#3: Preventive Practices

According to the "Rate Your Preventive Practices," I scored an 8/10.
1. Do I eat a healthy balanced diet: not very well... and not very often. I try to make sure I get enough servings of all the food groups per day, however, with my schedule and the things my family agrees to eat I do not always succeed. I could improve this by introducing more fresh fruits and vegetables to my family; give myself enough time to prepare and cook a meal by planning ahead; or, if my family refuses to increase their consumption of fruits and veggies, then I can prepare enough just for myself. (My husband is not a big veggie lover).

2. I participate in moderate-intensity exercise at least 4 times per week.

3. Do I get enough sleep: no. I frequently feel tired during the day. In order for me to not feel tired, I would have to go to bed at 2100 daily, however, that would eat into my prime homework completing time. I have been actively employing more efficient uses of my time, but, as my mom frequently points out to me, I sometimes bite off more than I can chew comfortably.

4. I have never smoked or used any drugs.

5. I do not consume alcohol... well, I have probably consumed alcohol on fewer occasions than I could count on one hand.

6. I am sexually active in a mutually monogamous relationship. My husband has been my only sexual partner.

7. I employ stress reducing methods. This is essential for me to even make it through a day at work on occasion. I work at a psychiatric hospital which can be very emotionally draining. I work full time, take 10 hours worth of classes, have a 19 month old, a husband, and a baby on the way, and we just moved back to TX but to a part where we have no family. I recently began taking ballet classes again, which I love, once a week. I employ deep breathing exercises. I read my Bible. I pray. I try to distract myself or clear my mind and stop worrying about things out of my control. I try to use my time appropriately. I spend time with my family, remembering they are above my work and school as a priority.

8. I practice safe behaviors.

9. I employ nonviolent methods of conflict resolution. If I am too angry to talk, I remove myself from the situation, employ a stress reducing method, go for a walk, or take a shower. I then come back to the situation to address the problem in a calm and respectful manner. Sometimes I write a letter to the person I am having a conflict with. This helps especially if it is over a very sensitive, emotional subject where I would have difficulty maintaining composure if face to face.

10. I receive routine preventive care from a HCP.