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Events

Mar 14 Webinar: Gambling in the Workplace: Anything but a Safe Bet

Video Recording A video recording of this webinar is available for you to watch. Gambling in the Workplace: Anything but a Safe Bet Join us for a free webinar sponsored by the University of Maryland Department of Psychiatry FPI EAP Programs. Thursday, March 14, 20242:00–3:00 pm Join us for a better understanding of how problems […]

A Journey Through Her Lens Feb 3, 2024 flyer

Feb 3 Event: A Journey through Her Lens

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.Mu Xi Zeta ChapterBaltimore County, MDPresents “A JOURNEY THROUGH HER LENS” A powerful art-gallery style presentation with photographs & impactful discussion on domestic violence facilitated by Soror Carol Edwards – Alpha Zeta Chapter Saturday, February 3, 2024 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Woodmoor Recreational Activity Center7111 Croyden RoadBaltimore, MD 21207 Participants […]

Sep 21 Webinar: Making the Most of the Limited PSLF Waiver: How Employees Can Access Student Loan Forgiveness

Video Recording & Presentation Slides A video recording of this webinar is available for you to watch. You can also view and download the presentation slides. Making the Most of the Limited PSLF Waiver: How Employees Can Access Student Loan Forgiveness Join us for a free webinar sponsored by the University of Maryland Department of […]

July 22 Webinar: Mental Health and Well-Being: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Video Recording A video recording of this webinar is available for you to watch. Mental Health and Well-Being in the Age of COVID: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Implications and Practices Join us for a free webinar sponsored by the University of Maryland Department of Psychiatry FPI EAP Programs. The webinar includes 1 CEU for Social […]

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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
  • 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
  • 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.

Employee Assistance Program
419 W. Redwood St., Suite 560 Baltimore, MD 21201 667.214.1555 (Fax) 410.328.1132