Pictured: Dr. Kevin L. Gilliam II. Photo Credit: Uche Iroegbu Photographic

As we continue to live through a pandemic and experience collective trauma through global events, we asked NorthPoint’s new Medical Director to provide a couple important reminders for our community. “Like many things in life, it is the simple things that will help to keep us healthy with Covid.” says Kevin L. Gilliam II, MD, Medical Director of NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center.

Prevent COVID-19:

  • Get tested
  • Get vaccinated and boosted
  • Wear a mask when you feel sick
  • Mind your distance from people
  • Sanitize your hands

In addition to COVID-19 prevention and safety, there are other things we can do for our health and wellness. Dr. Gilliam: “In meditation we often encourage people to focus on their breath as it is a thing that we all have access to and is generally equally available to us all.  I would make the same claim of nature as it is wherever we are. Nature and outdoors are not some other places, but it is the place we exist and is around us whether we are in the middle of a city or in a rural setting and all we have to do is slow down and pay attention to it.” Here are some other ideas to try:

Slow down

  • Focus on your breath
  • Be present
  • Pay attention to your surroundings
  • Take breaks
  • Nap and rest

Connect with people

  • Check in with family
  • Socialize with friends with COVID safety in mind
  • Volunteer with an organization
  • Join community groups

Get outside

  • Exercise outdoors
  • Go for walks
  • Take advantage of lakes and parks
  • Commute by bike or on foot when possible

Talk to someone

  • Connect with people you can confide in
  • Join a support group
  • Seek out professional help
  • Call 612-543-2500 to connect with Behavioral Health at NorthPoint

Check your stress

  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep a night
  • Go easy on yourself
  • Limit your screen time
  • Watch your consumption of alcohol and other substances

To learn more, please visit www.northpointhealth.org

Recently, Dr. Gilliam succeeded Paul Erickson, MD, MPH as Medical Director. NorthPoint is grateful to Dr. Erickson for his service as Medical Director of NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center the past 16 years. Dr. Gilliam previously served as Associate Medical Director and has worked with Dr. Erickson for over 12 years, making him uniquely qualified and prepared to assume the medical clinic leadership.  About his new leadership role Dr. Gilliam says, “It has been my honor to serve at NorthPoint since beginning this work in 2009. It continues to be an honor to serve, in a different capacity, in the furtherance of our mission of partnering to create a healthier community.”

more sponsored content by northpoint health & wellness center

Eight Ways to Improve Your Colorectal Health

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time when we encourage everyone to become more aware of the things that affect your colorectal health. Colorectal cancer typically affects older adults, although it can happen at any age. It usually begins as small clumps of cells called polyps that form inside the colon. Polyps generally…

Seven Ways to Improve Your Heart Health

February is American Heart Month, a time when we encourage everyone to become more aware of the things that affect your heart health. Heart disease affects millions of Americans, and unfortunately it is the leading cause of death in this country. Because of barriers to early diagnosis and treatment, heart disease affects African Americans and…