June Program Updates

Job Safety
Ensuring job safety is not just a regulatory requirement; it plays a vital role in enhancing workplace productivity and fostering employee well-being. Occupational safety encompasses both psychological and physical aspects, creating a holistic approach to a safe working environment. Here are several essential practices to maintain health and safety at work:

1. Cultivate Awareness of Your Work Environment: Stay vigilant about potential hazards and familiarize yourself with safety protocols relevant to your specific workplace.
2. Maintain Proper Posture: Whether sitting at a desk or lifting objects, using correct posture can prevent injuries. Be mindful of ergonomic practices to support your body.
3. Take Well-Being Breaks: Schedule regular breaks to recharge and refocus, ensuring they align with operational needs. Short intervals away from tasks can significantly enhance mental clarity and reduce fatigue.
4. Manage Stress Effectively: Implement stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or brief stretches. A calm mind contributes to a safer work environment.
5. Ensure Exits Are Accessible: Keep all emergency exits clear and unobstructed. This preparation is crucial in the event of an emergency evacuation.
6. Report Unsafe Conditions Promptly: If you encounter any unsafe work conditions, report them immediately to a supervisor. Addressing potential hazards can prevent accidents and injuries.
7. Utilize Tools and Machinery Correctly: Follow all safety guidelines and operational instructions when using tools and machinery. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential.

For more information and resources, go to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the New York State Department of Labor, and WellNYS in the Workplace.

If you seek additional support regarding health and job safety, please reach out to your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) coordinator using the coordinator listing or call 1-800-822-0244.

The June DIRECTIONS: Pre-Retirement Planning webinars will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 16 and 17. If you are at least 50 years old or covered under a special plan that allows retirement before age 55 and has supervisory approval, join us to learn more about planning for your retirement. Register for the June webinar.

WellNYS Everyday is a wellness initiative dedicated to educating, engaging, and empowering NYS employees and their families by encouraging participation in healthy behaviors.

Elevate Your Week with WellNYS Everyday in 2026. Make better choices for well-being and staying well with our themed daily emails. Every day of the week will focus on a different theme.

Motivation Monday: Create a fresh and optimistic start to the week.
Tracking Tuesday: Identify and track the behaviors you want to develop into habits.
Well-Being Wednesday: Explore small mid-week actions that inspire physical and mental health.
Tasty Thursday: Discover delicious, easy, and healthy recipes.
Fit Friday: Tips and tricks to make physical activity more fun.
Self-care Saturday: Prioritize personal well-being.
Stillness Sunday: End the week by reflecting, recharging, and finding peace.

Visit WellNYS Everyday and sign up for WellNYS Daily To-Do.

Building Brain-Healthy Habits
Wednesday, June 3, 12:00 P.M.

Presenter: Ann Thayer, Alzheimer’s Association, Northeastern New York Chapter 

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Research shows there are everyday habits you can build today to help protect your memory and thinking in the future – even reducing your risk of cognitive decline and possibly dementia. Changing one habit may have a ripple effect on other habits. Even small actions may add up to big improvements. In this program, you will learn about healthy habits for your brain, such as exercising and eating right. Hear about why brain health is important at all ages. Build a personalized action plan for brain-healthy habits. Now is the time to build healthy habits. Join us to learn how you can take positive steps to help you live better now and protect your memory and thinking as you get older.

Register for June 3 webinar

Make Mental Health Matter: How to Navigate the Empire Plan Mental Health Benefits

Wednesday, June 10, 12:00 P.M.

Presenter: Emily Lang Anastasio, NYS Department of Civil Service, NYS Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) Communications Manager

Navigating mental health care should be simple and convenient. Join this presentation to learn about the benefits of telehealth and programs available to NYSHIP members so that you and your enrolled dependents have all the tools needed to thrive.  

Register for the June 10 webinar

Improving Family Communication
Wednesday, June 17, 12:00 P.M.
Presenter: Laura Coraldi, Cornell Cooperative Extension

Developing healthy, trusting communication can be a challenge for any family. Join us to learn how to get your kids to talk to and keep the conversation going. We will discuss positive communication strategies that help kids open up and reduce family conflict. Learn strategies and practical ways to develop stronger family connections through communication.

Register for the June 17 webinar

NYS Network Child Care Center Highlight

This month, we are spotlighting The Children’s Place at the Plaza in Albany.

The Children’s Place at the Plaza began offering child care in 1979. The Center is a high-quality educational program that provides safe, attentive care for children in an environment where they can grow and learn at their own pace. The Center serves children and families of State employees, as well as the community at large. Located on the Empire State Plaza in Albany, the Center has a long-standing reputation of excellence in early childhood education in the Capital District.

The Center provides developmentally appropriate programs for young children led by a dedicated and experienced staff with credentials in early childhood education. A state-of-the-art playground is available daily for active outdoor play.

Some quick facts about The Children’s Place at the Plaza:

• The Center is open year-round, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• The program offers care for infants, toddlers, preschool, and UPK for a total of 126 children.
• The Center provides breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack with a focus on healthy, whole grains, and natural foods.

For additional information, please contact the Children’s Place at the Plaza at: [email protected] or call the Center at: (518) 473-7112. Visit the Center’s website.

For a full list of the NYS Network Child Care Centers and additional child care information, go to: NYS Network Child Care Centers.