Hello and welcome to this edition of For Your Benefit. In this issue, we are focused on two awareness campaigns in the month of May – National Food Allergy and Mental Health Awareness Month. There is a great deal to know and learn about both, so we have gathered some helpful information on each topic. We are also spotlighting the Health Advocate program introduced this year and the tools and resources available to you through Securian.
Researchers estimate that 32 million Americans have food allergies, including 5.6 million children under age 18 with about 40 percent of children with food allergies being allergic to more than one food. Because these allergies can have serious and even life-threatening complications, please take a moment to learn more in this magazine.
May also marks the recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental illnesses are not well understood in terms of their causes, but treatment for most types of mental health concerns is readily available and often effective for many people. However, there continues to be a stigma surrounding mental health illnesses, causing those who may need help to avoid seeking care. You can learn more in the Mental Health article and be part of changing the stigma.
Let’s face it – healthcare is complicated and none of us have spare time to work our way through the maze. That’s why Pearson partnered with Health Advocate in 2019. You can use Health Advocate in a variety of ways from finding the right doctors to dealing with insurance claims to getting expert help in understanding test results and more.
While Securian manages our life insurance plans, there is much more available through our partnership with them. With their lifestyle benefits, you have access to additional financial tools and resources like will preparation and pre-planning help prior to travel. See the Securian Financial article for more information.
Summer will be upon us shortly, so this will be the last edition of For Your Benefit until the fall. As always, visit our website for information about the many benefits available to you. Please watch for our e-health messages throughout the coming months to stay informed about important health and wellness topics. Until our next issue, best wishes for a happy, healthy and safe summer from the Pearson Benefits team.
Be well,
John R. Jacobs, Vice President, Global Benefits