That quiet voice that questions your abilities or tells you that you don’t belong can be powerful, but it doesn’t have to lead. Understanding imposter syndrome can help you build confidence and resilience.

Imposter syndrome can affect anyone, at any stage. About 62% of people experience it. Doubting readiness, questioning success or worrying about keeping up can limit growth and wellbeing. Some things to try this month and beyond:

• Name it: Recognize these thoughts as common and temporary.
• Track wins: Keep a simple list of accomplishments, skills and positive feedback.
• Challenge it: Replace self-criticism with realistic, compassionate self-talk.
• Connect: Talk with trusted colleagues or mentors for perspective.

Small shifts in thinking can quiet the inner critic and help you show up with confidence.

Sources: National Institutes of Health, Healthwise

Summer brings fun and flexibility, but changes in routine, activities and social pressures can increase stress for children and teens. Stress may show up as irritability, worry, sleep changes, headaches, stomachaches or withdrawal from social activities.

Help kids relieve stress in healthy ways:

• Exercise: Walking, biking, outdoor play and sports help release tension and boost mood.
• Write or draw: Journaling or creative art helps children express worries and process emotions.
• Let feelings out: Invite kids to talk, laugh, cry and safely express anger.
• Reduce screen time: Encourage board games, hobbies, social time and volunteering.
• Relax: Practice breathing exercises, meditation, prayer, yoga or muscle relaxation.
• Laugh together: Humor lowers stress and builds connection.
• Eat healthy foods: Nutritious meals support energy, mood and emotional balance.

Small daily habits can make a big difference in helping kids feel calm, confident and supported.

For Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), self-care and nourishment aren’t just about healthy habits—they’re about restoration, resilience and reclaiming wellbeing in a world that often makes these things harder to access.

Research shows that BIPOC communities experience higher rates of diet-related illnesses like diabetes, obesity and
heart disease*—conditions that can increase chronic stress and affect mental health**.

Practicing self-care and making intentional nutrition choices can lower stress, uplift your spirit and strengthen your
mental wellbeing. Consider these tips.

1. Breathe and be still: Deep breathing and meditation practices from various traditions can help reduce stress and restore balance.
2. Move with joy: Dancing to music rooted in your culture—or others—can bring joy and celebrate self-expression.
3. Seek affirming support: Supportive professionals who respect your identity and lived experiences can help you develop strategies to flourish.
4. Explore nutrient-rich foods: Traditional greens and vegetables from various cultures contain nutrients that support positive mood, focus and energy.
5. Honor culinary traditions: Cooking with familiar herbs and spices can connect you to your heritage and nourish your wellbeing.

When we honor our roots through self-care and nourishment, we restore balance and build resilience.

*SD Food Vision 2030

** Harvard Health B-BIF020E (/25)

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know Mary Bozza Wise, senior manager, customer experience analytics.

Continue reading to learn more about Mary:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

Our work runs in distinct cycles – survey preparation, survey distribution, data collection and reporting. We are in our busy season of survey distribution and data collection. This means a lot of my day is spent in Qualtrics, our survey application, and Outlook. I check response counts in our active survey projects, make sure all is running well in Qualtrics, and then go to our Magellan Experience inbox in Outlook to make sure there aren’t any items that need follow-up by my team or forwarded to other groups for follow-up. I also make sure my team members have what they need to complete their tasks for the day/week and help move through any barriers they are experiencing. I do a good bit of programming, testing and consultation for the Qualtrics application to support data collection efforts beyond experience surveys that algin with the needs of our end users. I support our business owners throughout the survey process to make sure we are meeting requirements and using our resources responsibly. If questions or issues come up, I work with the appropriate folks to reach a reasonable solution. As one of my managers said early in my 25 year Magellan career, I make sure the trains run on time.

I am also the chair of the Magellan chapter of cPRIDE. While not a daily task, I do spend time weekly meeting with our chapter leaders, the other Employee Inclusion Group (EIG) leaders and creating or supporting content to create a supportive community for our members. I learn so much from this community and am honored to represent the group to the best of my ability. For over a year, I have been posting daily affirmations on our cPRIDE Teams channel to share community, support and connections in a positive way. It’s a small thing but it means a lot to me especially on tough days when a little smile goes a long way.

What are you currently reading and/or watching?

Currently, I am reading Joan Life Beyond the Script by Joan Lunden.   As someone who watched her co-host Good Morning America, I can connect to the televised events that she shares. Her story overall is very compelling for anyone who wonders if they can forge their own path in both work and life.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

I’m a big reader and fan of puzzles. I read in any version – audio book, e-book or physical book – but prefer to listen to biographical and historical books and read anything else. I participate in our library’s puzzle swap, so I can try new puzzle challenges. One of my favorites is this one I completed with my Mom last Summer. I’m a BIG fan of artist Frida Kahlo and this puzzle was a good balance between forward progression and challenge.

What do you like best about your current position?

All the people I work with throughout Magellan over the course of my career. I get to interact with multiple teams and learn what they do. There’s always something new to learn, share or figure out. I like digging in behind the scenes to see how things work and, where appropriate, think of ways to make the process better.

How do you feel you excel in supporting your team(s)?

For my direct reports, I really try to help them meet work goals and personal goals. For teams I support, I enjoy and excel at listening to what they want to achieve and guide them to the best possible path to get there. It’s like solving a puzzle in the day to day.

What is the best career advice that you have received or have learned through your own experiences?

Listen to the end users and listen to the front line. When I was in graduate school, I was a scheduler for a very busy endocrinologist. I spent time listening to what the patients wanted even when it was difficult. I found solutions that worked for the patients and the doctors, making the work in the office easier for everyone. I listened and they listened. Even if I can’t give people exactly what they are looking for, being listened to helps smooth out the process of reaching a goal/solution.

Working parents juggle two demanding roles at once, showing up daily for their family and striving to bring their best self to work. Whether the day goes smoothly or gives way to chaos, the ability to bounce back and manage it all is vital for your wellbeing.

• Start with self-compassion: Cut yourself some slack. You won’t always be perfect, and that’s okay. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would show to a friend.
• Build a support network: You don’t have to do everything alone. Identify a friend, family member or neighbor you can lean on, and ask for help before you get overwhelmed.
• Set boundaries: Protect your energy by saying no to non-essential commitments. You can’t be at every event or volunteer for every school function. Choose what matters most and let go of the rest without guilt.
• Take a time-out: When stress builds up, recharge with small breaks. A five-minute walk, deep breathing or a quick call with someone you trust can help you reset with a clearer mind.

Working on social wellbeing

Being a busy parent and professional whose life often revolves around other people’s schedules can sometimes feel isolating. Build a support network of at least two people you can turn to when you need help or a break.

• Choose people who make you feel safe, respected and genuinely listened to, and let them know that you’d like to include them in your support circle.
• Describe the signs that might indicate you’re stressed and how they can best support you.
• Ask for help before you become overwhelmed to prevent a stress snowball.

Financial readiness is a core part of military readiness. When service members feel confident managing their finances, they can focus on the mission, support their families, and prepare for future transitions. Financial stress affects decision‑making, morale, and even security clearances, which means financial wellbeing is directly tied to overall force readiness.

The Department of War (DoW) supports this effort by providing no‑cost financial literacy training and counseling to service members and their families with our Personal Financial Counselor (PFC) Program. Education begins early in a military career and continues through major life events such as relocations, deployments, and marriage. A 2023 DoW survey found that 72 percent of active‑duty members reported fewer financial problems and stronger financial habits than non‑military households, suggesting that consistent financial education is making a meaningful difference.

Building the Foundation

Understanding military compensation is one of the first steps in strengthening financial readiness. Many service members know their base pay but may not fully understand the value of benefits like Basic Allowance for Housing, Basic Allowance for Subsistence, healthcare, and Thrift Savings Plan contributions. Financial counselors help service members see how these pieces fit together and how to use them to support long‑term goals.

Budgeting and savings are equally important. Frequent moves, deployments, and unpredictable schedules create financial challenges for families, especially when military spouses face a 21 percent unemployment rate. A clear monthly spending plan helps service members manage day‑to‑day expenses, and an emergency fund covering three to six months of expenses provides a critical safety net.

Debt and credit management also influence financial readiness. High‑interest debt, predatory lending, and scams can quickly strain finances and affect security clearances. Counselors play a key role in educating service members about responsible borrowing, credit protections, and how to avoid financial pitfalls.

Planning for the Future

Long‑term planning is essential for financial stability. The Thrift Savings Plan offers a tax‑advantaged way to save for retirement, and those under the Blended Retirement System receive matching contributions up to 5 percent. Starting early allows service members to benefit from compounding growth, which can significantly increase retirement savings over time.

Financial counselors support this process through regular check‑ins, workshops, and tools that help service members stay aligned with their goals.

Strategies That Strengthen Financial Readiness

Military financial counselors can make a powerful impact by:

1. Connecting financial readiness to mission readiness. When finances are stable, service members can focus more fully on their duties.
2. Encouraging consistency and celebrating progress. SMART goals help service members stay motivated and accountable.
3. Avoiding information overload. Small, manageable steps lead to lasting financial habits.
4. Building trust through transparency. Clear communication about confidentiality helps service members feel safe sharing challenges.
5. Following up regularly. Life changes quickly, and financial plans should adapt along the way.

A Long‑Term Commitment

Financial readiness is not achieved in a single conversation. It is an ongoing process that evolves with each stage of military life. Military financial counselors empower service members with the tools, resources, and confidence they need to build financial stability that lasts well beyond their time in uniform.

When service members feel secure in their finances, they can focus on their mission, support their families, and plan for the future. Strengthening financial readiness strengthens the force, and the work of financial counselors plays a vital role in that mission.

References:

1. Department of Defense (2025). Financial Literacy and Preparedness Survey Results for the 2023 Status of Forces Survey. Retrieved from https://finred.usalearning.gov/assets/downloads/FINRED-2025-FinancialLiteracy-R.pdf.
2. Kamarck, K. N. (2022). Military Families and Financial Readiness. Defense & Intelligence. Retrieved from https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R46983.
3. Summary of the Thrift Savings Plan (2026). Retrieved from https://www.tsp.gov/publications/tspbk08.pdf?TSP-BK-08.
4. Thrift Savings Plan (2026). Investing Strategies. Retrieved from https://www.tsp.gov/investing-strategies/.
5. S. Department of the Treasury. (2019). Federal Financial Literacy Reform: Coordinating and Improving Financial Literacy Efforts. Retrieved from https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/FFLRCoordinatingImprovingFinancialLiteracyEfforts.pdf.
6. S. Office of Personnel Management (2024). Government-wide Military-Connected Strategic Plan Fiscal Year 2024-2028. Retrieved from https://www.opm.gov/chcoc/transmittals/2024/attachments/FY24-28%20Gwide%20Military-Connected%20Strategic%20Plan%202-27-24.pdf.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know one of our military & family life counselors (MFLCs), Karla E. Sanchez Rivera, MSC, MDiv, LPC. With May being Military Appreciation Month, there’s no better time to get to know Karla!

Continue reading to learn more about Karla:

Describe a typical workday in your life?

I start my day by reviewing my schedule to stay organized and prepared for my clients. I also check my emails and phone to make sure I haven’t missed any messages, calls or voicemails.

Throughout the day, I meet with clients for counseling or consultation. I work with service members and their spouses. Some clients walk into the office while others call to schedule appointments. It is truly an honor to serve through Army Community Service, as well as support members of the Reserve and Puerto Rico Air National Guard.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

I enjoy spending time at home with my family and my pets, playing my guitar and having a good cup of Puerto Rican coffee. I also dedicate part of my time to serving the parish I lead in Puerto Rico, which brings me great joy and purpose.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about their quirky personality traits and share a picture!

I have a very special love for my dogs. It all started in 2012 with my Miniature Schnauzer, Frida, who quickly became the heart of our home. Later, she had a puppy named Luna. About ten years ago, my family and I rescued a beautiful Golden Retriever mix. He has been one of the biggest challenges in my life, as he is a hunting dog who still longs to roam freely and explore the community. Seven years ago, we adopted another mix-breed dog named Estrella. She is shy, gentle and incredibly sweet.

What drew you to Magellan?

I first learned about Magellan around 2020 during the pandemic. At that time my previous company closed and I found myself unemployed. Although I don’t clearly remember the exact moment I applied, I do remember having an interview and thinking to myself, “This is the job I want.”

However, it took some time before that opportunity became a reality. In 2022, I finally received the call, and I said yes without hesitation. I was truly inspired by the mission of the organization and the responsibility that came with the role.

Since September 2022, I have been on this journey, learning and growing both professionally and personally. I feel proud to be part of a great organization and a great team with a clear vision of providing support and caring for our service members and their families.

What do you like best about your current position?

I truly love my job and being part of a strong MFLC team in Puerto Rico. One of the most meaningful aspects of my role is being able to support service members and their families. I value listening with empathy and compassion to their stories, fears, challenges and successes.

It is very rewarding to help bring light into their lives, guide them through their process and support them to improve their wellness. I enjoy helping them recognize their strengths and celebrate their progress and find healthy ways to manage difficulties.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to participate in C-pride, Employee Inclusion Groups (EIGs) and Business Innovation initiatives and to collaborate with leaders who truly demonstrate commitment to the mission.

What is your biggest strength?

I consider myself a people-oriented person who genuinely enjoys connecting with others.

I strive to create a peaceful and welcoming environment wherever I go, especially by listening attentively and offering a warm presence. I believe many people are navigating life without a clear sense of purpose or feeling unheard. Sometimes, what they need most is empathy, respect and someone who is willing to truly listen. I see that as one of my greatest strengths and a calling in the work I do.

Dementia affects millions of individuals in the United States, and the number continues to grow. For military families, veterans, and federal employees, the impact of dementia often unfolds alongside the demands of service, relocation, deployment, or high-stress public service roles. Behind every diagnosis is a caregiver who provides daily support, often without formal training or adequate resources. Nearly 12 million Americans are caring for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias without being compensated, representing an economic value of more than 400 billion dollars. The emotional and physical cost, however, is far more difficult to measure. 

At Magellan Federal, we see the profound physical and emotional impact dementia has not only on those diagnosed but on the caregivers who walk beside them. This includes caregivers across military and federal communities who may already be navigating demanding missions, workforce pressures, or limited access to consistent support. As the population ages, the need to support caregivers becomes a national priority that directly affects family stability, workforce readiness, and long‑term wellbeing. 

The Changing Reality of Dementia Caregiving 

Caregivers today face increasing demands. 30% are 65 or older, 2/3 are women, and 1 in 4 is part of the sandwich generation, caring for both aging parents and children. Among military and federal families, caregiving responsibilities are often layered onto careers that require flexibility, mobility, and sustained performance. Their support allows individuals with dementia to remain at home longer and maintain a sense of dignity and independence. 

Caregiving can strengthen relationships and build resilience, yet it also brings emotional, physical, and financial strain. Compared to caregivers supporting individuals without dementia, dementia caregivers experience nearly double the rate of stress and health challenges. For caregivers in service-oriented environments, these risks can be compounded by operational demands and limited time for self-care. 

The Hidden Toll on Caregivers 

Dementia caregivers often report depression, anxiety, chronic stress, grief, and isolation. Many experience sleep disruption, weakened immune functioning, and increased risk of chronic illness. These challenges can be especially difficult for military families and federal employees who may be managing relocations, deployments, or high responsibility roles while providing care at home. 

The American Medical Association’s Caregiver Health Self‑Assessment Questionnaire highlights early signs of strain, such as irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are signals that caregivers need support, yet many caregivers, particularly those accustomed to prioritizing mission and service, push through until they reach burnout. 

Burnout and Compassion Fatigue 

Burnout reflects emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Compassion fatigue develops when caregivers are repeatedly exposed to the suffering of someone they love. Both conditions can leave caregivers feeling numb, overwhelmed, or disconnected from their sense of purpose. 

These experiences are not personal shortcomings. They are predictable outcomes of a system that relies heavily on unpaid caregiving and limited support structures. For military and federal caregivers, cultural expectations around resilience and self-reliance can further delay help-seeking. 

Supporting Caregivers as Part of the Care System 

Magellan Federal advocates for a holistic approach that recognizes caregivers as essential partners in the dementia care journey. Federal agencies and military-connected systems have a unique opportunity to strengthen caregiver wellbeing across the populations they serve. 

1. Acknowledge the Emotional Experience: Caregivers often feel guilt, grief, fear, and self‑doubt. Understanding the stages of dementia and the changes that come with each stage can help caregivers feel more prepared and less alone. This awareness is especially important in military and federal communities where emotional strain may be underrecognized. Validating their emotions is an important first step. 

1. Strengthen Support Networks: Caregivers benefit from connection. National dementia organizations offer helplines, support groups, respite services, and educational resources that reduce isolation and help caregivers sustain their role over time. Ensuring these resources are accessible regardless of duty location or work schedule is critical for military and federal families. 

1. Prioritize Caregiver Health: Caregivers need routines that support physical and mental wellbeing. Encouraging preventive care, behavioral health support, and caregiver‑friendly policies can reduce burnout and improve long-term outcomes. Workplace flexibility and leadership awareness play a meaningful role in supporting caregivers who are also part of the federal workforce. 

1. Help Families Navigate Dementia Together: Families often struggle to talk about dementia, especially with children. Age‑appropriate resources and guidance can help normalize the experience and build resilience across generations. This support is particularly valuable for military children who may already be adapting to frequent change. 

Why Federal Leadership Matters 

Dementia caregiving is a public health challenge with far-reaching implications. Within military and federal populations, caregiver strain can directly affect readiness, retention, and overall workforce resilience. As the number of individuals living with dementia grows, so will the need for caregivers who are supported, trained, and emotionally equipped for the journey ahead. 

Federal agencies play a critical role in shaping the systems that support these caregivers. By investing in caregiver wellbeing, agencies strengthen workforce readiness, reduce long‑term healthcare costs, and enhance the stability of families who serve the nation. 

Magellan Federal is committed to advancing solutions that build caregiver resilience, expand access to behavioral health resources, and integrate caregiver support into federal programs. The cost of caring is high, but caregivers should not have to carry it alone. 

References:  

• Duke University Population Research Institute. (n.d.). Duke researchers point out error in U.S. estimates of dementia. https://dupri.duke.edu/news-events/news/duke-researchers-point-out-error-us-estimates-dementia  
• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). What is dementia? https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia  
• Alzheimer’s Association. (2025). Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). Dementia caregiver stress. https://www.caregiveraction.org/dementia-caregiver-stress/  

• American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Common problems faced by caregivers. https://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/caregivers/practice-settings/common-problems  

• Health in Aging Foundation. (n.d.). Caregiver self‑assessment questionnaire. https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/caregiver-self-assessment-questionnaire  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). Understanding caregiver burnout. https://www.caregiveraction.org/understanding-caregiver-burnout/  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). 10 tips for family caregivers. https://www.caregiveraction.org/10-tips-family-caregivers/  

• Alzheimer’s.gov. (n.d.). Tips for caregivers. https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/tips-caregivers  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). Caregiver help desk. https://www.caregiveraction.org/helpdesk/  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Alzheimer’s and dementia helpline. https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline  

• Family Caregiver Alliance. (n.d.). Support and resources for caregivers. https://www.caregiver.org/  

• ARCH National Respite Network. (n.d.). Respite provider locator. https://archrespite.org/#  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Support groups. https://www.alz.org/help-support/community/support-groups  

• AlzConnected. (n.d.). Online caregiver community. https://alzconnected.org/  

• Dementia Society of America. (n.d.). Education and resources. https://www.dementiasociety.org/  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Care and education resources. https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/care-education-resources  

• Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. (n.d.). Talking to young children about Alzheimer’s. https://alzfdn.org/talking-to-young-children-about-alzheimers/  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Talking to kids about dementia. https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/kids/talking-kids-about-dementia  

• Oliveros, J. (2018). The Remember Balloons. Simon & Schuster. 

• Fox, M. (1984). Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge. Kane/Miller Book Publishers. 

• Elizabeth, J. (n.d.). Will Grammy Remember Me? (Publisher varies by edition.)