Small steps, lasting impact: Supporting your well-being this October

Health

Small steps, lasting impact: Supporting your well-being this October

October 8, 2026

From preventive health screenings to walking groups and beyond, discover resources and habits to support your well-being. Photo from Getty Images, whitebalance.space.

October's observances of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month and World Mental Health Day are good reminders that well-being includes physical, emotional and social health. It's also a reminder to focus on habits and resources that support those areas.

Prioritize preventative care

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to learn about personal and family health histories and stay current with recommended screenings. Mammograms typically begin at age 40 for those at average risk, while people with certain risk factors, such as a family history, may benefit from earlier screening. Healthcare providers can discuss risk factors, breast density and the best screening options for personalized care.

Emory Healthcare has expanded access to mammography with dedicated employee appointments and flexible scheduling. View appointment options and explore the Breast Cancer Awareness Month event calendar for programs and activities. To participate in any of these events, email Charnaye Bosley for more details.

Add an annual flu vaccine to your fall preventive-care checklist. Visit Emory's Preventive Vaccinations webpage for more information, including vaccination locations and requirements for Emory Healthcare employees.

Plan to move each day

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to support wellness. Regular movement can improve cardiovascular health, help with weight management, improve blood sugar and support mental well-being.

Join a Healthy Emory Walking group, stretch between meetings, participate in the Move Together Challenge, or find other enjoyable ways to move throughout the day. Building movement into daily routines can strengthen physical and emotional well-being and give opportunities to connect with coworkers.

Pay attention to mental health

Mental health is essential to overall well-being. Take time for a personal mental health check, and also check to see how others around you are doing. Explore available screenings and self-assessments and connect with support when needed:

• Emory University employees can access support through the Faculty Staff Assistance Program (FSAP), including confidential counseling, workshops and educational webinars. Check out FSAP's online calendar to discover upcoming events.
• Emory Healthcare employees can access similar support through Revive, including counseling services, self-assessments, digital support resources and tools designed to support emotional health and resilience.

Prepare for the year ahead

Annual enrollment begins Monday, Oct. 19, making it the perfect time to review personal and family benefits and well-being resources. With program updates planned for 2027, learn what is changing and prepare for the year ahead.

Emory University employees are encouraged to attend an annual enrollment webinar, and Emory Healthcare employees are encouraged to attend an upcoming benefits fair. These events offer opportunities to learn about available resources, ask questions and understand how benefits and well-being programs can offer support.

Small, consistent steps matter

• Healthy Emory

• Emory ranked among Atlanta's healthiest employers

• Access mental health resources across Emory

• Support well-being with these tools for connection and mental health