When employees decide to seek help for life’s challenges through their Employee Assistance Program (“EAP”), accessibility and convenience become crucial factors in whether they follow through. Traditional barriers—including scheduling difficulties, travel constraints and privacy concerns—often prevent people from accessing the support they need.

Magellan Healthcare’s EAP provides five different ways to access counseling: in-person, video, phone, text messaging and live chat.

This multi-modal strategy recognizes people with different comfort levels, scheduling constraints, geographic limitations and communication preferences when seeking help. By meeting individuals where they are—whether they prefer the personal connection of face-to-face sessions, the convenience of video calls or the immediate back-and-forth of live chat—organizations help remove critical barriers to entry for EAP services.

This flexibility increases initial engagement and improves ongoing participation, as individuals can seamlessly transition between modalities as their needs evolve or circumstances change. The result is an inclusive, accessible mental health support ecosystem that serves employees and their families more effectively, ultimately leading to better individual outcomes and greater value for the organization.

Offering multiple counseling modalities delivers several key business benefits:

• Increased utilization rates: When employees can access services on their terms, program participation rises by an average of 31% (Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 2023)
• Reduced barriers to entry: 67% of employees who would not pursue traditional therapy report a willingness to use digital mental health services (Harvard Business Review, 2024).
• Enhanced productivity: Access to appropriate mental health support can recover up to 27 productive workdays per employee annually (American Psychological Association, 2024)

For organizations EAP support is not just a benefit—it is a strategic investment with measurable returns. By offering multiple pathways to mental wellness, employers demonstrate commitment to their workforce while protecting their bottom line.

Magellan Healthcare focuses on connecting employees and their families to services that are accessible, responsive and holistic—and helping businesses build the healthy, engaged workforce they need to thrive.

Ready to learn how comprehensive mental health support can benefit your organization? Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/Employers.

On March 27, 2025, Faith Best, LCSW, Director of Clinical Services at NeuroFlow, led an energizing 15-minute webinar, Invest in Rest, exploring the critical role sleep plays in overall wellbeing. This dynamic session offered practical insights to help participants recognize the signs of poor sleep and discover simple, effective strategies to improve bedtime routines.

Whether you joined us live or are catching up now, this recap highlights key takeaways from the session, empowering you to prioritize sleep to improve your daily life and long-term health. Let’s get started!

What is the connection between sleep and mental and physical health?

The importance of sleep cannot be overstated. Approximately one-third of Americans are chronically sleep-deprived, a number that continues to rise as screen time, working hours and stress levels increase. As a result, both the duration and quality of sleep are declining, impacting physical and mental health in expected and unexpected ways.

During sleep, the body undergoes essential maintenance processes that cannot occur while awake. This includes memory consolidation, cognitive processing, immune system strengthening and hormone regulation, including stress hormones.

Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. It can impair brain function, decision-making and reaction time. The fogginess and fatigue from inadequate sleep are well known, and poor sleep has also been shown to increase anxiety and depressive symptoms. This can create a vicious cycle where heightened stress and low mood further disrupt sleep, worsening overall mental health.

A recent study by NeuroFlow found that deteriorating sleep was even associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation. Sleep deprivation can feel torturous, and its effects on the body and mind are profound. Prioritizing sleep is essential for overall wellbeing.

What are some ways to improve sleep quality if getting more hours of sleep isn’t an option?

When it’s time to sleep, the mind can start racing, or restlessness can make it difficult to relax and take advantage of the time available. Here are two techniques—one focused on the mind and one on the body—that can help improve relaxation and sleep.

The first technique is called “worry time.” It’s common for anxious thoughts to surface at bedtime, even if they do not appear throughout the day. A proven method to reduce nighttime worry is to schedule a specific time to focus on those thoughts during the day. Choosing a consistent time, such as during a commute or another daily routine, can help. Setting a reminder can also reinforce this habit. During that scheduled time, allow worries to come, acknowledge them, and reflect on them. Then, if those thoughts arise at night, it becomes easier to remind the mind that time has already been set aside for them, reducing their intrusion at bedtime.

The second technique is progressive muscle relaxation, which helps the body release tension before sleep. Even when lying down, muscles may remain tense due to stress, pain or habitual posture. This method involves consciously relaxing different muscle groups one at a time. Starting from the toes and moving upward, tense each muscle group for a few seconds while inhaling, then release the tension while exhaling. Continuing this process through the entire body can significantly improve relaxation. For those new to the technique, guided videos can be found online to walk through the process. This practice not only helps relax the body but also serves as a mindfulness technique, increasing awareness of physical sensations and creating a sense of calm that prepares the body and mind for restful sleep.

How can I calm down for bed, so I wake up rested?

Many adults expect to easily fall asleep after a long day of working, parenting, watching TV or scrolling through social media. However, just like children benefit from a bedtime routine, adults also need a way to transition into restful sleep.

Consistency is one of the most important factors in quality sleep. While it’s widely known that seven to nine hours of sleep per night is recommended, the consistency and quality of that sleep are just as crucial. A regular bedtime and wake-up time help the body establish a rhythm, allowing it to function optimally.

Building a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation is key. Just as children wind down with a bath or bedtime story, adults can incorporate activities that calm the mind and body. This could include progressive muscle relaxation, stretching or other relaxation methods that work best for individual needs.

For those who experience discomfort, such as back or hip pain, incorporating a short stretching routine before bed can be beneficial. A simple 10-minute stretch can not only relieve physical tension but also help signal to the mind that it’s time to unwind. When a routine becomes a habit, the body begins to recognize the cues and prepares for sleep more effectively.

Preparing the mind for sleep is just as important as preparing the body. Activities like journaling, meditation or scheduling time to process thoughts can help clear the mind before bed. Writing down worries or reflections can create a sense of closure for the day, making it easier to relax.

Keeping routines as simple as possible increases the likelihood of sticking to them. Mobile applications can be valuable tools for guiding activities like stretching or relaxation, eliminating the burden of planning your next steps. The NeuroFlow app is particularly effective, offering guided videos for yoga, meditation and breathing exercises to support relaxation. For those seeking structured sleep improvement techniques, digital cognitive behavioral therapy programs like Magellan Healthcare’s Restore provides step-by-step guidance, including proven techniques and exercises designed to improve sleep quality. Finding the right tools to simplify and support a sleep routine can make all the difference in achieving restful, restorative sleep.

How does technology like screen time impact our ability to get quality rest and what can we do to minimize its quality?

Many apps and videos are designed to be engaging and stimulating, encouraging continued use rather than promoting relaxation. This can make it more difficult to fall asleep. The most effective approach is to avoid screens for about 30 to 60 minutes before bed. Utilizing phone settings to limit notifications or restrict access to certain apps can help minimize distractions and reduce the temptation to use screens at bedtime.

The connection between sleep and both mental and physical health is undeniable. Quality sleep is essential for the body to perform vital maintenance processes, from cognitive functioning to immune support and stress regulation. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a range of serious health issues, both physically and mentally, including heart disease, impaired brain function and mood disorders like anxiety and depression. While factors such as stress and screen time may disrupt sleep, there are strategies to improve both the quantity and quality of rest. Techniques like “worry time” and progressive muscle relaxation, along with consistent bedtime routines, can significantly enhance relaxation and readiness for sleep. Reducing screen time before bed further supports this process. Prioritizing and improving sleep habits is an investment in overall wellbeing, making it essential to incorporate restful practices into daily life for better health outcomes.

If you missed the Magellan Minute, listen to the recording here.

Source: CDC

Observed during the third full week of March (March 16-22), National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week aims to inspire dialogue and offer education about the science of drug use and addiction. A number of surprising facts illustrate the seriousness of the issue today.

• Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance and the third most common cause of death in the U.S. Although legal, alcohol kills over 95,150 Americans each year.
• Thirteen is the average age at which children experiment with drugs.
• An estimated 60% of poor work performance can be tied to drug or alcohol use.
• 138 million Americans age 12 and over drink alcohol, and 20.4% of them have an alcohol use disorder.
• Common reactions to substance use include needing to consume more to get the same effect; substance dependency; painful withdrawal symptoms; high blood pressure and stroke; problems with the liver and pancreas; development of certain cancers; loss of motivation; depression and anxiety.

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh or call your program for confidential mental health resources.

Physical wellbeing: tips for maintaining a health body.

• Keep your physical wellbeing high on your priority list—it’s a foundation for thriving in all areas of life!
• Pay attention to how you feel and make adjustments as needed—rest when you’re tired and move when you’re restless.

Whether we believe in the concept of self-esteem or not, it is clear that feeling good about ourselves contributes to overall well-being. High self-esteem is associated with positive emotions, strong relationships, and a sense of purpose. Conversely, low self-esteem can lead to negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. So, how can you stay on the good side of the self-esteem ledger?

• Remember your “wins.” Remind yourself of the remarkable things you have done, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Know that you can succeed again!
• Always build a better you. As you examine your vision for the future, keep developing positive habits that help you achieve those desires. You’ll experience personal growth, plus meet your goals and achieve new heights.
• Wield compliments well. When someone praises you for your qualities or a job well done, fully accept those thanks and pass them on to help others feel good as well. Positivity is contagious!
• Don’t seek perfection. Remember that everyone makes mistakes sometimes. Pick yourself back up and keep pursuing your goals. They’re worth it!

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh or call you program for confidential mental health resources.

Emotional wellbeing: An essential element of resilience

Here are some strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing and adapt to change:

• Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help you stay present and reduce stress.
• Set realistic goals. Break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps.
• Prioritize self-care. Make time for activities you enjoy, such as hobbies, exercise or spending time in nature.

With the start of a new year, it helps to assess not only your physical health but your mental wellbeing, too. Mental wellbeing serves as a foundation for all your activities, and it is important to get your thoughts and emotions pointed in a positive direction.

• Check in with yourself. If the recent holidays have left you feeling mentally conflicted or rattled, confide in a supportive loved one or a mental health professional. You are not alone!
• Get a gratitude start. While it is easier to spot the negative aspects of life, do not forget to make note of the great gifts you have each day—health, family, friendships, purpose, appreciation of nature and more.
• Ramp up self-care, particularly during stressful times. To unplug from stress, decrease your screen time, get outdoor exercise and spend time with loved ones.
• Take a trip. The bleak midwinter can sometimes be a drag. So, schedule a long weekend away where you take in new sights and sounds. This refreshment is great for your mental wellbeing!

Emotional wellbeing: Managing your emotions.

Your ability to handle daily life and major life events is heavily influenced by your emotional wellbeing. Thus, it is important to find ways to keep your emotions on as even a keel as possible. When confronted with uncertainty, know that you have been resilient before and can use the tools of resilience again to minimize your levels of stress and anxiety.

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh or call your program for confidential mental
health resources.

BIPOC Mental Health Month is focused on raising awareness about the unique challenges and mental health disparities that may affect Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) not just in July, but all year long. Despite growing recognition of mental health issues across the country, some in the BIPOC community continue to grapple with misconceptions that can sometimes lead to stigma and inadequate support. Addressing these misconceptions can help to ensure that all communities have access to the care and support they need.

In this Q&A, Magellan’s Mary Hinson, Ph.D. LCMHCS, a counselor with the Military and Family Life Counselor program, shares four misconceptions about mental health in the BIPOC community.

Q: Why is BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month important?

Dr. Mary Hinson: There are several reasons this month is a BIG deal! But here are a few… First, by talking about mental health, it makes it less of a taboo. This month also spotlights mental health challenges specific to BIPOC communities.  Which in turn allows for advocacy for culturally sensitive care and draws attention to unequal access to mental health services.

Q: What are some misconceptions about mental health in BIPOC communities that need to be addressed?

Dr. Hinson:

• Thinking mental health issues mean you’re weak in some way (this stems from societal stigma and misconceptions about the nature of mental illness.)
• Assuming therapy’s only for people who are “touched” (ignores the wide range of benefits therapy can offer to people dealing with everyday stresses and life challenges.)
• Believing you should keep mental health problems hush-hush in the family (reflects cultural attitudes that prioritize privacy and fear of social judgment over seeking necessary help).
• Thinking old-school healing and modern mental health care are incompatible.

Q: How can individuals raise awareness about BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month within their own circles?

Dr. Hinson:

• Post about BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month on your socials (most people have one, so hit share)
• If you work virtually, you could use a virtual background highlighting this month
• Check out resources to you are prepared to share resources (i.e. the Loveland Foundation, Boris L. Henson Foundation, Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective)
• Start conversations about mental health with your circles.

What role can schools and workplaces play in supporting BIPOC mental health?

• Connect people with mental health resources.
• Train staff on how to be more inclusive.
• Create relaxed spaces where people of various backgrounds can talk about mental health.
• Enacting policies that combat discrimination and promote overall wellness.
• Recognize that all do not accept the term BIPOC either. Lumping all these groups together may suggest that everyone is having the same experience, which is inaccurate. Instead, we can consider referring specifically to the group we refer to.

As we near election day in November, individuals may find themselves grappling with heightened stress and anxiety. However, there are tips and useful resources available to help navigate the election season and maintain one’s mental well-being.

In this Q&A, Magellan’s Mary Walston, LCMHC, a counselor in the Military and Family Life Counselor program, offers practical strategies for mental wellbeing.

Q: What are effective strategies to manage stress and anxiety related to political discussion and news?

Mary Walston:

Limit Exposure by Setting Boundaries: Allocate specific times for checking news and avoid consuming political content right before bed to prevent sleep disturbances. Choose specific times of the day to check news updates. Avoid consuming news first thing in the morning or right before bed. Set a time limit for how long you spend reading or watching news each day (e.g., 30 minutes to an hour).

Curate Sources: Consider using news aggregators to filter the most relevant information. News apps can help filter and summarize the news, presenting the stories without overwhelming detail.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: When you do consume news, focus on it fully rather than multitasking. This helps you process the information better and reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed. After reading or watching the news, take a few minutes to reflect on what you’ve learned and how it makes you feel. Engage in regular mindfulness or meditation practices to center your thoughts and reduce anxiety. Use deep breathing techniques to calm your nervous system when feeling overwhelmed by political news.

Engage in Healthy Distractions such as Hobbies or Interests: Spend time on activities you enjoy, such as reading, gardening, or exercising, to shift your focus away from political stressors. Engage in non-political conversations with friends and family and participate in community activities that bring you joy.

Seek Professional Support: Consider talking to a therapist or counselor if political anxiety is significantly impacting your mental health. Join support groups or online communities where you can share your concerns and learn coping strategies from others facing similar challenges.

Self-Care Practices

Journaling: Use a journal to express your thoughts and emotions, which can be therapeutic and help clarify feelings.

Creative Outlets: Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, writing, or crafting to divert your mind from stress.

Pampering: Take time for self-care activities such as baths, skincare routines, or massages.

Physical Activity

Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activities like walking, running, or any form of exercise that you enjoy. Exercise helps reduce stress and improve mood.

Nature Walks: Spend time outdoors in nature to disconnect from the digital world and relax your mind.

Q: What are some ways to respectfully disengage from political conversations that cause distress?

Walston:

Express Personal Boundaries

Simple Decline: Politely say, “I’d prefer not to discuss politics right now.”

Set Clear Limits: Use statements like, “I understand this is important, but I find these discussions stressful and would rather not engage in them.”

Redirect the Conversation

Change the Subject: Shift to a neutral topic by saying, “Let’s talk about something else. How was your weekend?”

Shared Interests: Bring up a shared interest or hobby to steer the conversation in a different direction.

Acknowledge and Exit

Show Respect: Acknowledge the other person’s viewpoint without engaging further, such as, “I see where you’re coming from, but I need to step away from this conversation.”

Graceful Exit: Excuse yourself from the conversation by saying, “Excuse me, I need to take care of something,” and physically leave the space if possible.

Use Humor

Lighten the Mood: Defuse tension with a lighthearted comment like, “Politics can be heavy. How about we save the world later and talk about something fun?”

Time-Limited Engagement

Set Time Limits: If you feel obligated to engage, set a clear time limit: “I’m okay discussing this for a few minutes, but then I need to move on to other things.”

Scheduled Discussions: Suggest discussing political topics at a later time when you feel more prepared, saying, “Can we talk about this another time?”

The 2024 Summer Olympics are right around the corner! The exciting world of elite sports is often associated with physical prowess, unparalleled dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The world will come together to observe in awe, cheer for their favorite athletes, and be instilled with patriotic pride. We hope that fans will also take a moment to appreciate and support the lives of competitors in the games.

Recent high-profile performers, such as gymnast Simone Biles, skateboarder Rayssa Leal, and sprinter Noah Lyles, have bravely brought to light the significant challenges faced by top athletes. Their nuanced self-awareness and recognition of the ebb and flow on the mental and emotional states we all experience were critical to their safety and wellbeing. This awareness of elite amateur and Olympic athletes is crucial for optimizing their overall performance, long-term health, and wellbeing. Whether you are an athlete or a spectator, it’s important to understand the role that mental health plays in performance.

Understanding Mental Health Awareness in Sports

Mental health awareness refers to an individual’s ability to recognize their current emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It reflects a deep understanding of how we think, feel, and act, influencing how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Wellness is a holistic concept that encompasses physical, mental, and social aspects of health, aiming for a balanced and fulfilling life.

Elite amateur athletes face unique pressures that can affect their mental health awareness and wellness. The intense training schedules, high expectations to perform, and constant public scrutiny can lead to significant stress. The pressure to excel not only comes from personal ambition but also from coaches, sponsors, and fans, which can create an environment where mental health issues are more common than most may realize.

The Impact of Mental Health Practices on Performance

Prioritizing mental health practices is essential for athletes to perform at their best. When athletes are disciplined in their mental practices, they can maintain focus, manage stress effectively, and cultivate sustainable motivation. Confidence elevates and performance excels.

Conversely, poor mental discipline can severely impact an athlete, leading to decreased performance levels, increased risk of injuries, burnout, and/or early retirement. While many athletes may be able to perform at high levels during these challenges, this is often not sustainable and may have long-term detrimental impacts. To combat these challenges, mental resilience, mental skills training, positive support systems, healthy coping mechanisms, and work-life balance are all countermeasures these top-level athletes call upon to maintain mental health.

Common Mental and Emotional Challenges Among Elite Athletes

Continuous high-intensity training and competition can lead to burnout and chronic stress. Symptoms include physical and emotional exhaustion, decreased performance, and a sense of detachment from the sport.

Anxiety and Depression are among the most common mental and emotional challenges faced by elite athletes. High prevalence rates are often linked to the immense pressure to perform, fear of failure, and the struggle to balance personal and professional lives. Symptoms can include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and excessive worry.

Substance Abuse can be a coping mechanism for dealing with stress, pain, and performance anxiety. Unfortunately, it brings long-term consequences, including addiction and severe health problems. Athletes may turn to performance-enhancing drugs, alcohol, or other substances to manage the pressures of competition.

Athletes, particularly those in sports with a focus on appearance, weight, and body composition, may develop eating disorders. The pressure to maintain a certain body image can lead to unhealthy eating habits, negatively affecting both physical and mental health.

Strategies for Promoting Mental Health and Performance

Individual Level

Adopting self-care practices and routines that promote mental health and performance, such as mindfulness meditation, regular physical activity, and adequate rest is critical. Seeking professional help from licensed clinical psychologists or counselors is crucial when dealing with severe mental, emotional, or social challenges.

Team and Organizational Level

Creating a supportive environment within teams and organizations is essential. This can involve implementing mental health policies, providing resources, and fostering open communication about mental health. Encouraging a culture where mental health practices are prioritized can make a significant difference. Preventing and mitigating mental and emotional challenges requires recognizing the nuance of early signs and implementing strategies, often with a multidisciplinary approach.

Community and Public Level

Raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health awareness and practices in sports is vital. The role of media and public figures in promoting mental health practices cannot be underestimated. Public campaigns and educational programs can help change perceptions and encourage athletes to seek help.

Supporting Athletes

The significance of mental health awareness for elite athletes cannot be overstated. Good mental health awareness and discipline is intrinsically linked to peak performance, overall wellbeing, and career longevity. Athletes who prioritize their mental wellbeing often perform better, as they are more likely to adopt best practices to decrease the likelihood that mental and emotional challenges become detrimental to their performances. Their high degree of self-awareness allows them to recognize early signs of mental and emotional challenges and take proactive steps to manage them. These strategies are beneficial for everyone as they go from good to great and explore the bounds of their potential.

Starting with youth sports, we can all play a role in prioritizing mental health initiatives and providing ongoing support and resources to ensure athletes can perform at their best and lead fulfilling lives.

• Leverage and encourage the integration of technology and mental health apps to provide access to resources for athletes while reducing stigma.
• Support the advancements in sports governance that advocate for mental health resources.
• Act with awareness and intention. Observe, engage, and create a culture of open communication.

Encouraging a holistic approach to mental health and wellness will benefit not only the athletes but the entire sports community. As the Olympics commence, let’s commit to being fans with a purpose – appreciating and prioritizing the lives within the games!