MO Benefits - October

Taking care of yourself means more than just eating right and exercising—it’s about being proactive with your health. Annual screenings are a critical component to staying ahead of potential health issues. Health screenings may catch things early when they are more treatable. Whether you’re 18 or 65, these routine checks can make all the difference in maintaining a vibrant and active life. From blood pressure monitoring to cancer screenings, knowing the tests that are recommended for your age range can empower you to take control of your health. After all, the best care is preventive care! So, take a moment to review the health check recommendations below. Your future self will thank you!

Meet Kim, who joined the State earlier this year and has quickly found a home within the State of Missouri. Kim is especially grateful for the benefits provided through her job, particularly the coverage for her monthly migraine injections through Express Scripts. “I am forever grateful for the excellent coverage for my monthly migraine injections. The cash price is nearly $1,000 per injection, and being without them for three months between jobs was incredibly tough. Getting back on the injections has changed my life.” For Kim, the people she works with are what she values most, “Everyone I have met in person, by phone, or digitally has been kind. The team I work with is not just a group of colleagues, but a family. I feel appreciated, supported, valued, and genuinely welcome.” This sense of belonging fuels her mission to advance workforce diversity, accessibility, inclusion, and belonging, making her role even more meaningful.

Interested in sharing your benefits story with the State of Missouri?
Reach out via email at MOBenefits@oa.mo.gov.

Understand Your Anxiety and Stay Informed, Not Overloaded

Recognizing that your anxiety is a natural response to uncertainty can be the first step toward managing it. Accept that some level of worry about health is normal, but excessive concern may need to be addressed.

While it’s important to stay informed about health matters, constantly checking medical websites or obsessively seeking reassurance can increase anxiety. Set specific times for health information updates and avoid excessive browsing.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine. These practices can help reduce anxiety by bringing your focus to the present moment.

Try a simple breathing exercise. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take a slow, deep breath in through your nose. Hold your breath for a count of four, then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this cycle for a few minutes, focusing solely on your breath.

Limit Reassurance-Seeking and Set Realistic Goals

Repeatedly seeking reassurance from doctors, family, or friends can perpetuate health anxiety. Trust in the professional advice you receive and avoid repeatedly asking for reassurance.

Set small, achievable goals for managing your health anxiety. Celebrate your progress and be patient with yourself as you work towards a healthier mindset.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Engage in regular physical activity, eat a balanced diet, and get sufficient sleep. A healthy body can contribute to a healthier mind, reducing overall anxiety levels.

Seek Professional Help

If health anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life, consider seeking support from a mental health professional.

State employees eligible for MCHCP medical coverage and members of their household may use the SELF program 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The SELF program offers behavioral health counseling services to help with everyday issues such as stress, relationships, parenting, grief and loss, and substance use. Trained staff will listen to your concerns and refer you to a local counselor for in-person help.

You can get up to ten counseling sessions per problem, per year, per person. There is no limit on the number of different problems. Additional counseling sessions may be covered by an MCHCP medical plan. Contact MCHCP Member Services at
800-487-0771 for instruction on how to access SELF services.

Stay Connected and Engage in Positive Activities

Share your feelings with trusted friends or family members. Sometimes, talking about your worries can provide relief and offer a different perspective.

Distract yourself from health worries by engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy. Keeping busy with positive and fulfilling activities can reduce the time spent focusing on anxieties.