Wellness Matters Winter 2022

Wellness Matters Winter 2022

• Immunization protects you and others • PhysicianNow is a great benefit • Eating for your immune system

A Newsletter on your

• Beating nicotine • Dealing with SAD • Money management tips

VOL. 8

‘AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE’ Plan Your 2022 Preventive Care

When it comes to your health, ignorance is not bliss. That’s why preventive healthcare is one of the most valuable resources in your Averitt benefits package. Maintaining your good health is vital to your personal and professional life, so making time for your health is always going to be a smart move. The start of the year is a great time for you and your dependents to plan your preventive health visits for 2022. Items on your checklist should include: • one annual checkup with your primary

tool that shows your how to make the most of the benefits you selected last October. By understanding all of the benefits available to you – from PhysicianNow telehealth visits to Health Savings Accounts – you can save money and feel better now and into the future. The choices you made during annual enrollment are just the starting point for a year of healthy decisions. No matter which medical, dental and vision plans you selected for 2022, Averitt offers resources and support you can use all year long. View an electronic copy online at InsideAveritt.com/BenefitsCheckIn . W m

healthcare provider • two teeth cleanings with your dentist

• one routine eye exam with your optometrist It’s our hope that you and your loved ones enjoy the best possible quality of life. That’s why our mission is to provide affordable, comprehensive health benefits to fit every family. We hope you will take advantage of your 2022 preventive care and discuss your health with your doctors, so you can keep doing what you love and Live Well. KEEP YOUR BENEFITS CHECK IN GUIDE ON HAND Your Benefits Check In Guide is a handy

Prevent illness this winter (Page 2)

Protect yourself by eating right (Page 3)

Dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (Page 4)

BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION: 800.233.9944 / Option 3 • [email protected] • Wellness Matters 2022

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ARM YOURSELF AND PROTECT OTHERS Immunizations Make It Easier To Prevent Illness This Winter

viruses simultaneously. And because it can take up to two weeks for your flu vaccine to take effect, it’s a good idea to get it sooner rather than later. In addition to getting your annual flu vaccine, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reminds everyone that safety measures used to prevent COVID-19 are also effective for preventing influenza:

One of the best ways to protect yourself and others is to make sure you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and to get your annual flu shot. If you’re enrolled in Averitt medical benefits, these preventive measures are fully covered at in- network providers. According to health experts, COVID-19 vaccines leave your body with the ability to produce antibodies that will fight the virus if you are exposed. This helps you build immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19 without getting the disease. At the same time, the flu shot is a safe and effective way to reduce the chances of spreading the illness. In fact, the vaccine prevents millions of cases every year and is recommended for individuals as young as 6 months old. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, getting your flu shot reduces the risk of contracting (and spreading) both

OVER-THE-COUNTER COVID-19 TESTS COVERED THROUGH EXPRESS SCRIPTS Our prescription partner, Express Scripts , now

covers at-home over-the-counter COVID-19 tests 100% for associates enrolled in our

• Clean your hands often • Sanitize high-touch surfaces • Keep six feet of distance between yourself and others • Use a facial covering

medical benefits. If you have this coverage, you can visit your local retail pharmacy for at-home COVID-19 tests at no cost to you. Visit InsideAveritt.com/COVID19 to learn how to take advantage of this benefit. W m

• If you feel sick, stay home and call your medical care provider Flu and COVID-19 shots are widely available and 100% covered by your benefits. Visit bcbst.com to find an in-network healthcare provider near you, so you can make an appointment to get your immunizations shot as soon as you can.

HEALTHCARE VIRTUALLY ANYWHERE PhysicianNow Telehealth Service Is A Powerful Benefit

home • Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – even holidays • If you’re considering the emergency room or urgent care for a non-emergency medical issue. For emergencies, it’s best to seek immediate medical attention in person. Visit a nearby urgent care clinic or emergency room, or call 911 to get help right away.

When you’re out on the road for the week and you need a doctor, we’ve got you covered. Over the phone or online, PhysicianNow is a valuable resource for you and your family. PhysicianNow is BlueCross BlueShield’s telemedicine service that’s available to associates enrolled in Averitt benefits. From your truck or from home, you have access to non-emergency remote medical consultation. That means affordable and convenient medical care anytime, anywhere. WHEN TO USE PHYSICIANNOW: • Your primary care doctor is not available • You’re on the road or away from

HOW TO REGISTER FOR PHYSICIANNOW:

• Register at bcbst.com • Log in to BlueAccess • Select the My Health & Wellness tab • Click on the PhysicianNow tile or call 888-283-6691. W m Wellness Matters 2022 • BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION: 800.233.9944 / Option 3 • [email protected]

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FORTIFY YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM Foods That Fight Infection

This time of year, it’s wise to choose foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. These mighty micronutrients are your secret weapon to fend off infections like COVID-19, flu and the common cold. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits and green vegetables, while zinc and vitamin D are abundant in animal proteins, fortified dairy, eggs, legumes, nuts and seeds. Your doctor may recommend a supplement if your diet is lacking these nutrients. When you take care of your immune system, it returns the favor. Make these simple and smart choices to keep you rolling while feeling your best. SNACKS THAT PACK A PUNCH AGAINST ILLNESS Before you head out on the road, grab some of these immune-boosting

snacks that you can enjoy in your truck. • Fresh fruit like apples, oranges, grapes and berries

• Fruit and veggie juices and pouches • Canned tuna and salmon • Nuts and seeds

• Boiled eggs • Low fat string cheese • Whole grain crackers • Lower sodium/sugar jerky W m

BECOME TOBACCO-FREE IN 2022 This Is Your Year To Beat Nicotine!

Choosing to quit using tobacco products is a big decision, and we’re here to help you keep your 2022 New Year resolution. If you’re ready to save money and begin reducing serious health risks, your Averitt benefits give you resources you can use to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Visit the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Wellness Portal to learn more about tobacco cessation and make a plan to quit. GETTING ON THE WELLNESS PORTAL IS SIMPLE: • Log on to BlueAccess from bcbst.com • Select the My Health & Wellness option • Click on the Member Wellness Portal option • Select the Continue option next to your name. If you haven’t logged on to the Wellness Portal before, you’ll be asked to select your contact preferences. Once you’re on the portal, you can access the Tobacco Cessation Program and begin improving your life by kicking the habit. W m

BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION: 800.233.9944 / Option 3 • [email protected] • Wellness Matters 2022

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BE WELL INSIDE AND OUT Take Care of Yourself This Winter

professionals, but it also inhibits your immune system, lowers your defense against viruses, and can increase inflammation in your body. That’s why it’s important to start your day fresh by getting adequate sleep (7-9 hours) during your 10-hour break. This regulates your hormones and promotes your overall health. Even naps help to supplement the rest you might miss while on the road. EAT WELL . Good nutrition fuels your energy, focus, and emotional health. An important key is to limit added sugar and other highly processed foods that inevitably lead to a mental and physical “crash.” Nutrient-dense foods like fruits and veggies, lean

protein, and healthy fats keep you trucking while fortifying your defense against sickness and seasonal depression. EXERCISE . When it comes to exercise, any movement is better than none. Even light physical activity can improve your mood. A 10-minute walk around your truck or on the dock is great way to maintain your health and alleviate tension, and you can do it almost anywhere. Just make sure to bundle up first! TAKE TIME FOR YOU . Make sure you’re using all of your paid time off (PTO) so you can take time to unwind, do your favorite hobbies, and spend

time with the ones you love. Investing this quality time in yourself relieves stress and promotes happiness, and that all adds up to good health. GET SUPPORT . If you’re struggling with depression and anxiety, you’re not alone. Through your Averitt benefits, you have access to compassionate, professional licensed counselors through Health Advocate, our EAP (Employee Assistance Program) provider. They can talk with you and put you in touch with expert resources for additional support. To reach a counselor 24/7, call 1-800- 854-1446. W m

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression brought on by the change in seasons. Typically, it sets in when the days start to get short in the late fall and winter and goes away during the spring and summer. During the darkest and coldest time of year, these small acts of self-care add up to help you stay emotionally well. Here are a few simple actions that will brighten your day and promote your overall health. SLEEP . While many over-the-road and team shuttle drivers find it challenging to get enough rest, studies show that it’s important to prioritize your sleep. Lack of sleep is not only a safety concern for transportation

GOOD HABITS THAT MAKE ‘CENTS’ 5 Smart Money Habits To Start This Year

•“Snowball” method: Pay off the smallest balance first, then the next smallest, and so on. 3. PLAN FOR RETIREMENT Many people who’ve accelerated retirement savings put away about 15% of their income. These four strategies may help you gradually get to that goal. • Increase your retirement savings by at least 1%, each year or when you receive a raise. Averitt is committed to helping associates save for retirement with autoenrollment in a 401(k) account when hired, and it automatically increases your contribution by 1% each year. Work your way up to 10-15% for optimal retirement savings. • Check your progress at least yearly. Rebalance your funds if needed or consolidate if you have previous savings that you can roll into one account. • Treat saving for your future like another bill you pay each month. Automatic withdrawals from your paycheck to your retirement account allow you to pay your future self, first.

When it comes to managing your money and saving for goals, the earlier you can figure out what works for you, the better. Experts at Principal Financial Group, our 401(k) and Profit Sharing partner, offer these good habits that make a big financial difference in the long run. 1. LIVE BENEATH YOUR MEANS Small changes do make a big impact over time, and that includes creating a budget and managing your expenses so you’re always spending less than you earn. Changes that might help:

4. SAVE FOR EMERGENCIES Would a $500 expense throw off your budget in a big way? If the answer is yes, it’s a good idea to set up an emergency fund. That way, the unexpected doesn’t derail your long- term plans. • Several months of income is generally the advice for an emergency fund, but just starting with something – even $100 a month – helps create that savings habit. • Add to it gradually as you’re able to build toward three to six months of savings for unexpected events. 5. KEEP LEARNING ABOUT MONEY Education drives confidence, and confidence drives action. Even investing a small amount of time learning more about personal finance may provide a huge boost to your self-confidence in financial decision making. These good financial habits can help you learn how to achieve bigger, long-term goals. Visit InsideAveritt.com/Principal to view your Profit Sharing and 401(k) information, and take advantage of a wealth of tools and tips for strengthening your financial wellness today and down the road. W m

• Drive older vehicles • Own a modest home • Dine out less • DIY when possible

2. MANAGE YOUR DEBT When it comes to tackling debt, there are a few different approaches, and it’s important to find the one that works for you. Here are the two most popular many successfully knock out debts: • “Avalanche” method: Pay off the highest- interest balance first, then the next highest, and so on.

BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION: 800.233.9944 / Option 3 • [email protected] • Wellness Matters 2022