Tips to Protect Your Health in the Winter

The winter months can be great for skiing, making a cup of hot chocolate or getting into a snowball fight. But the cold air, darker days and viral infections also bring on new challenges for your wellbeing. Before you let the sniffles or winter blues kick in, here are our tips for staying happy and healthy.  

Dealing with Dry Skin 

The cold, dry winter air can be rough on your skin! You might notice chapped lips or dry, itchy skin. Before you get scratching, know that relief is possible. Here are some tips: 

• Be mindful of your hot showers. The hot water can dry out your skin, causing moisture loss. Try to use lukewarm water instead. After your shower, don’t forget to use thick creams or petroleum to trap the moisture on your skin!  
  
  
• Protect your skin outside. If you live in a cold climate, don't forget to grab your gloves on the way out the door. This will protect your skin and keep you warm.
  
  
• Use a humidifier. The cold air can bring lower humidity. You can put moisture back into the air by using a humidifier. Make sure to place it in a room where you spend the most time. You can also try other methods like showering with the door open and hanging your clothes to dry inside.  

Supporting Your Immune System  

Your immune system is a vital part of your body that keeps you healthy! It helps you fight off infections when they happen. To support your immune system, you should:  

• Eat a balanced diet. Eating a variety of foods (including plenty of fruits high in vitamin C, vegetables and whole grains) is a good place to start.  

   

• Get enough sleep. Most people need between 6-8 hours of sleep per night. If you're finding it hard to get enough quality sleep, try creating a consistent sleep schedule and keeping your room quiet and dark before sleep. 

   

• Stay active when you’re feeling good. It’s all about balance! When you’re feeling healthy, staying active and listening to your body is great. But when you’re not feeling well, it’s time to rest up so your body can use its energy to fight off infections.  

Getting through Your Winter Blues 

The colder temperatures and darker days can affect your mental health. You might find it harder to stick to your routines or find motivation. If you’re dealing with the winter blues, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, know that you’re not alone! Talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling. Together, you can make a plan to get your mental health back on track.  

If your employer provides you with First Stop Health Virtual Counseling, our counselors are available to provide you with confidential support. After requesting a visit, a counselor will call you to learn about what you’re going through (such as depression, anxiety, or relationship concerns). Together, you’ll schedule a visit with a counselor who can address your specific needs.   

What should I do if I feel sick? 

When you’re not feeling well, the last thing you want to do is leave the house to get treated. With First Stop Health Telemedicine, you have access to 24/7 care from the comfort of home! Just request a visit in a few taps to get connected with a board-certified doctor.  

Care you will love

If your school or employer provides you with First Stop Health Telemedicine, our doctors are here to provide care you will love.