Stressful times in Baltimore
The city of Baltimore is experiencing a difficult time. In the aftermath of the funeral of Freddie Gray, violence and the destruction of property occurred in parts of the city. The media has been showing constant coverage of the events. It may feel like it is impossible to escape newscasts and stories and images of the event. Many of you may live in the affected area while others of us are deeply concerned.
We are saddened by the death of this young man. Many of us may feel confused, frightened and not quite sure how to respond.
During a time like this, normal reactions include different feelings, thoughts and behaviors:
Feelings may include: sadness, anger, anxiety, uncertainty, irritability, vulnerability, helplessness, shock and disbelief.
Thoughts – difficulty focusing, disbelief, overwhelmed, confusion, preoccupation, sense of uneasiness
Behaviors – difficulty sleeping, appetite disturbance (can’t eat or eat too much), absentmindedness, withdrawal, isolation, increased use of substances (alcohol or drugs) restlessness and crying.
What can I do to help my children?
Children are especially frightened when they see what is happening.
Monitor or discourage children from watching media coverage.
Allow them to voice their fears.
Assure them that you will keep them safe.
What can I do to help myself?
Sharing your feelings but limit discussions in which you give your opinion for not everyone may feel the same.
Be a compassionate listener
Identify positive stress relievers – i.e. exercise, prayer, volunteering, etc.
Disconnect or limit media exposure about the disturbance for a time
In situations like this, the number one priority is safety for you and your family. If possible, avoid all areas where the disturbances are taking place. Here are some basic safety tips:
• Stay calm and keep your emotions in check
• Avoid confrontation
• Walk slowly and move away from the crowd as soon as you can
• Move to a safe, enclosed area whenever you are able
• If you live in an area where there is a disturbance, keep away from windows and doors and lock them
• If at all possible, plan an escape from the area
Remember your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to you. Experienced counselors can offer support and structure to help individuals and groups talk about the issues. Feel free to call us at 667.214.1555 to schedule an appointment.
Non-profit Helps with Filing Tax Returns
CASH is a non-profit association that helps low income tax filers with their tax returns. CASH stands for “Creating Assets, Savings and Hope.” It was founded in 2001 to help file tax returns and to offer financial advice. Volunteers are located at community centers and churches around Baltimore. Please go to www.bmorefreetaxes.org for more information.
A Non-profit can Help with Tax Returns
CASH is a non-profit association that helps low income tax filers with their tax returns. CASH stands for “Creating Assets, Savings and Hope.” It was founded in 2001 to help file tax returns and to offer financial advice. Volunteers are located at community centers and churches around Baltimore. Please go to www.bmorefreetaxes.org for more information.
Mediation for Employees
Did you know the EAP provides mediation services?
If two employees are having trouble working together, the EAP might be able to help. Both employees can be referred (or refer themselves) to the EAP for Mediation Services. Different counselors would meet one-on-one with each employee. Then, the employees and the counselors will all meet to talk about problems and solutions. Often, these meetings are only needed one time, but can span a period of time to monitor progress and use the meetings as a forum to talk about other issues that might arise. Many times, misunderstandings have been resolved, new relationships have been formed and productivity has risen. Work doesn’t have to be something you dread. It can be a place you look forward to going to and feel accomplished as you and your team work together toward a common goal.
Mediation between Employees
Did you know the EAP provides mediation services?
If two employees are having trouble working together, the EAP might be able to help. Both employees can be referred (or refer themselves) to the EAP for Mediation Services. Different counselors would meet one-on-one with each employee. Then, the employees and the counselors will all meet to talk about problems and solutions. Often, these meetings are only needed one time, but can span a period of time to monitor progress and use the meetings as a forum to talk about other issues that might arise. Many times, misunderstandings have been resolved, new relationships have been formed and productivity has risen. Work doesn’t have to be something you dread. It can be a place you look forward to going to and feel accomplished as you and your team work together toward a common goal.
Anger Management Class-January 13, 2015
The EAP will be hosting an Anger Management class beginning next week.
It will be taught in a class-like format so you can learn how your background and family experiences taught you about anger. The class will give you ideas of different ways to control and express your anger.
The class will be small, no more than 10 people, and will be non-judgmental. We are all here to learn. The class will be held at noon on Tuesdays.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from anger management, call the EAP now to reserve your spot in the class – 667.214-1561 (Counselor, Sue Walker)
Or email sue at swalker@psych.umaryland.edu
Anger Management Class-January 13, 2015
The EAP will be hosting an Anger Management class beginning next week.
It will be taught in a class-like format so you can learn how your background and family experiences taught you about anger. The class will give you ideas of different ways to control and express your anger.
The class will be small, no more than 10 people, and will be non-judgmental. We are all here to learn. The class will be held at noon on Tuesdays.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from anger management, call the EAP now to reserve your spot in the class – 667.214-1561 (Counselor, Sue Walker)
Or email sue at swalker@psych.umaryland.edu
New Year’s Resolution-Better Self-Care
Trouble Sleeping?
More and more research is coming out that the use of electronics near bedtime can interfere with sleep. Light is considered one of the strongest factors affecting the body’s circadian clock, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is suppose to be highest at night to help induce sleep. However, light can suppress melatonin and thus, disrupt the body’s circadian cycle.
So, if you are having trouble sleeping, monitor your use of anything with a light emitting screen: TV, lap top, cell phone, electronic reading device, etc. The brighter the light and the closer you hold it to your eyes (as we are apt to do with cell phones) the more potentially disruptive the light can be to your whole system.
A poor night’s sleep can affect everything the next day: your mood, your focus, your energy. Do yourself a favor and leave at least 1-2 hours before bedtime free from electronics. Give yourself a few days to see if your melatonin begins to kick back into gear and you have better sleep.
For other self-care tips, please visit the EAP and let a counselor assist you in some new ideas that are customized for YOU. Make 2015 the year you finally achieve this New Year’s Resolution!
New Year’s Resolution-Better Self-Care
Trouble Sleeping?
More and more research is coming out that the use of electronics near bedtime can interfere with sleep. Light is considered one of the strongest factors affecting the body’s circadian clock, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is suppose to be highest at night to help induce sleep. However, light can suppress melatonin and thus, disrupt the body’s circadian cycle.
So, if you are having trouble sleeping, monitor your use of anything with a light emitting screen: TV, lap top, cell phone, electronic reading device, etc. The brighter the light and the closer you hold it to your eyes (as we are apt to do with cell phones) the more potentially disruptive the light can be to your whole system.
A poor night’s sleep can affect everything the next day: your mood, your focus, your energy. Do yourself a favor and leave at least 1-2 hours before bedtime free from electronics. Give yourself a few days to see if your melatonin begins to kick back into gear and you have better sleep.
For other self-care tips, please visit the EAP and let a counselor assist you in some new ideas that are customized for YOU. Make 2015 the year you finally achieve this New Year’s Resolution!
Anger Management Class
Anger Management class is now forming.
- What do you do when you get angry?
- How do you feel when you get angry?
- Does your anger last too long?
- What happens after you get angry?
- Does your anger interfere with your job or your relationships?
Could you or someone you know benefit from anger management?
Call the EAP now to reserve your spot in the class – 667.214-1561 (Counselor, Sue Walker)
Or email sue at swalker@psych.umaryland.edu