As the new year begins, the tradition of making resolutions offers a chance for personal improvement, growth and other positive changes. Setting and sticking with New Year’s resolutions can lead to lifelong changes and overall better well-being.
Health-related goals are the most common resolutions set each year. After all, good health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Improved health boosts physical well-being, which positively impacts a person’s mental and emotional health. Whether aiming to lose weight, increase physical activity or adopt healthier eating habits, prioritizing health can lead to increased energy,
improved mood and a reduced risk of various diseases.
At Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), talented and dedicated healthcare professionals can assist patients in achieving health-related goals. Many resolutions can be addressed by a primary care provider (PCP), who can help patients begin the journey to establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Beyond treating illnesses, PCPs work one-on-one with patients to assess their personal health needs and goals.
From diet and nutrition to weight loss and sleep health to stress management, cancer screenings, vaccinations and more, PMC primary care providers can offer tips or make referrals that are in the best interest of their patient’s health. The first step toward healthy living is to establish a relationship with a PCP, commonly referred to as a “family doctor,” focusing on comprehensive
and continuous long-term care. Additional PMC departments that can potentially help patients accomplish New Year’s resolutions include bariatric/weight loss surgery, diabetes education/support, sleep medicine, women’s care and more.
Most resolutions are made at the beginning of the year, but the majority of them slowly dissipate after the first few weeks. Studies show it takes about 21 days to adopt new habits, and many efforts to do so fail long before then. To help ensure the success of New Year’s resolutions, it is most effective to create a plan, practice self-accountability and be patient.
