National Family Caregivers Month is celebrated each November. On this podcast, Dana Neemann, CCMH Director of Education, discusses caregiving among family members and the stresses that come along with that responsibility. She also shares information about the Caregivers Support group that meets at CCMH each month. For more information, contact us a dneemann@ccmhia.com.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. On this podcast, Sara Gaul, Population Health Manager at CCMH, discusses the risk factors, symptoms and treatments for people with diabetes, and what can be done to prevent diabetes. If you would like to arrange an appointment to talk about your diabetes with Sara, call the CCMH Medical Clinic at 712-265-2700.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. Patrick Stevens, Director of Cardiopulmonary Services, discusses the risk factors and symptoms of COPD, as well as available treatments.

One in five adults, or roughly 600,000 Iowans, live with some form of mental illness. On this week's podcast, Jill Wonder, a counselor for Plains Area Mental Health Center, discusses her work with mental health patients and the great need for mental health services in Iowa. Immediate help for someone in a mental health crisis is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, by calling 1-888-546-0730. Services can also be accessed by logging on to www.plainsareamentalhealth.org.

Domestic violence affects a significant number of families across Iowa including Denison and Crawford County. On this podcast, Jill, a victim advocate for Family Crisis Centers (FCC), discusses the how and the why of domestic violence, and some of the possible solutions. She also describes the kinds of assistance available through FCC to domestic violence victims. If you are in need of assistance due to domestic violence, call 800-382-5603. You can also text IOWAHELP to 20121.

Breast Cancer Awareness is celebrated every October. This observance brings to the forefront the need for early detection and treatment through self-exams and regular mammograms. On this week's podcast, Sarah Steadham, Radiologic Technician at CCMH, talks about breast cancer awareness, causes, and improvements in diagnostic testing. For those women who would like to schedule a mammography, contact CCMH directly at 712-265-2500 or 712-265-2561.

Farm safety is of the highest priority now that harvest season in full swing. Samantha Pauley, Director of Enmergency Services, discusses the need for patience on the roads, in the fields and when unloading grain on-farm.

Medicare Open Enrollment begins on October 15 and runs through December 7, 2024. On this podcast, Connie Riesselman, Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) coordinator, says open enrollment is a good time to review coverages, especially Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, to determine if a change can help save money. To schedule an appointment with the SHIIP counselors at CCMH, call 712-265-2509.