World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Awareness takes place throughout November and this year’s theme is “Family and Diabetes”. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is raising awareness of the impact that diabetes has on the family and support network of those affected. Families and caregivers play an important role in the management, care, prevention,…

E-Cigarettes: Resources to Understand the Risks

An outbreak of severe lung disease among users of electronic cigarettes has recently made headlines across the country. According to the latest report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a total of 805 cases have been reported in 46 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The CDC has…

World Mental Health Day

During October, World Mental Health Day is observed with the objective of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health. Here at GW, we recognize that mental health touches all of us in unique ways, and by sharing resources to provide…

Real Appeal Creates Real Results

Put your hands together for a big round of applause for our GW community participating in Real Appeal! Collectively, our community has lost a total of 945 lbs. since January 1.  That’s countless stories about people feeling better, fitting into old jeans and high-fiving their doctors. You can still join! …

Explore the U.S. This Summer

In the following Forbes article, 14 of the most plugged-in travel experts and influencers give recommendations on places that are on their radars for 2019. Read on for their picks, which range from beach resorts to mountain towns to some up-and-coming cities that might surprise you. Fort Lauderdale, FL Chosen By: Sarah Funk is a travel show…

What’s Happening Around D.C. Over the Winter Break

Have plans over the Winter Break? If you’re looking for fun activities with friends and family look no further. We’ve compiled a list of events taking place between now and January to inspire you to explore, get outdoors and enjoy your much deserved time away. Christmas at Mount Vernon – Through…

Keeping Zen This Holiday Season

During the holiday season, family gatherings, gift buying, decorating and the flurry of other seasonal activities can leave you a bit blue and drained.  Using mindfulness may help you become more resilient by developing inner resources to meet (and conquer!) those life stressors. Most of us have heard that sitting…
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Healthy Eating Tips From Debbie Amster

This year, GW Benefits launched free healthy cooking demos at Foggy Bottom and VSTC campuses for faculty and staff.  Debbie Amster, a culinary coach who studied with Hale Sofia Schatz, international nutrition educator, brings charm, wit and deep knowledge to each class, leaving you inspired to change-up your kitchen routine. …

National Diabetes Month: Tips and Tools to Understanding Diabetes

It’s likely you know someone close to you affected by diabetes.  In the United States, approximately 30 million people are living with diabetes and 84 million with prediabetes.*  This time of year, communities and diabetes organizations team up to raise awareness not only in support of those living with diabetes,…

Take 5: Top Mental Health Apps

Looking to boost your morning mood?  Look no further than your phone. With numerous mental health apps now available at your fingertips, app developers have made it easier than ever to take that 10 minute meditation lunch break or find peace on your next Metro journey.  They even have apps…
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Healthy Aging

September is Healthy Aging Month and the time to get started on better health practices. You’re never too old to add new things to your life becoming a healthier, happier you. No matter what your age, you can stay at your personal best with these tips:   Tip One: Games and Brain…
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Make the Most Out of Your Health Plan and Benefits with Castlight

As you enroll in this year’s health plan, set yourself up for success. With GW medical plan participation, you gain access to Castlight, a free benefit for GW employees and their spouses/domestic partners and adult dependents that will let you experience healthcare in a whole new way. Here are just a…

Gearing up for Open Enrollment

We are officially in Open Enrollment season! Once again, it is time to revisit and consider making changes to our health and welfare benefits. This year’s Open Enrollment period will take place from October 8, 2018, through 8 p.m. EST on October 26, 2018. Most benefits elected during this period…
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Seven Ways to Use Your Health Care FSA Funds

The Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows you to set aside money from your paycheck on a pre-tax basis to pay for eligible out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Funds may be applied towards medical, dental, vision, hearing and prescription drug expenses – for you and your spouse and eligible tax dependents.…
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Comparing the GW Medical Plans

During Open Enrollment, you can make changes to your benefit elections and add or remove eligible dependents, with most changes going into effect on January 1 of the following year. With this year’s Open Enrollment period fast approaching, you may be reevaluating your current medical plan. Keep reading to learn…
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Prorating Annual and Sick Time (Full-Time Staff)

Employees, with the help of their supervisors, are responsible for reporting and managing their paid time off and leave. Take the time to review and understand GW’s paid time off and leave policies, including the concept of accrual rates and the effect of unpaid leave on accruals.   Prorated Accrual…
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Try It: Digital Detox

When planning your next vacation, consider taking a break from the constant flurry of text messages, emails, online shopping and web surfing with a digital detox. In our digital age, it can be difficult to break from our favorite gadgets, but if you find yourself compulsively checking your devices and…
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Five Sun Safety Tips for Summer

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. The risk of skin cancer and other health problems, including cataracts and premature wrinkles, increases with just a few serious sunburns. Protect yourself and your family this summer with these sun-safe tips.…
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Five Tips to Improve Men’s Health

Each June, Men’s Health Month seeks to raise awareness of preventable health issues and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. In line with this vision, we’ve put together five tips to improve men’s health. 1. See your doctor According to the Centers for Disease Control…
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The Risk of “Contagion” After Suicide

Recent reports of several high-profile celebrity suicides could lead to an increase in suicide and suicidal behaviors in the United States. The phenomenon is real, and it’s called suicide contagion. What is known about suicide contagion, and what can be done to prevent it? Systematic scientific investigations on suicide contagion,…