1 Journey To Wellness: Delta’s Wake Up Call 2009 Regional Conferences Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

2 Workshops Objectives By the end of this session, workshop participants will be able to: –Distinguish the difference between healthy and unhealthy behaviors. –Develop a personal self preservation plan to initiate healthy living. –Learn best practice strategies for health and wellness initiatives from chapters in your region.

3 “Why are We Sleeping?” Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of Women. HIV infection is the leading cause of death of Black Women ages Seventy eight percent (78%) of Black Women are overweight and 51% are obese. Over 1/5 of the Black population suffers from a diagnosable mental disorder. Only 1 in 3 receive treatment.

4 Take the First Step: Lose to Win! Family Healthy Lifestyle and Nutrition Challenge

5 Health and Wellness True or False?? The BMI chart takes in consideration all ethnic backgrounds and all body types? T/F Muscle weighs more than fat. T/F If my BMI is 30 or higher I am obese. T/F I must stop eating to lose weight. T/F

6 Lose to Win Healthy Lifestyle Weight & Nutrition Challenge Uniquely positioned to impact not only our own well being, but the well-being of our families and the communities we serve. Include a family member, friend or community member in your weight management challenge to serve as your “buddy”.

7 Strategies for Your Journey Increase Physical Activity – Public Health Recommendation – 2 ½ hours per week of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity – 1 hour and 15 minutes per week of vigorous physical activity Access Nutritious Foods and Maintain Healthy Eating Habits –Fruits and Vegetables –Lean cut meats: chicken, fish, turkey –Healthy Snacks (i.e. fruits, vegetables, yogurt, granola) Identify Support – for exercise, reducing stress (mental health specialist)

8 Take the Second Step: “Catching, Coping and Conquering”

9 Get the Facts About Chronic Diseases Type II Diabetes only affects adults? T/F African American women die at a higher than White women from Breast Cancer. T/F High blood pressure, stroke and heart attacks are forms of cardiovascular disease. T/F 3.7 million or 14.7% of Blacks ages 30 years or older have diabetes. T/F Chronic gum disease has been associated with cardiovascular disease. T/F

10 “Catching, Coping and Conquering” Catching - Encourage screening and healthy lifestyles for prevention of chronic health diseases. Coping - Raise awareness about treatment options, clinical trials, and provide support for those diagnosed with chronic disease Conquering – Support chronic disease research disproportionately affecting Blacks in the United States.

11 Strategies for Your Journey Host activities corresponding with respective health awareness month. –February: Heart Health Month –October: Breast Cancer Month –November: Diabetes Awareness Month –December 1: World AIDS Day Establish local partnerships with health departments, hospitals and local civic organizations to host community forums.

12 Take the Final Step: My Cry in the Dark

13 Mental Health True or False? Over 50,000 Americans are affected by mental health issues. T/F Alcoholism has no effect on families or children. T/F Depression is regularly diagnosed in African American families. T/F Suicide is the third leading cause of death in teens. T/F Phobia is a type of Anxiety. T/F

14 Coping with Mental Health Host community forums and workshops onHost community forums and workshops on the affects of untreated mental health issues and the impact on the entire family. May- Mental health Awareness Month Partner with local school district, mental health centers, recreation centers, local churches, and other community organizations Identify mental health professionals in your community to offer their expertise during your awareness activities. (i.e. social workers, counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists) Integrate mental health awareness in current chapter programs (i.e. Delta Academy and Delta GEMS and youth centered initiatives) Contact local, regional and national organizations that may provide resources and other in-kind donations (brochures, pamphlets, etc.) 14

15 Take Home Message Its never too late to begin your journey toward total wellness. Live your best life. Take your first steps... TODAY! Start with the Journey to Wellness Passport as a guide or reminder

Sharing Best Practices 16 Form Partnerships Within Delta (Alumnae – Alumnae, Alumnae – Collegiate) With Businesses With Government With Media With Healthcare Providers/Organizations Seek Funding