Managing Stress: The Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we continue our conversation about stress. Ongoing stress significantly affects how we feel in both body and mind, leading to physical disease, mental health disorders, and more if left unaddressed. In the second part of our stress series, we're sharing the top feel-good stress busters that work quickly and effectively, with help and support from the Grand Traverse Mental Health Crisis & Access Center team in Traverse City. 

Signs of Stroke & What to Do Next

A stroke, or brain attack, has clear warning signs. Recognizing them quickly can lead to faster treatment and better outcomes. Remember BE FAST to help save a life:

Balance problems
Eyesight changes (blurry or lost vision)
Facial drooping (often one-sided)
Arm numbness
Slowed speech and/or understanding others
Time to call 911!

If your loved one shows signs of stroke, call 911 right away and ask to go to Munson, no matter where you are in Northern Michigan. Our Comprehensive Stroke Center at Munson Medical Center is equipped with advanced technology to quickly locate and remove clots. During a stroke, minutes matter—including time spent in transport downstate. Remember: BE FAST and ask for Munson.

New State-of-the-Art Security at Munson

To enhance safety for our patients and staff, Munson Medical Center recently installed a new security and weapons detection system at the main lobby and ER entrances. The technology uses advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to screen for concealed weapons while distinguishing them from everyday personal items, helping to maintain an efficient, respectful, and welcoming experience.

“We take the safety and security of everyone who enters our hospital seriously,” says Kathy LaRaia, Munson Medical Center's interim president. “With close to 50,000 Emergency Department visits and 15,000 surgeries a year, along with an average daily patient population of 300, creating a safe environment is essential to the care we provide.”

Recent Gift Strengthens Youth Mental Health Support

As part of our ongoing commitment to behavioral health, we recently gifted $10,000 to the Behavioral Health Initiative (BHI) to strengthen youth mental health services in the area. “Munson has a long history of working alongside the Behavioral Health Initiative, and this gift builds on that partnership to expand access, close gaps in care, and better support youth and families across Northern Michigan, says Laura Glenn, Chief Operating Officer for Munson Healthcare.

For a list of mental health supports offered through Munson and community partners, click below.

Committed to Healthy Moms and Babies

"I chose obstetrics nursing because growing up, I listened to my grandma and her friends talk about their experiences caring for laboring and breastfeeding mothers and was drawn to the calling. At age five, I asked her if she would teach me how to deliver babies. Now, as a labor and delivery nurse and certified nurse midwife, I get to share my stories with her.

What I love most about my role is making connections and supporting families during a life-changing experience and empowering them through education and shared decision-making. I come to work knowing that every day I have an opportunity to care for and impact someone—in both big and small ways."

Need a different specialist?

In Case You Missed It...

Reduce Hidden Sources of Everyday Stress

A Simple Way to Eat Well—Without Counting Calories

From First Stick to First Shift: One Nurse’s Early Lessons in Confidence, Care, and Connection

Munson Healthcare Celebrates This Year's Hometown Health Hero

Munson Consolidates Urgent Care Services in Traverse City

Munson to Expand Child Care in Traverse City

Now Open: Elk Rapids Specialty Care Clinic