Idaho Health Programs – THINK SPRING
As warmer weather and longer days are upon us, now is a great time to reach out for your own period of renewal with a recommitment to healthy living. Whether it's getting more exercise, finally getting serious about quitting smoking, making sure you get better rest or setting a goal to drink two extra glasses of water each day, find the goal that is right for you. Having appropriate medical, dental and mental health care available is something ID-AHEC strongly believes in. However, a big part of how healthy the population of Idaho will be starts with our individual choices in attitude, relationship, diet and exercise. Many communities have programs to help. Here are some links to information to get you started.
If you know of a particular health promotion activity in your community, let us know so we can add it to our list of resources.
(photo of wild flower in the Owyhees taken by Kathy Lindsey)
Oral Health: Idaho Oral Health Program
The goal of the Idaho Oral Health Program is to help children avoid tooth decay by increasing early preventive care. The Oral Health program is focused on children ages birth to 12 years, their families and care providers. The program works with the seven health districts to improve the oral health of children throughout Idaho. Contact a health district in your area to learn about the dental services they provide. Idaho Oral Health Acton Plan 2010-2015
Smoking cessation: Idaho Quit Net
Free online support to help you kick the smoking habit. Project Filter http://www.projectfilter.org/ Project Filter works to educate the public about the resources available to help individuals quit using tobacco.
Idaho Weight Losers! People in Idaho wanting to lose weight helping others and offering encouragement, accountability, and motivation in a safe atmosphere.
Healthy Eating, Active Living (HEAL) Idaho
The goal of the HEAL framework includes creating an environment where all Idahoans value and have access to healthy food options as well as opportunities to be physically active to improve their health and well being.
Living Well in Idaho
The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP), known as "Living Well in Idaho," is an educational program offered currently in five local public health districts in Idaho.
OTHER ideas –
Grow a garden or visit your local farmer's market for fresh, locally grown foods.
Turn off the TV, get away from the computer and enjoy the outdoors. Explore parks, trail or wilderness areas near where you live. Idaho has much to offer! Idaho State Parks and National Parks.
Organize a neighborhood pot luck or participate in a community clean up day. Or you may want to take family or friends to one of the many Festivals held all over Idaho. Building and maintaining positive relationships through fun activities can contribute to better health.
