In February, Optum EAP explores resources to help foster positive relationships with food and support overall health and wellness. In honor of World Cancer Day, find additional resources to support individuals and caregivers navigating cancer. Log in to Optum to view the tools and resources below.

The Optum Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free service for all full-time state employees and those in their household and can be a beneficial tool to improve your overall well-being. You have 8 free face-to-face EAP counseling visits with a licensed therapist available per issue, per year. These tools and resources are available 24/7 and are completely confidential.

Contact Optum EAP

• Phone: 800-886-9747 (24/7 support)
• Website: liveandworkwell.com (Access code: Indiana): Access all the Optum EAP online resources.
• Optum Assist app: Available in the App Store and Google Play. Log into the app and enter access code: Indiana

Leaders prioritize families: In recent times, there has been a significant increase in awareness and focus on youth mental health. Working parents often find themselves balancing the demands of their jobs with the needs and concerns of their families. When a child is experiencing a mental health challenge, parents can become preoccupied and distracted at work, potentially impacting their performance. Play podcast

Eating disorders vs. disordered eating: Understanding the difference: Recognizing the characteristics of eating disorders versus disordered eating isn’t always simple. Although they may be similar, eating disorders and disordered eating are distinct from one another — though both are a cause for concern. We dove into the research and talked to experts to help you tell the difference. Read more

Do you have a healthy relationship with food? Help build a healthier, more compassionate relationship with food and yourself. Read more

Cancer diagnosis and mental health: February 4 is World Cancer Day. This article offers support and understanding for the emotional challenges you may face along the way if you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer. Read article

Why there aren’t “good” and “bad” foods: Understanding the all-foods-fit approach: Create a balance between nutrient-dense foods and fun foods that feels right to you. Taking an all-foods-fit approach to nutrition means allowing room for a wide variety of foods in your meals and snacks. Read more

Concerned about an eating disorder? Screen signs for a potential eating disorder. Read more

I'm too busy to eat healthy: This course covers the basics of eating well, addressing why we should do it and how we can make it work in our busy lives. Download

Ways to support a loved one diagnosed with cancer: When your loved one tells you they have cancer, it’s natural to feel a wide range of strong emotions, such as sadness anger, confusion or even numbness. Finding ways to support them during this challenging time is what matters most. Read article

When the lights come back on: What real eating disorder recovery looks like: Even though recovery looks different depending on who you ask, it’s a transformative and life-affirming experience. As the eating disorder fades, the real person steps into the light — and if that means a return to their old self or stepping into a new version of themselves. Read article

Eat happy: The science of food and mood:  Wondering how to boost your health and feel better? Uptime’s got you covered. Explore the link between diet and mental health with research-based recommendations for using food to improve your mood. Watch video