Level 7

Make a list of grocery items and stick to your list, so that you won't end up buying things you might not need or foods that might not be healthy

Don't shop when you are hungry. You may buy too much, or purchase unhealthy snacks

Plan a time to go to the grocery store that puts the least amount of stress on you (eg, not having to shop when you are in a hurry or at times the store is likely to be crowded, like late afternoons)

Find a friend to shop with you, and make it a shared outing

Nicotine is a stimulant and will interfere with a good night's sleep

Smokers may experience nicotine withdrawal at night, which wakes them up

At first, giving up smoking may cause more sleep problems, but the long-term effect will be improved, relaxing sleep and better overall health

Volunteering can give you chances to meet people with similar interests

Volunteering can give you a sense of satisfaction and self-worth

You may develop skills in your volunteer activities that you can use in your part-time job

Use a pharmacy that will deliver your medicines

Use your prescription bottles to order refills

Your case manager can help you with any problems you have in getting your medicine refilled

Fast foods such as hamburgers, french fries, and pizza tend to be high in calories that can make you gain weight

Consider going out for fast food only with a friend who will encourage you to enjoy yourself without overdoing it

Balance a fast food meal with fresh vegetables and fruits like a green salad, carrot sticks, or an apple or orange

Exercise contributes to your mental health as well as your physical health

Exercise helps keep your weight down

Exercising in a place where there are other people gives you opportunities to make new friends

Part-time work will allow you enough time to rest

Choose a kind of work that matches your interests, skills, and abilities

Have your vocational rehabilitation counselor help you identify ways to look for a position and practice interviewing techniques

Before you begin your new job, practice getting to and from work so you won't be anxious about it when you start

Keep the phone number of your case manager or a family member with you at all times in case you need help