As we step into National Wellness Awareness Month, I want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of taking care of yourselves. In the midst of our busy lives, it's easy to prioritize work, obligations, and daily stresses over our own well-being. However, I encourage each of you to pause and reflect on your own self-care and wellness.
Life's demands, from work deadlines to family responsibilities, can often cloud our focus on our own health. But research consistently shows that practicing self-care is not just beneficial—it's essential. It's a powerful tool to manage stress, enhance happiness, and improve overall quality of life.
National Wellness Month was established with a simple yet profound idea: To achieve our goals, whether in our careers, families, education, or personal growth, we must also prioritize our own well-being. Our physical, mental, and emotional health is the foundation on which we build success.
At Opus EHR, we understand the significance of wellness, especially in the realm of behavioral health. As CEO, I'm committed to ensuring that we not only provide top-notch software solutions but also support the mental health professionals who use them. Your well-being directly impacts the care you provide to your clients, making your self-care a vital part of the equation.
During this month, I encourage each of you to make time for self-care. Whether it's indulging in a spa day, taking a peaceful nature walk, savoring a nourishing meal, engaging in regular exercise, or simply finding moments of mindfulness amidst the hustle, prioritize your mental health.
Remember, your well-being is not a luxury; it's a necessity. By cultivating wholesome habits and dedicating time to self-care, you'll find yourself better equipped to face challenges, provide exceptional care to your clients, and ultimately lead a happier and healthier life.
Thank you for your dedication to your clients and patients, and for the incredible work you do every day. Let's make this month a reminder to prioritize our wellness as we continue to make a positive impact on those we serve.
Wishing you all a rejuvenating and fulfilling National Wellness Awareness Month.
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Recognizing Amy Johnston, the remarkable Clinical Director of Urban Wellness
Amy Johnston, a licensed clinical social worker, brings a wealth of experience in mental health, trauma, and burnout management to her role. With unwavering dedication, she fosters a culture of thriving, even in the most challenging circumstances. Amy collaborates with courageous leaders, crafting an environment of growth and authenticity that benefits both clients and practitioners.
In addition to her role at Urban Wellness, Amy is a workplace well-being consultant for UW Grows—a vital support pathway for LPCs and LSWs. Her work is focused on creating a space where employees collectively slow down, breathe, and attune to their minds, work, and lives. Through well-being initiatives, ongoing education, and a commitment to mental health at work, Amy spearheads an impactful program.
UWGrows amplifies clinicians' abilities to effectively support clients, nurture therapeutic relationships, and navigate the complexities of the profession. This program nurtures the growth of provisionally licensed clinicians at UW, from their earliest days to the attainment of their clinical licenses. The program's pillars of (Self)Compassion, Collaboration, and Core Skills align with anti-racist, anti-oppressive practices, fostering continuous learning, growth, and actionable change.
Amy's journey includes studies at Northwestern University and The University of Chicago, followed by a move to Dublin, Ireland, where her mental health career began. From supporting parents and staff in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Lurie Children's Hospital to joining Urban Wellness in 2019, Amy's journey has been characterized by dedication and expertise. She is also a certified perinatal mental health specialist.
At the heart of her practice is the ability to identify client's strengths and collectively build resilience. Recently, Amy contributed her insights as a panelist in the "Navigating Therapy Post-Pandemic: Overcoming Staff Shortage" webinar. Her wisdom shines through in her contributions to this important conversation.
Join us in celebrating Amy's exceptional contributions to the field of mental health. To hear her thoughts on the webinar's crucial topic, register for the recording here.
Congratulations, Amy, and thank you for your outstanding dedication to the well-being of both clients and fellow clinicians! 🌟
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Opus EHR offers 24/7/365 LIVE Customer Support
At Opus, we believe that exceptional customer support is the cornerstone of a seamless user experience. That's why we've gone the extra mile to provide you with 24/7/365 LIVE customer support because your needs don't adhere to regular business hours.
We understand that technology hiccups can happen at any time, and waiting for assistance can be frustrating. With Opus EHR, you don't have to worry about waiting on hold or submitting a ticket and hoping for a timely response. Our live agents are ready to assist you around the clock, every single day of the year.
Our commitment to your convenience is reflected in our user-centric approach. When you encounter a question or an issue, our live agent support is just a click away. You can easily connect with us, day or night, through a simple zoom button on the system. No more stress about when to call or whether your ticket will be seen – we're here for you whenever you need us.
We're proud to offer a concierge-style customer service experience that goes beyond traditional support models. Our system is designed with your time and efficiency in mind. Of course, if you prefer submitting a support ticket, that option is available too.
Opus EHR was created by experts who have deep roots in the treatment center industry. We understand the value of impeccable client/patient care, and we extend that same value to our customer support. Your success is our success, and we're committed to helping you navigate our software smoothly and effectively.
Ready to experience unparalleled customer support? visiting our website or get in touch with our team today to learn more about how Opus EHR can elevate your practice.
Self Care Matters
Practicing self-care through healthy habits can greatly contribute to your overall well-being. Here are some habits, including the ones you mentioned, that you can apply for self-care:
- Mindful Breathing: Set aside a few minutes each day to practice deep and mindful breathing. This simple exercise can reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
- Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with balanced and nutritious meals. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your diet.
- Digital Detox: Dedicate some time each day to disconnect from screens. Put away your devices and engage in activities that don't involve technology.
- Journaling: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a journal. This can help you process emotions and gain clarity on your thoughts.
- Mindfulness Meditation: Practice mindfulness meditation to stay present and reduce anxiety. Focus on your breath, bodily sensations, and the environment around you.
- Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when you need to. Setting healthy boundaries can prevent burnout and help you prioritize your well-being.
- Quality Time with Loved Ones: Spend time with family and friends who uplift and support you. Meaningful connections are essential for mental and emotional well-being.
- Unplug Before Bed: Create a calming bedtime routine by avoiding screens an hour before sleep. Engage in relaxing activities like reading or taking a warm bath.
- Gratitude Journaling: Write down things you're grateful for each day. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective.
- Learn to Delegate: Don't hesitate to delegate tasks at work or home. Sharing responsibilities can reduce stress and give you more time for self-care.
- Hobbies and Interests: Pursue hobbies that bring you joy and fulfillment. Whether it's playing a musical instrument, gardening, or crafting, engaging in activities you love can boost your mood.
- Positive Affirmations: Practice positive self-talk by repeating affirmations that uplift and motivate you.
- Limit News Consumption: While it's important to stay informed, excessive exposure to negative news can increase stress. Set specific times to catch up on news and avoid constant updates.
- Nature Connection: Spend time in nature to recharge. Whether it's a walk in the park or a hike in the mountains, being outdoors can have a rejuvenating effect.
- Laughter: Engage in activities that make you laugh, whether it's watching a comedy show or spending time with funny friends.
Remember, self-care is about finding what works best for you and making it a consistent part of your routine. Small, intentional actions can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being.
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Workplace Wellness
Promoting workplace wellness is paramount for creating a healthy and thriving work environment. Here's why it's essential to prioritize employee well-being:
Embrace a Self-Care Mindset: Self-care is no longer just a luxury but a necessity. Encourage employees to prioritize sleep, proper nutrition, exercise, stress management, self-compassion, and mindfulness. A healthy, well-cared-for team is more productive and engaged.
Supportive Organizational Culture: Make it known that your organization values well-being. Managers and leaders should visibly practice self-care, setting an example for employees. This fosters an atmosphere where self-care is encouraged and accepted.
Physical Activity Integration: Incorporate physical activity into the workday. Encourage employees to take short walks, engage in walking meetings, and participate in step challenges. This boosts mood, enhances well-being, and improves productivity.
Wellness-Driven Workspace: Create a physical workspace that reflects well-being priorities. Incorporate collaboration spaces, natural lighting, greenery, and relaxation areas. These elements promote employee comfort and productivity.
Caregiving Support: Acknowledge the impact of caregiving responsibilities on stress levels. Provide onsite childcare, stipends, and leave options to support employees in balancing work and caregiving.
Financial Wellness Programs: Implement programs that assist with student loans, monthly budgeting, and savings. Alternative pay cycles can alleviate financial stress.
Hydration Promotion: Encourage water consumption by providing accessible water coolers and hosting hydration challenges. Hydration is essential for optimal physical and mental functioning.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Promote meditation to relax the mind and reduce stress. Offer discounted meditation app subscriptions and create meditation spaces within the workplace.
Nutritional Focus: Assist employees in maintaining a balanced diet. Provide healthy meal options, meal kit discounts, and educational sessions on meal preparation.
Stretching Breaks: Counteract the effects of prolonged sitting or stress with group stretch breaks. Consider offering wellness classes to enhance well-being.
Disconnect and Set Boundaries: Encourage employees to disconnect from work after hours. Set expectations for responding to emails and highlight the importance of using paid time off.
Gratitude and Positivity: Support the practice of gratitude. Provide gratitude journals or meditation resources, and encourage focusing on positive experiences daily.
Surprise Days Off: Occasionally offer surprise company-wide paid days off to combat burnout and rejuvenate employees.
Tokens of Appreciation: Recognize and appreciate employees with self-care tokens like essential oils, stress balls, or healthy snacks. Recognition enhances engagement and well-being.
Creating a culture of workplace wellness is an investment in your employee's happiness and productivity. By nurturing their well-being, you're fostering a resilient and motivated workforce that will contribute to the success of your organization year-round.
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How to Train Your Mind to Focus on the Positive
In a world that often leans toward negativity, training your mind to focus on the positive can be transformative. It's all too common to let a single negative event overshadow an entire day or week. But did you know that you have the power to reshape your perspective? Social psychologist Alison Ledgerwood's insights shed light on how to navigate this mental terrain and reframe experiences. Here are a few methods to help you shift your focus and embrace a more optimistic mindset:
1. Practice "Gain Framing": The way you describe your experiences can significantly influence how you perceive them. Gain framing involves focusing on what's gained rather than lost. Consider a glass that's half-full versus half-empty. By using gain framing to recount your experiences, you naturally emphasize the positive aspects. When you share these reframed experiences with others, the positivity is reinforced. Learning to rehearse good news and sharing it with those around you can help shape your perspective.
2. Acknowledge One Good Thing: When you're faced with a negative experience, redirect your attention to a positive one. Venting may seem like a solution, but concentrating on something good that happened that day can redirect your brain's focus in a more constructive way. Even if it's challenging at first, jot down moments of gratitude on paper. Research indicates that this simple act can significantly boost happiness and overall well-being.
3. Respond Counterintuitively: How you respond in the moment can make a significant impact on your perspective. Instead of reacting negatively to a rude comment, consider responding with forgiveness. When met with a grumpy waitress, leave an extra-large tip. These counterintuitive responses give you the space to reframe your reactions, breaking the cycle of dwelling on negativity and spreading it. By offering kindness and understanding, you can influence how your mind perceives the experience.
4. Embrace Mindful Awareness: Practicing mindfulness involves being fully present and engaged in the current moment. This awareness enables you to recognize when negative thoughts arise and consciously replace them with positive ones. Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help anchor you in the present, allowing you to detach from negativity and cultivate a more positive perspective.
5. Surround Yourself with Positivity: Surrounding yourself with positive influences can significantly impact your mindset. Engage in conversations that uplift and inspire you. Seek out activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Building a supportive network and immersing yourself in positivity can naturally steer your focus toward the brighter aspects of life.
Training your mind to focus on the positive is a journey that requires effort and consistency. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can gradually reshape your perspective and cultivate a more optimistic outlook. Remember, your mind is a powerful tool that you can harness to create a brighter and more positive reality.
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Here at Opus, we understand how much treatment providers impact many lives to recovery and want to honor Clinical Heroes in the Addiction and Behavioral Health Treatment Industry.
Join us in recognizing deserving clinical professionals' hard work and dedication by featuring them in the Opus Spark Newsletter, where they will shine in the spotlight who have gone above and beyond to support patient recovery and therapy.
Nominate a Hero here!
Do you know a clinician who deserves recognition for their outstanding work? Nominate them by completing our simple nomination form.
Winner Announcement
Once a month, our leadership team will select a unique submission to receive a $100 VISA gift card and feature the winner in our newsletter's "Clinician of the Month" section.
What is Opus Spark Newsletter
Monthly awareness information, updates on technology innovations, industry news, and recognizing clinical heroes.
Each recipient will be notified by email and receive their gift card electronically. Let's honor our clinical heroes and show our appreciation for the important work they do.
NOMINATE DESERVING CLINICIAN HERE!
Supporting Your Wellness Journey with Opus EHR
As we conclude this Wellness Month, we want to emphasize that your well-being is at the heart of everything we do. At Opus EHR, we understand that achieving and maintaining good mental health is essential for a fulfilling and productive life. We're committed to supporting both clinicians and patients on their wellness journeys.
Just as you prioritize your mental health, we prioritize your practice's operational well-being. Our comprehensive software solutions are designed to streamline and enhance your practice operations. From transparent pricing and efficient system speed to customer-centric support, Opus EHR is here to make your practice management as smooth as possible.
Your dedication to providing quality care aligns with our mission. We're proud to offer a fully integrated EHR system that not only meets the needs of clinicians but also ensures patient-centric care. We believe that by providing you with the tools and support you need, you can focus on what truly matters: improving the well-being of your patients.
As we move forward, let's continue to champion mental health and wellness. It's our collective responsibility to break down barriers and create an environment where seeking mental health care is accessible and normalized. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Opus EHR stands beside you, ready to support your practice's success and contribute to a healthier society.
If you're a Behavioral Health Treatment Provider seeking efficient and reliable solutions for your practice, don't hesitate to explore our offerings at www.opusehr.com. Together, let's advance towards a healthier, more balanced world for everyone.
