These habits cost us ALL more in our insurance and taxes.
Poor diet ➡️ Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity
- Change: Reduce intake of processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. Prioritize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Known harm: Contributes to over 647,000 deaths annually from heart disease in the U.S.
- Economic cost: Estimated at $50 billion annually in healthcare costs
Smoking ➡️ Lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disease
- Change: Quit smoking entirely and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Seek support through cessation programs or nicotine replacement therapies.
- Known harm: Causes over 480,000 deaths annually, including secondhand smoke-related deaths.
- Economic cost: Estimated at $600 billion annually, including healthcare spending and lost productivity.vity.
Sedentary lifestyle ➡️ Obesity, heart disease, diabetes
- Change: Incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity (like brisk walking) into your week. Even small changes like standing instead of sitting can help.
- Known harm: Linked to 11% of premature deaths globally.
Excessive alcohol consumption ➡️ Liver disease, multiple cancers
- Change: Limit alcohol intake to recommended levels (e.g., up to one drink per day for women and two for men). Eliminate if possible to eliminate all risks from this known addictive, cancerous, depressant carcinogen.
- Known harm: Responsible for approximately 178,000 deaths annually.
- Economic cost: Estimated at $249 billion annually.
Excess sugar intake ➡️ Obesity, diabetes, dental diseases
- Change: Cut back on sugary beverages, snacks, and desserts. Opt for water or unsweetened drinks and healthier snack options.
- Known harm: Contributes to 34,000 deaths annually from diabetes and heart disease.
- Economic cost: Estimated at $50 billion annually.
Poor mental health/stress management ➡️ Mental disorders, hypertension
- Change: Practice stress-relief techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise. Seek help from mental health professionals when needed.
- Known harm: Linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Inadequate sleep ➡️ Obesity, diabetes, mental health disorders
- Change: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a consistent sleep routine and limit screen time before bed.
- Known harm: Associated with 7% increased mortality risk.
- Economic cost: Estimated at $411 billion annually.
Excessive screen time ➡️ Mental health issues, poor physical health
- Change: Set limits on recreational screen time and prioritize offline activities like reading, hobbies, or outdoor play.
- Known harm: Linked to 27% increased risk of depression in teens.
- Economic cost: Estimated at $151 billion annually.
Poor oral hygiene ➡️ Dental diseases, potential links to heart disease
- Change: Brush and floss daily, and schedule regular dental check-ups. Reduce intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
- Known harm: Contributes to $124 billion in annual healthcare costs.
Lack of regular health check-ups ➡️ Late detection of diseases
- Change: Stay proactive by attending regular medical check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations based on your age and risk factors.
- Known harm: Leads to delayed treatment and increased mortality rates.
- Economic cost: Chronic diseases, often detected late, cost the U.S. $3.7 trillion annually, including lost productivity.
STUDENTS - Early Stage Thought Shift Benefits
Proactive, positive habit messaging campaigns offer a powerful preventative tool. By promoting mental wellness, responsible choices, and effective coping strategies, these campaigns can effectively reduce risky behaviors in high-stress environments. Such messaging empowers young people to build resilience and better manage academic pressures, potentially decreasing alcohol misuse and related health emergencies.
Implementing these campaigns can significantly reduce the burden on campus health services, minimize disciplinary cases, and foster a healthier, more supportive environment for students. (SAMHSA, CDC) #thoughtshiftorg SAMHSA CDC #thoughtshiftorg
UNDER PRIVILIGED - Create a Thought Shift, Creates a Community Shift
Habit-focused, community-centered messaging campaigns can effectively address underlying stressors by promoting mental well-being, resilience, and accessible resources for healthy coping mechanisms.
Tailored campaigns can help mitigate substance misuse in these communities by normalizing mental health support, encouraging positive lifestyle choices, and raising awareness about the broader impact of substance misuse on community health.
This preventative approach can reduce the strain on public health systems, lower crime rates, and empower individuals within these communities to pursue healthier, more stable lives.
Sober World HCUP-US #thoughtshiftorg
WOMEN - Empowering Women with a Thought Shift
Habit-focused messaging campaigns can be particularly impactful for women by countering harmful alcohol-related marketing with positive, empowering narratives that prioritize health and resilience. Messaging that promotes self-care, stress management, and community support can provide women with healthier strategies for navigating societal pressures, reducing their reliance on alcohol as a coping mechanism.
This shift could lead to fewer alcohol-related health conditions, improved safety, and a decline in incidents requiring social services for families impacted by substance misuse. Ultimately, such campaigns can play a critical role in creating safer, healthier environments that protect and empower women. Sober World SAMHSA NIAA #thoughtshiftorg
VETERANS - Supportive Messaging with Thought Shift
Positive, empowering messaging can be a powerful tool in counteracting the mental health challenges veterans face. A consistent stream of positive reinforcement that encourages self-compassion, connection, and resilience can improve veterans' self-talk and reinforce a sense of purpose after their service. This supportive messaging can help shift focus toward individual strengths, remind veterans of their personal accomplishments, and help them establish new, fulfilling civilian roles that utilize their unique skills and experiences.
Engaging veterans in community-focused campaigns that promote wellness and stress management can also foster camaraderie and purpose. Positive messaging, combined with accessible mental health support and peer networks, can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and cultivate a supportive environment. This approach not only builds resilience but also reinforces veterans' sense of belonging and value, potentially decreasing risks of depression and suicidal thoughts.
American Psychological Association CDC National Institute on Drug Abuse #thoughtshiftorg
Powerful and Free
BLISS is your friendly series of daily reminders designed to help you prioritize self-improvement and nurture your well-being. We’re here to cheer you on during this transformative journey with our uplifting 'nudge' messages. Let’s make each day a step toward becoming the best version of yourself!