Stress Awareness Month is an annual designation observed in April. Have you ever been in a situation that was a little (or a lot) overwhelming, you had deadlines approaching and a mile-long to-do list, and you were just in way over your head?! Well, you're definitely not alone. Everyone feels stressed from time to time, especially as we get older and the responsibilities really pile onto our plate. The thing about stress is, a little bit of it isn't necessarily a bad thing, but too much of it can be detrimental to our emotional and physical health. Learning to find a healthy balance is the best way to live a productive, happy life.
National Donate Life Awareness Month in April recognizes the impact of organ donation. The month is dedicated not only to improving support to those desperately waiting for life-saving donations but honors those who agreed to be donors.
Organ donation takes many forms, and there are teams of people involved to make donation happen. A single donation requires a coordinated effort from family members supporting both donors and recipients to a broad network of advocates and medical professionals and specialists.
Health Plan Options for College Students
BCBSTX Away From Home Care Program
Are you or your dependents temporarily living outside of Texas? With the BCBSTX Away From Home Care Program, eligible members can access in-network care through Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO plan in their temporary location.
This program is ideal for:
✔ College students living in another state
✔ Long-term travelers or temporary relocations for work
✔ Families with children staying with relatives out of state
With Away From Home Care, you get access to doctors, hospitals, and urgent care facilities—just like you would at home!
To see if you qualify or to enroll, contact BCBSTX Customer Service at 1-888-697-0683.
5 Ways You Can Protect Your Colon Health
Keep Your Brain and Body Healthy by MINDing What You Eat
Healthy eating doesn’t need to be hard. You don’t have to spend a lot of time tracking your daily calories or buy special diet products. Just find a healthy approach to what you eat. One easy-to-follow eating plan — the MIND diet — steers you toward delicious, simple, wholesome foods. It can help your brain, heart and gut health. Read more →
Did you know one out of every 2 adults in the United States is affected by back, joint, or muscle pain?* Here’s how you can be the one who isn’t.
Try Hinge Health. Get virtual physical therapy and more to help:
Recover from an injury
Relieve pelvic pain and discomfort
Reduce everyday joint and muscle aches
Improve your balance, strength, and mobility
And there’s no cost to you! Your Hinge Health benefit is covered by Alief ISD.
Start your program today, and get a yoga mat on Hinge Health.**
Employees and dependents 18+ enrolled in a Alief ISD medical plan are eligible.
*Bone and Joint Initiative, The Hidden Impact of Musculoskeletal Disorders on Americans, 2018.
**Eligibility to receive a yoga mat is based on the program in which you are placed and completion of a qualifying number of exercise therapy sessions.
Recipe of the Month
Thai Turmeric Coconut Braised Chicken Meatballs
1 lb. Ground Chicken
1 Egg
1/3 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
3 tbsp Ginger Root, minced
3 tsp Garlic Cloves, minced
1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
1 1/2 tsp Lime Juice
1/2 tsp Lime Zest
2 tbsp Coconut Milk
1/2 tsp Turmeric, ground
1/2 tsp Granulated Sugar
3/4 tsp Thai Red Chili Pepper, sliced
1 tbsp Thai Basil, chopped
Directions:
In a bowl, mix ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, 1 TBSP ginger, 1 1/2 tsp garlic, and salt until evenly distributed.
Divide into 1 TBSP portions (~1-1.5 oz. raw weight each) and roll into round meatballs.
In a shallow pot, combine chicken broth, lime juice, lime zest, coconut milk, remaining ginger, remaining garlic, turmeric, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Carefully add meatballs into simmering broth, leaving space in between each meatball. Gently simmer until meatballs are cooked through and tender, ~30-45 minutes.
Stir in Thai chilis and Thai basil before serving.
Serving Size:
4 meatballs with 1/2 cup broth
Nutritional Information:
Per serving: Calories 230, 13 g fat, 4.5 g saturated fat, 300 mg sodium, 7 g carbohydrates, 2 g sugar, 0 g fiber, 22 g protein
Recipe Source:
Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality Group
Inflation Implication Webinar
April is the perfect time to focus on your overall well-being—physically, mentally, and financially. This month, we’re spotlighting preventive healthcare, mental wellness, financial literacy, and ways to cultivate happiness. Let’s take small steps toward a healthier and happier you!
1. Medical & Dental Health: Prevention is Key
Taking care of your health now can prevent bigger issues later. Use this month to check in on your medical and dental wellness:
🩺 Schedule Your Annual Checkup – Preventive care helps catch potential health issues early.
🦷 Don’t Skip Your Dental Visit – Gum health is linked to heart health! Aim for a cleaning every six months.
👓 Check Your Vision – If you’re straining to see the board or screens, it’s time for an eye exam.
💉 Stay Up to Date on Vaccines – Flu, COVID-19, and tetanus shots help keep you and your students healthy.
Tip: The BCBS plans cover preventive visits at no cost! Check with your provider to schedule your next appointment.
2. Mental Health: Managing Stress & Avoiding Burnout
As the school year progresses, stress can build up. Protect your mental well-being with these strategies:
🧘 Practice Deep Breathing – Take five deep breaths in moments of stress.
📅 Set Work-Life Boundaries – It’s okay to log off and take time for yourself after school hours.
💙 Use Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) – Many districts offer free counseling or mental health resources.
📝 Write it Out – Journaling helps process emotions and reduces stress.
3. Financial Literacy: Spring Clean Your Finances
April is Financial Literacy Month, making it the perfect time to organize your money and plan for a secure future.
💵 Review Your Retirement Plan – Make sure you’re contributing enough to your 403(b) or pension plan.
📊 Cut Unnecessary Expenses – Check your subscriptions and spending habits.
📚 Learn About Loan Forgiveness – Public school employees may qualify for student loan forgiveness programs.
🛑 Avoid Impulse Spending – Use the 24-hour rule before making big purchases.
Tip: Free Resource: Visit www.consumerfinance.gov for budgeting tools and financial education.
4. Action for Happiness: “Active April” Challenge
Physical activity improves mood, reduces stress, and boosts energy! This month, challenge yourself with these small, daily actions:
✔️ April 3: Take a 10-minute walk outside.
✔️ April 10: Try a new stretch or yoga pose.
✔️ April 17: Drink an extra glass of water today.
✔️ April 24: Dance to your favorite song for a quick mood boost!
You Deserve to Thrive!
Your health, happiness, and financial well-being are essential—not just for your students but for yourself. Take time to prioritize you this month!
Stay well, stay strong, and keep making a difference.
💡 Have a wellness tip or story to share? Email us at benefits@aliefisd.net.
