Most of us have experienced the rise in healthcare costs. Add that troubling fact to our latest economic woes, and it's easy to see how many people will be forced to play a juggling game with their monthly budgets.

With health care costs escalating, flu season on the horizon, and stress-related and chronic illnesses pervasive in our society, the best course of action, is prevention.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend some basic steps that can help us protect ourselves and our families from illness.

1. Get a flu shot.

2. Encourage kids and adults to cover their mouths and noses when coughing and sneezing.

3. Wash your hands often, as this has proven to be one of the easiest ways to reduce the spread of germs.Disinfect household surfaces, like door knobs and telephones.

4. Based on a recent University of Arizona study, it only takes one child coming home from school with the flu to spread flu germs to 60% of your household surfaces, so disinfecting these surfaces regularly can help protect the rest of the family.

5. Eat reasonably and get adequate fresh air and exercise. Exercise and healthy eating habits are vitally important for today's kids. Studies show that obesity in children, and consequently type 2 diabetes in children, has increased. Children who are inactive, overeat, and/or who have a family history of diabetes are at greatest risk of developing this illness.

6. Maintain mind-body wellness. These are stressful times for millions of people, so it is especially important to focus on overall psychological health.  Reach out for support if you or your children are struggling with behavioral, cognitive and/or mental difficulties, depression, ADHD, or Post Traumatic Stress syndrome. 

The National Mental Health Foundation website is a great resource for information.