Welcome to the Local 4 Funds Office Wellbeing Hub.
We’re glad you’re here!
We’re glad you’re here!
“Happiness is the highest form of health.”
– Dalai Lama
Karen Larsen
Social Worker and Care Coordinator
2026 Local 4 Life $250 Incentive
Enroll with our health coaching partner, TrestleTree, in 2026 and complete five appointments by December 11, 2026, to earn a $250 gift card*. TrestleTree coaches will work with you to develop SMART goals to help you manage chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and asthma, or help you work on a healthy lifestyle, such as nutrition, weight management, tobacco cessation, and exercise. This program is available at no cost to those who are enrolled in the Local 4 Health & Welfare Plan and their dependents. Contact TrestleTree at 866-523-8185 or IUOE Local 4 | TrestleTree.
*Open to new enrollees in 2026, enrollment must be started by 8/1/26.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know a quick dental screening can save a life? Approximately 60,000 oral cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. yearly. When detected early, oral cancer survival rates are close to 90 percent. Talk to your health care provider about a screening. For more information, see The Oral Cancer Foundation – Oral and oropharyngeal cancer information.
Oral cancers are often subtle in their early stages. A few things people often don’t realize:
- Oral cancer isn’t just linked to tobacco and alcohol; HPV is now one of the leading causes.
- Many cases are found late simply because symptoms can seem minor at first.
- A quick, painless screening during a dental visit can make a huge difference in outcomes.
Early symptoms of oral cancer can include:
- Sores in the mouth that do not heal.
- White or red patches on the gums, tongue, tonsils, or lining of the mouth.
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
- Changes in voice or feeling hoarse.
- Lumps or rough patches in the mouth or on the lips.
Additional information on signs and symptoms can be found here: What Are the Signs of Cancer in Your Mouth? | UPMC HealthBeat
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
This Month’s Featured Partners
Mental Health Resources with NOCD
What is obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)? According to the Mayo Clinic Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic, OCD is a pattern of unwanted fears and thoughts (obsessions) that cause someone to perform behaviors (compulsions). These thoughts and behaviors interfere with someone’s everyday life and cause distress. Some common obsessions include a preoccupation with germs or dirt, a strong need to have things ordered, and fears of losing control. Common compulsions include excessive washing, counting, and checking, such as checking to see if a door is locked repeatedly. If you are eligible for the Local 4 Health & Welfare Plan, our health insurance carrier, Blue Cross Blue Shield, has an in-network specialist provider who may be able to help.
NOCD offers a type of therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention, also known as ERP. Treatment is delivered by a NOCD licensed therapist that specializes in treating OCD with ERP. Therapists are trained by Dr. Jamie Feusner and Dr. Patrick McGrath, the leading experts on OCD. NOCD treats people virtually for ages 5+. The first appointment is about an hour, and a chance to get to know the therapist. Clients tell the therapist about their symptoms and what they hope to accomplish in therapy. They’ll also complete an assessment and receive a formal OCD diagnosis if needed. Clients get a treatment plan that will typically include a combination of one-hour sessions and 30-minute sessions. The therapist will work with them to decide the frequency that they meet. In addition, between sessions you can message the therapist directly inside the NOCD app or through the website. The therapist will reply at least once a day on weekdays. NOCD’s self-help tools in the app and peer communities are also available for additional support. NOCD is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Copayments, deductibles, and co-insurance apply. For more information, see OCD Treatment and Therapy | NOCD.
Check out the Mental Health Support Page at Mental Health Support – Local 4 Funds for more information on resources, our employee assistance program, and more specialized in-network providers through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.
The above content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for concerns about your health.
Tips from Lyra
Tips from Lyra
How do you know when you would benefit from mental health support? Check out this article from Lyra to learn more.
For more information or to enroll, contact Lyra at 844-926-2482 or Lyra Health.