Optum Idaho

One person, one family, one community at a time. Every individual and every family has a unique road to wellness, health and hope. Optum manages outpatient behavioral health benefits for Idaho Medicaid members. It is our commitment to help transform Idaho’s behavioral health outpatient system by focusing on helping people reach recovery in their own health journey.

"Adventure Outside" to Recharge Your Mental Health This Summer!

Hello Idaho! Caution during the pandemic has been a good thing. It’s helped us keep ourselves and our Idaho communities safer. But with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently relaxing public health guidelines, fully vaccinated people can begin interacting socially again.

An American Psychological Association survey earlier this year found that 49% of adults reported feeling uncomfortable about returning to in-person interactions, even after being fully vaccinated.

If you, a friend or family member is experiencing anxiety about going out, don't rush it. It’s healthier to gradually take it one step at a time. Much of people’s anxiety might be stemming from a fear that other people won't follow the CDC guidelines, even though they’ve been relaxed. Understand that’s out of your control.

If you want to go out but are hesitant, consider an “Adventure Outside” to recharge your mental health. Now that summer is here and the risk of virus transmission is lower outdoors, help reduce isolation and loneliness by taking a stroll through a city park, bike along a greenbelt path or simply enjoy scenic Idaho. Spending time in nature is linked to both cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health and emotional well-being (Nurtured by Nature (apa.org)). To learn more ways to reduce isolation and encourage conversations around mental well-being, visit optum.com\helloidaho