pregnancy. According to the March of Dimes, about 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. The number may actually be higher, as some pregnant people may not realize they are pregnant when they are experiencing a miscarriage. A stillbirth is when the pregnancy loss occurs in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy. In the United States, stillbirth affects about 1 in 160 pregnancies.

Despite these numbers, many misconceptions surround pregnancy loss. One of the most harmful is the belief that it is often the pregnant person’s fault. It is crucial to understand that pregnancy loss rarely happens because of anything the pregnant person did or didn’t do. Some miscarriages may be caused by problems with chromosomes. Regardless of the cause, the emotional toll of these losses is immense. Feelings of guilt, grief and isolation are common. It is important to note that most people who have a miscarriage or a stillbirth and get pregnant again have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Behavioral Health Resources at GHC-SCW

GHC-SCW offers a range of behavioral health resources to support those affected by pregnancy and infant loss. Our counseling services provide a safe space for individuals and families to express their grief and begin the healing process. Our therapists handle the unique challenges that come with such a loss. They offer compassionate and professional care.

Our behavioral health staff may also be able to connect you to local support groups. These are safe spaces where grieving parents and families connect with others who have experienced similar losses. These groups provide a sense of community and understanding., and participants may feel less isolated in their grief. Our goal is to ensure that no one faces this journey alone. If you have questions, please call (608) 441-3290.

Community Support

GHC-SCW deeply commits to supporting our local community. We partner with organizations focused on pregnancy and infant loss. One such organization is Mikayla’s Grace. Mikayla’s Grace was started in March of 2011 by Mike and Melissa Terrill after the loss of their babies, Mikayla Grace and Chase Gabriel. This organization is their way of giving back to the community, and keeping their babies’ spirits and memory alive while helping other families. Mikayla’s Grace provides comfort and support to families with babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and those who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. They offer angel memory boxes, baby loss comfort packages and other resources to help families through their grief. We proudly support Mikayla’s Grace and their mission.

Visit the Mikayla’s Grace website.

How to Seek Help and Get Involved

If you or someone you know is affected by pregnancy or infant loss, reach out for support. Accessing GHC-SCW’s behavioral health resources is straightforward. Contact our Behavioral Health services to schedule an appointment or learn more about available support groups.

Supporting Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month is also a meaningful way to get involved. Consider participating in local events, donating to organizations like Mikayla’s Grace, or volunteering your time to help those in need. Every effort helps raise awareness and provides much-needed support to grieving families.

At GHC, we offer management of confirmed miscarriage at less than 13 weeks of gestation via expectant and medication management. We also offer support, resources and understanding during this difficult time. Remember, pregnancy loss is not the pregnant person’s fault. No one should navigate this journey alone. Reach out, seek support and know that help is available.

 

Additional Information and Resources

Bereaved Parents of Madison

Hope After Loss

March of Dimes – Miscarriage, Loss, and Grief

Mikayla’s Grace

UW Health Hope After Loss Clinic

UW Health Early Pregnancy Assessment Clinic

Do you know what the pelvic floor is and what it does for your body? Understanding this important part of your body is the first step in helping you maintain its wellness and overall health.

 

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, fascia and ligaments that support your pelvic organs, such as the bladder, intestines, rectum, prostate and uterus. The largest group of muscles in the pelvic floor is the Levator Ani. The Levator Ani and the surrounding muscles act like a hammock to support your pelvic organs. They also lift upwards to help control urine flow or bowel movements and adjust tension to support our body as we move.

 

 

Pelvic Floor Issues and Care

Unfortunately, these muscles and surrounding tissues can change due to menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, cancer treatment, aging, obesity, chronic constipation and more. The key to pelvic floor wellness lies in awareness and proactive treatment, especially if you are having difficulty controlling urine and/or bowel movements or if you are experiencing pelvic pain. If you have these symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Provider to address these concerns. During your visit, your provider may give you simple tips to care for the condition on your own. They may also suggest trying a medication and/or refer you to a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic health.

If you are referred to a physical therapist, they can work with you to address these issues. They can give you lifestyle suggestions, create a series of special exercises tailored to fit your needs and provide individualized in-clinic care to decrease your symptoms and get you back to doing what you love.

 

We’re thrilled to announce the Physical Therapy Team is releasing a series of blogs featuring information and wellness tips to support your pelvic floor and overall health. Stay tuned for more exciting content on this topic!

At GHC-SCW, we are not like typical health care providers. We are a non-profit health care Cooperative, which means we focus on our members’ health and well-being, not on making money for shareholders.

Why Cooperative Health Care is Special

We follow key Cooperative principles like member control, member participation and caring for our community. As a GHC-SCW member-owner, you are more than a patient; you help make decisions about your health care. Moreover, your input helps us create the best policies and services for our community. This approach is what defines us as a leader in Cooperative health care.

Your Role as a Member

Your involvement is important. By giving feedback, filling out surveys and joining events, such as our annual meeting, you help shape our services. Consequently, this keeps us focused on meeting your needs.

The Annual Election

Each year, members vote for our Board of Directors and the Nominations Committee. These groups guide GHC-SCW and make sure we stick to our Cooperative’s values.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors champions the needs and aspirations of GHC-SCW members. They guide the Cooperative’s direction, manage its affairs, strategize for long-term objectives and explore new ways to serve member-owners. Furthermore, their leadership is crucial in ethical decision-making, accountability for the Cooperative’s activities and upholding legal responsibilities, ensuring that GHC-SCW remains true to its mission.

Nominations Committee

The Nominations Committee is key to selecting Board candidates and handling the outreach, evaluation and endorsement of nominees. This committee ensures that GHC-SCW’s Board reflects the diverse membership and upholds the Cooperative values, playing a critical role in governance. In addition, members of the committee gain deep insights into governance, connect with a wide network and significantly influence GHC-SCW’s future leadership.

Why Your Vote Matters

Your vote is a powerful way to make a difference. By learning about the issues, knowing the candidates and voting, you help keep our Cooperative strong and focused on your needs. Therefore, when members are active, GHC-SCW is better able to meet the changing health care needs of our community.

Be a Part of Our Cooperative Health Care

Every member’s voice and vote are key to guiding GHC-SCW toward a future with quality health care that matches your values and needs. Thus, we encourage you to take an active role, not just as a member, but as an owner and decision-maker in our journey to better health care.

In short, GHC-SCW’s Cooperative model lets you, our members, shape the future of your health care. Consequently, your involvement ensures we stay focused on what’s most important—your health and well-being. Join us in making a difference and guiding GHC-SCW to better serve our community.

Mental health is important, but many people don’t get the help they need because of the way society looks at it. At GHC-SCW, we’re trying to change that. We believe everyone should be able to get good mental health care without feeling judged or left out. That’s why we’re breaking down mental health stigma and how it impacts those with depression and anxiety.

 

Understanding Mental Health Stigma

Sadly, lots of people still have the wrong ideas about mental health. Some think anyone with mental health problems is dangerous or not capable. This can make people who are struggling with their mental health feel like they have to keep it a secret. And it can stop them from getting the help they need.

 

What is Depression?

Depression is a common, serious medical illness. It negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act, often leading to feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. Depression can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home. Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:

Symptoms must last at least two weeks and must represent a change in your previous level of functioning for a diagnosis of depression.

 

What Causes Depression?

While we don’t know the exact cause, there are a lot of factors that influence depression. Common triggers can include:

Learn More About Depression

 

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety or an anxiety disorder can cause intense, excessive, or consistent worry and fear about everyday situations. These feelings can interfere with daily life, don’t match the actual danger of a situation and are difficult to control. Some of the symptoms of anxiety include:

 

What Causes Anxiety?

The exact cause of anxiety is not fully understood, but there are certain factors that are known to influence it. Experiences, especially traumatic events, can trigger anxiety or anxiety disorders, particularly in individuals who are already prone to anxiety. Other factors and risks include:

Learn More About Anxiety

 

Making It Easier to Get Help

At GHC-SCW, we’re trying to make it easier for people to get help. We offer video appointments for mental health care, so people can talk to a doctor or therapist from their home. This makes it more convenient and private for them. We also have a program that provides intensive outpatient care through video, so people all over Wisconsin can get help.

 

Getting Help in Your Language

Cultural and language barriers can also prevent people from seeking care. That’s why we offer interpreter services in Spanish, Hmong and Laotian for in-person, video and phone appointments. We’re also working to have more mental health care providers who come from different backgrounds, so everyone feels understood and welcome.

 

Our Efforts to Reduce Mental Health Stigma

At GHC-SCW, we’re always working to make it easier for people to get mental health care. We do this by:

 

Join Us in Breaking the Stigma

We want everyone to be a part of breaking the stigma around mental health. By getting help when you need it, talking openly about mental health, and supporting others who are struggling, we can build a community that’s more accepting and supportive.

 

Helpful Resources

To learn more about mental illness and how to educate yourself and others about mental health stigma, check out the links below.

 

Asthma is a common condition that causes airways to become swollen and inflamed, making it hard to breathe. Asthma can be an unpredictable and sometimes scary condition. There is no cure for asthma, but you can manage and control your symptoms. GHC-SCW has resources to help with asthma education and care.

 

Respiratory Health and Asthma Education

Interested in meeting with an asthma educator? Please contact your Primary Care Provider and ask for a referral to health education.

 

Clinical Pharmacists

Contact the GHC Capitol, Sauk Trails or Hatchery Hill clinic to connect with clinical pharmacy staff.

 

Outreach for Patients with Asthma

 

To take the asthma control test, please visit the American Lung Association’s website. If your score is 20 or less, this may mean your asthma is not as controlled as it could be. Please reach out to your Primary Care Provider to discuss next steps.

For comprehensive support in managing your asthma, GHC-SCW is here to help. From personal education sessions with our respiratory health educators to expert advice from our clinical pharmacists, we provide a range of resources designed to enhance your understanding and control of asthma. Don’t let asthma manage you—take control by scheduling a consultation or asthma control test today, and ensure you’re equipped with the tools and knowledge to lead a healthier life.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. But often, this comes at the expense of neglecting our emotional well-being. Caring for your mental health is as crucial as looking after your physical health. We’ll explore the importance of nurturing your emotional well-being and provide tips to help prioritize your mental health.

 

The Importance of Emotional Well-Being

Emotional well-being refers to your ability to understand, manage and express your emotions constructively. It is vital to your overall health and affects various aspects of your life, including relationships, work and physical health. Here’s why nurturing your emotional well-being is essential:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips for Nurturing Your Emotional Well-Being

Now that we understand the importance of emotional well-being let’s explore some practical steps to nurture it:

Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care doesn’t necessarily mean bubble baths and expensive trips to the spa. (They are nice if they do help you though!) Dedicate time to self-care activities that make you happy, whether it’s reading, practicing mindfulness or pursuing a hobby.

Stay Connected

Maintain social connections with friends and loved ones. A strong support system can provide comfort during tough times. Schedule a coffee date with a friend or visit a relative you haven’t seen.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity releases endorphins, boosting your mood and reducing stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. You don’t necessarily need to do a grueling fitness class every day. Consistency is key in physical activity, so opt for activities you enjoy, whether it’s riding a bike, swimming or playing pickleball.

Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help from a behavioral health professional. They can provide valuable guidance and support. They can also refer you to helpful resources and programs, like our Foundations Intensive Outpatient Program. Substance use disorders can also hurt mental health. GHC-SCW Primary Care Providers offer compassionate care for substance use disorders, including specialized medication management and a supportive path to recovery.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help you stay present and manage stress. Looking for some simple exercises to get started? Check out the Spinal Breathing Exercise on our YouTube channel. 

Set Realistic Goals

While it’s tempting to do everything, tackling your entire to-do list all at once can be overwhelming. Break your goals into smaller, achievable steps. Make sure to celebrate your successes along the way, too!

Limit Screen Time

Screen time is unavoidable in many careers. For many, computers and smartphones have become essential tools for their jobs. However, excessive screen time, especially on social media, can negatively impact mental health. During your downtime, make sure to set boundaries for healthy device use. It can be as simple as turning off notifications, setting a timer to limit usage and keeping your phone or laptop out of the bedroom.

Get Quality Sleep

Prioritize sleep, aiming for seven to nine hours per night. Quality rest is essential for emotional well-being and vital to your physical health. To create a sleep-friendly space, keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet with comfortable bedding.

Express Gratitude

Regularly express gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. This practice can foster a more positive outlook. One way to do this is to keep a daily gratitude journal. You could start your day positively by writing down the things for which you are grateful. Another way to express gratitude is by taking time before bed to note events that brightened your day. Some events you could note in your journal may include witnessing a random act of kindness or seeing your favorite flowers on your daily walk.

Educate Yourself

Learning about mental health can be powerful in understanding these conditions. You can also be part of the movement to reduce stigma and support others who are struggling with these conditions. Our online health conditions pages provide helpful information and resources on common mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression.

 

Nurturing your emotional well-being is valuable to your overall health and happiness. Incorporate these tips into your daily life to prioritize your mental health and contribute to a more emotionally fulfilling existence. Remember, seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, and there’s support available for everyone. Your mental health matters, so make it a priority.

Understanding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial for everyone’s health and well-being. These conditions can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of their background or lifestyle. Our goal is to empower you with information that helps you take control of your sexual health and to destigmatize STIs. Regular STI testing is an essential part of maintaining health and wellness.

Male couple smiling and being affectionate with each other

Why STI Testing Matters

Regular STI testing is a critical component of maintaining your health. Many STIs are asymptomatic, showing no signs or symptoms. Without testing, you might not detect these infections, which could lead to more severe health issues. Regular testing is the best way to catch these infections early and start treatment.

Treatment Options

Fortunately, most STIs are treatable. Treatments range from antibiotics for bacterial infections to management strategies for chronic conditions. Early detection through regular testing is crucial. Treating STIs early helps you avoid many long-term health complications.

Female couple laughing and smiling at each other

Breaking Down the Stigma

The stigma surrounding STI testing and treatment is a major barrier. It’s time to change the narrative around STIs. They do not reflect one’s morality or character; they are health issues requiring medical attention. When diagnosing and treating STIs, we believe providers should approach these conditions with empathy and understanding.

Empowerment Through Education

Being informed is your first line of defense against STIs. Understanding how STIs are transmitted, recognizing the importance of regular testing, and knowing the available treatment options enables you to make informed decisions about your health. Education is a powerful tool for preventing STIs and reducing the stigma associated with them.

Taking Action with STI Testing

If you are sexually active, integrate STI testing into your regular health routine. Engage in open conversations with your health care provider and sexual partners about STI testing to create a supportive environment for everyone. Remember, seeking help and receiving treatment is a sign of taking responsibility for your health, not a cause for shame. We encourage you to view sexual health as a vital part of your overall well-being. Actively managing your sexual health is a decisive step towards a healthier life.

Ready to take the next step? Contact your Primary Care Provider about STI testing. An appointment may not be required, so call your primary care clinic today.