It’s important to regularly check in with ourselves - to see how we’re doing in specific areas of health and wellness. Otherwise, small issues can develop into more serious health concerns over time. While self-screenings aren’t a replacement for professional care, they can reveal warning signs early, allowing you to act before things escalate.
These simple self-checks can help you stay proactive about your health, from physical symptoms to emotional well-being.
1. Weight and BMI
Weighing yourself can show trends in your body mass over time, but combining that information with your Body Mass Index (BMI) provides a better picture of your overall health.
Compare your weight and height using a BMI calculator to determine whether you fall into one of the following categories:
- Normal weight
- Underweight
- Overweight
- Obese
Understanding your BMI can help you identify risks related to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
2. Mental Health Check-In
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health, but it's often overlooked.
Take time to check in with yourself regularly:
- Have you been feeling unusually stressed, anxious, or down?
- Are you sleeping more or less than usual?
- Do you feel disconnected or withdrawn from family and friends?
- Have you lost interest in things that used to bring you joy?
These may be signs of stress, anxiety, or depression. If any of these persist for more than a couple of weeks, don’t ignore them. Reach out to a mental health professional, counselor, or your primary care doctor. Mental wellness is an essential part of a healthy life, and support is always available.
3. Check Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no noticeable symptoms. Fortunately, it’s easy to monitor.
Next time you're at the pharmacy, use the automated blood pressure monitor. A normal reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. Elevated or high readings may put you at greater risk for heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
Checking your blood pressure only takes a few minutes and can be lifesaving.
4. Conduct a Skin Self-Exam
Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Most skin cancers can be detected by simply examining your skin regularly.
Look for:
- Rough or scaly patches
- New or changing moles, spots, or bumps
- Sores that bleed or don’t heal
- Any change in the color, size, or shape of existing moles
Do this self-check monthly, and if you notice anything unusual, follow up with a dermatologist promptly.
5. Gum Disease Check
Oral health is closely linked to overall health, and gum disease can increase your risk for conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Signs to watch for include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
Don’t wait for pain to set in. If you spot early signs of gum issues, schedule a dental checkup.
Care New England Can Help
Your health is worth the time it takes to check in with yourself. From mental health support to physical wellness, Care New England is here to help you every step of the way. If you’ve noticed any concerns during your self-checks, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Take care of your body. Take care of your mind. You deserve both.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not serve as medical advice, consultation, or diagnosis. If you have a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical treatment.
