HHS shares tips for staying happy and healthy this Thanksgiving

BISMARCK, ND - To help North Dakotans enjoy good health and well-being as they gather this Thanksgiving, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is sharing these tips on food safety, supporting friends and family in recovery, practicing gratitude and staying up to date on vaccinations.

Food Safety

Foodborne illnesses are more common than one may think. Roughly one in six Americans become ill due to foodborne diseases each year. Below are tips on how to safely prepare and handle food to enjoy a healthy holiday:

Wash hands with soap and clean, running water for at least 20 seconds before, during and after preparing food, as well as before eating. Dry hands with a clean towel.
Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and countertops with hot, soapy water, especially after they have come into contact with raw meat, poultry, seafood or eggs.
Thaw you turkey safely. Turkeys can be thawed in the refrigerator, in a sink of cold water with the water being changed every 30 minutes or in the microwave. No foods should thaw on the counter. Find safe thawing tips for different sized turkeys at Turkey Basics: Safe Thawing | Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Prevent cross-contamination of foods. Keep raw meats, poultry, seafood, eggs and other food from coming into contact with each other.
Cook food thoroughly. Test food with a food thermometer. A turkey should be cooked to at least 165° F. Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature at 165° F or until food is hot and steaming. See a safe minimum internal temperature guide for various foods at Cook to a Safe Minimum Internal Temperature | FoodSafety.gov.
Store leftovers quickly. Never leave food unrefrigerated for over two hours. Learn more at "Danger Zone" (40°F - 140°F) | Food Safety and Inspection Service.

To learn more about food safety tips or possible foodborne illness, visit the HHS Foodborne and Gastrointestinal Illness webpage.

Preventing Illness

Thanksgiving gatherings often bring together multiple generations, including vulnerable individuals. Preventive measures, such as making sure you are up to date on recommended health screenings and routine immunizations are the best ways to protect your health this season.

Here’s how to protect yourself and others from severe illness:

Get vaccinated: It’s never too late to talk to a trusted health care provider about common respiratory illnesses, including the flu and protective routine vaccinations.

Expressing Gratitude for Mental Well-being

Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to reflect on what we are grateful for—a practice that can benefit mental health and overall well-being. Research shows that gratitude can improve mood, reduce stress and strengthen relationships. Here are some ways to bring gratitude into your Thanksgiving celebration:

Share positivity: Take a moment before the meal for everyone to express something they’re thankful for. This simple act fosters connection and encourages positive reflections.
Focus on the present: Limit screen time and enjoy the moment with loved ones, helping everyone feel connected and valued.
Give back: Acts of kindness, like volunteering or helping a family member, can also boost happiness and reduce feelings of anxiety.

If you're still feeling overwhelmed or need additional support, visit the North Dakota Mental Health Directory for resources that can help guide you toward professional care and support services. You’re not alone—help is available. Also, if you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. It is free and confidential.

Supporting Loved Ones in Recovery

For those in recovery from alcohol or substance use disorders, holiday gatherings can sometimes be challenging. Here’s how to create a supportive environment for all guests:

Offer nonalcoholic options: Consider including festive, alcohol-free drinks to ensure everyone can comfortably participate.
Respect boundaries: Avoid pushing anyone to discuss topics they’re uncomfortable with, especially regarding their recovery journey.
Show understanding and encouragement: Small gestures of support, like checking in or offering a private space for a guest to take a break, can go a long way.

If you or someone you know is looking for support during the holiday season, Recovery Talk is a free, confidential service available 24/7, staffed by trained peer support specialists. Call or text (701) 291-7901 anytime to connect with someone who understands.

Stay Connected to Health Resources

For additional health information, tips and resources, visit the North Dakota Health and Human Services website hhs.nd.gov.

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