Buckeye Blog - Women's Health

Date: 09/24/19

“How you take care of yourself is how the world sees you. It’s okay to have a relationship with yourself.” – Jonathan Van Ness

Lately my daughter and I have been bingeing “Queer Eye” on Netflix. Jonathan Van Ness, one of the Fab Five, shares his grooming tips and tricks and teaches us all about the value of self-care. But for many of us, the need to care for others extends to children, partners, aging parents, and sometimes friends. All too often, it is easy to find yourself last on the to-do list.

It wasn’t surprising to me to read that three out of four women put off caring for themselves, oftentimes ignoring the need to make health appointments for themselves but making them for loved ones instead. As a busy wife and mom, I know I can relate to this. But, as a physician, I think, “you matter too!” If you think about it, if we don’t take care of ourselves, then how can we take care of others? And I don’t mean taking care of just our physical health. We have to take time to focus on our emotional and mental health, too. Go on that bike ride with friends, treat yourself to lunch or coffee, and just unplug for awhile. While you’re at it, mix up one of Johnathan’s “do-it-yourself” face masks made with only two ingredients, oats and honey (Johnathan uses  a fancy honey called Manuka honey, available at your local Costco or Amazon). It will calm down any redness and leave you feeling great.

After you recharge, consider making that appointment for your own annual exam. If you are not sure which health tests and exams you need each year, check out Healthline's suggestions for women's tests.

Remember, it’s not selfish to make yourself a priority. It will make you a better parent, partner, or friend with renewed energy to take care of your loved ones.

 Linda Upp, MD, is a Medical Director for Buckeye Health Plan