On May 29, 2025, Dr. Nicoletta Tessler, CEO of BeMe Health, led a powerful and engaging 15-minute webinar titled Practice Healthy Social Media Use. Whether you joined us live or are just catching up now, this recap highlights the key takeaways from her thoughtful and timely discussion.

When Is It “Too Much”?

We all know that technology and social media are deeply ingrained in our daily lives. But how do we know when it becomes too much? According to Dr. Tessler, the tipping point is personal, but a useful indicator is when social media starts to interfere with your quality of life, relationships or mental health. She walked us through several signs that it may be time to reassess your usage:

• Diminished Presence: Difficulty staying focused on conversations or activities without checking your phone.
• Mental Health Impact: Increases in anxiety, depression, loneliness or low self-worth triggered by online comparisons or seeking validation.
• Sleep Disruption: Nighttime device use affecting sleep quality and next-day energy.
• Productivity Loss: More time spent consuming content than creating or doing meaningful work.
• Relationship Strain: Loved ones feeling neglected or disconnected because of your screen time.
• Impulse Use: Reaching for your phone out of habit rather than intent.
• Physical Symptoms: Eye strain, poor posture and other device-related discomfort.

If these sound familiar, ask yourself: Is this enhancing or diminishing the life I want to lead? If it’s the latter, it may be time to set some healthier boundaries.

Emotional and Mental Health Impacts

Dr. Tessler emphasized the profound emotional and mental effects of excessive social media use:

• Anxiety and Stress: Constant notifications increase stress and feed the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO).
• Depression: Exposure to idealized, filtered lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
• Loneliness: Virtual overuse often replaces meaningful real-world connection, ironically increasing isolation.
• Low Self-Esteem: Social comparison and the pursuit of online validation can erode internal confidence.
• Cognitive Fatigue: Frequent multitasking and content switching train our brains for distraction, reducing focus and deep thinking.
• Sleep Issues: Late-night screen time disrupts circadian rhythms and melatonin production.
• Emotional Dysregulation: Overexposure to intense content can heighten emotional reactivity or dull it.
• Addictive Patterns: Social media use activates dopamine-driven reward cycles, creating compulsive habits.

So, What Can We Do?

Dr. Tessler offered a multi-part framework for building a healthier relationship with technology.

Set Clear, Intentional Boundaries

• Establish time limits on social media use.
• Create device-free zones, especially in the bedroom.
• Set a tech curfew, and honor it, even on weekends.

• Before picking up your phone, ask yourself: Why am I doing this?
• Avoid grazing on content throughout the day. Schedule your social media time.

• Share your boundaries with others to normalize healthy tech use.
• Be a role model, not just for others, but for yourself.

Make Time for Real Connection

• Schedule regular in-person time with friends and family.
• Use your device to call or FaceTime, not just text.

Focus on What Adds Value

• Try a digital detox—start with 15 minutes, an hour or a day.
• Replace doom-scrolling with meditation or mindfulness apps.

• Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce distractions.
• Rearrange your home screen to hide attention-grabbing icons.

• Unfollow or mute any accounts that don’t make you feel good.
• Audit your tech use weekly or monthly.
• Ask yourself: Is this helping or harming? Make small adjustments as needed.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Start Somewhere… Just, START

Dr. Tessler closed the session with this reminder: The goal is not to eliminate technology, but to become more conscious about how we use it. Here are her parting words of wisdom:

• Recognize early signs. Just like with physical health, mental wellbeing requires proactive care.
• Start somewhere. You don’t need to be perfect, just begin.
• Have self-empathy. You’d be patient with a friend starting something new; be just as kind to yourself.

You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Taking one small step toward better balance is how meaningful change begins.

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

Mind Your Mental Health

During the summer, your mental health can be affected by longer days, oppressive heat and changes in schedules. Here are some ways to keep mentally healthier during those lazy-hazy-crazy days.

• Stay active by going for walks or hikes, or doing yoga outdoors, during the cooler morning hours.
• Make sure you always stay hydrated.
• Sit in the shade and express yourself by writing in a journal. Or read a stimulating book.
• Regularly meet with friends and/or family (in cool locations!) to share insights on what’s going on your life.
• If you’re struggling with an issue such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, substance abuse or relationship problems, reach out to your program for professional assistance.
• Check in on your vulnerable neighbors during heat waves.
• If you’re traveling, make sure to refill your prescriptions in advance.

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

Working on Wellbeing: Working on Career Wellbeing

• Career wellbeing is about finding meaning in the work you do, whether it’s paid or volunteer. It’s easier to feel fulfilled when your tasks align with your strengths and interests.
• Celebrate your successes and the successes of your team. When you find joy in your work, you’ll not only perform better, but you’ll also help boost morale and contribute to a positive, productive work environment.

From childhood to older adulthood, our mental health needs evolve. Understanding and prioritizing what matters most at each stage helps us manage stress, build resilience, maintain meaningful relationships and thrive in daily life.

Children (0-12): Emotional security and healthy attachments

A solid foundation in emotional security helps children build resilience and cope with stress. Secure relationships with caregivers provide stability, trust and emotional regulation. To support this, create a nurturing environment, encourage emotional expression and maintain predictable routines.

Adolescents and young adults (13-25): Identity, social support and coping skills

This is a time of self-discovery, peer influence and independence. It’s also a time of stress as adolescents gain more responsibility and begin to experience greater social and academic pressure. Strong social connections and healthy coping skills can help them manage stress and life transitions. Foster open conversations, encourage self-expression through hobbies and interests, and teach stress management techniques like mindfulness and exercise.

Adults (26-64): Work-life balance and stress management

Careers, relationships and family life can lead to burnout if not properly managed. Set boundaries, maintain supportive relationships, and engage in self-care activities like hobbies and physical activity to promote mental wellbeing.

Older Adults (65+): Social connection and cognitive engagement

Major life changes, like retirement, health issues or loss can lead to increased isolation and depression. Staying socially and mentally engaged supports overall wellbeing and cognitive health. Make time for social interactions and lifelong learning and finding purpose through hobbies or volunteer work.

As we mature and our lives change, taking care of our mental health is key to living a fulfilling life at every stage.

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/Mental-Health-Month for more information and helpful resources.

In today’s workplace environment, employee mental health has emerged as a critical factor affecting organizational performance and success. Digital mental health platforms are increasingly being adopted as effective tools to support employee wellbeing while simultaneously improving business outcomes. Magellan Healthcare’s Digital Emotional Wellbeing Program, powered by NeuroFlow, is a core component of our Employee Assistance Program and a strategic solution that transforms mental health support from a cost center into a productivity driver.

Understanding the Business Impact of Mental Health Challenges

Recent research has revealed the significant economic implications of mental health issues in the workplace:

• The World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion annually in lost productivity (2022)
• Employees working while struggling mentally (presenteeism) experience an average 8% productivity decline (Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2023)
• Healthcare costs for employees with untreated mental health conditions are typically 20% higher (Milliman Research Report, 2020)
• Employee turnover related to burnout and mental health issues costs organizations an estimated $3,000 per employee annually (SHRM/Kronos Study, 2021)

How Digital Mental Health Solutions Are Addressing These Challenges Head-On

Modern digital mental health solutions deliver value across multiple dimensions:

1. Healthcare Cost Reduction – Digital tools that help employees track mood, sleep patterns and pain levels while building coping skills can identify mental health concerns before they escalate. The American Journal of Managed Care has found that early digital interventions can reduce overall healthcare costs by 15-23%.
2. Productivity Improvements – Access to evidence-based relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and stress management tools directly translates to improved performance and reduced absenteeism. A 2023 Deloitte analysis revealed that companies investing in digital mental health resources saw a $4.20 return for every dollar spent through productivity enhancements.
3. Talent Attraction and Retention Benefits – In today’s competitive labor market, organizations that demonstrate commitment to employee wellbeing gain an edge in recruiting and retaining valuable talent. According to Gallup’s 2023 State of the Global Workplace report, 61% of employees consider mental health benefits “very important” when evaluating job opportunities.
4. Privacy and Accessibility Considerations – Effective digital mental health platforms should be HIPAA-compliant and accessible via multiple channels, ensuring all employees can benefit regardless of technology access. Strong confidentiality measures should protect sensitive health information while still providing organizational leaders with anonymized, aggregate insights.

A Strategic Business Decision

Mental health initiatives aren’t simply about compliance or expanding employee benefits—they represent strategic investments that directly impact operational excellence, innovation capacity and organizational resilience.

Investing in digital emotional wellbeing empowers employees to manage stress, build resilience and improve overall mental health—leading to a healthier, more productive workforce. Magellan Healthcare’s Digital Emotional Wellbeing Program, powered by NeuroFlow, offers accessible, evidence-based tools such as digital cognitive behavioral therapy (DCBT), mindfulness techniques and behavior tracking to support employees anytime, anywhere.

With proactive engagement features like gamification, rewards and automated check-ins, employees stay actively involved in their wellbeing journey. Employers also benefit from enterprise-level reporting that highlights workforce wellbeing trends while maintaining confidentiality. Prioritizing emotional wellbeing not only enhances workplace culture but also drives long-term business success.

By implementing comprehensive digital mental health solutions, organizations aren’t just supporting employee wellbeing—they’re making evidence-based investments in their company’s performance and long-term success.

Learn more about Magellan Employer Solutions.

Sources:

• World Health Organization. (2022). Mental Health and Work: Impact, Issues and Good Practices.
• Hemp, P. (2023). “Presenteeism: At Work—But Out of It.” Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 65(3), 252-263.
• Milliman Research Report. (2020). “How do individuals with behavioral health conditions contribute to physical healthcare costs?”
• Society for Human Resource Management & Kronos. (2021). “Employee Burnout: Causes and Cures.”
• Mordecai, D., et al. (2021). “Digital Mental Health Interventions: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis.” American Journal of Managed Care, 27(5), 196-203.
• Deloitte UK. (2023). “Mental health and employers: The case for investment – pandemic and beyond.”
• Gallup. (2023). “State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report.”

Employees spend a significant amount of time at work. When they struggle with personal or professional challenges, their performance, engagement and overall wellbeing can suffer, directly impacting an organization’s success. Organizations that provide counseling services can create a more resilient, productive and healthy workplace.

The business case for employee counseling

When employees have access to mental health support, organizations typically experience:

• Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism.
• Improved workplace productivity.
• Enhanced employee retention.
• Stronger team dynamics.
• Lower healthcare costs.
• Increased employee engagement.
• Better workplace morale.

Counseling can transform lives

Counseling services, such as those provided by Magellan Healthcare, offer employees practical support, education and guidance on various issues. Common challenges include work-related stress and burnout, anxiety and depression, team conflicts, relationship issues, work-life balance struggles, family and parenting difficulties, grief and loss, substance use concerns and sleep problems impacting productivity.

Flexible solutions for today’s workplace

Counseling helps individuals understand challenging issues, learn more about themselves, learn more about how to develop and maintain healthy relationships, develop better coping skills and work toward meaningful solutions. It is essential to offer a variety of convenient formats. Magellan Healthcare’s counseling services are available in-person (i.e., in the client’s local area) or through virtual therapy (provided by BetterHelp) and can be accessed in the following formats:

• Live video sessions – times are scheduled with therapists, and include voice and video.
• Text messaging – therapists provide feedback, insights and guidance based on client messages submitted.
• Live chat – provides the convenience and privacy of messaging but in a “live” interaction that allows instant response and feedback from counselors.
• Live phone sessions – times are scheduled between members and counselors to talk about issues needing attention.

This flexibility ensures that employees can access support without disrupting their work schedules or compromising their privacy.

The path forward

Investing in employee mental health through counseling services demonstrates a commitment to workforce wellbeing. At Magellan Healthcare, we support employees and their household members by providing access to counseling that helps maintain mental health, manage work-related challenges and perform at their best.

Learn more about Magellan Employer Solutions.

On January 21, 2025, Dr. Annetta Davenport, a Certified Employee Assistance Professional and Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, led an engaging 15-minute webinar designed to help participants restore balance and boost their overall wellbeing. This dynamic session, titled Reset Your Energy, offered practical insights into the importance of mental wellbeing, actionable strategies to improve outlook and simple techniques to rediscover positivity in daily life.

Whether you joined us live or are catching up now, this recap will highlight key takeaways from the session, empowering you to regain focus and approach each day with renewed energy and a positive mindset. Let’s dive into how small changes can lead to big transformations!

What is mental wellbeing and why does it matter?

Mental wellbeing is our sense of being present at any moment and is essential for thriving, not just surviving. Thriving supports growth, allowing us to expand our potential, adapt to change and live a meaningful life. Positive feelings like happiness, contentment and hope help us flourish, even when circumstances are challenging. Experts identify three components of mental wellbeing: emotional (our feelings and ability to manage them), psychological (values, sense of self and cognitive functioning), and social (our connections, relationships and sense of belonging). To nurture wellbeing, we can focus on nutrition, quality sleep and mental stimulation to support brain health while choosing positive approaches to challenges.

What are some ways to improve mental wellbeing and build resilience?

To enhance mental wellbeing, it is important to create a plan tailored to you. Start by monitoring your emotions, identifying patterns over time and expanding your emotional vocabulary to better understand your feelings. Next, prioritize regular social engagement—whether one-on-one or in groups—and focus on meaningful interactions by asking open-ended questions to deepen connections. Finally, support brain health through physical activities, mental exercises like puzzles or memory games and other practices that strengthen cognitive functioning. A deliberate approach to emotional awareness, social connection and mental stimulation can foster a balanced and thriving sense of well-being.

As we start a new year, many of us may feel the post-holiday slump or the “winter blues.” What are some simple strategies and techniques to help boost productivity and recharge during this time?

To combat the post-holiday slump or winter blues, one effective technique is using “I statements” to express emotions constructively. For example, saying, “I feel sad about missing the recital, but could you videotape it for me?” shares feelings, identifies their cause and invites social connection for support. Another approach is to focus on what’s working rather than dwelling on challenges. Redirect your energy to solutions and maintain a positive outlook by appreciating the resources and opportunities you already have. By shifting your mindset and engaging others, you can stay motivated and resilient.

What do you do when your natural disposition is that the glass is half empty?

If you tend to see the glass as half empty, forcing positivity isn’t the answer. Instead, start by acknowledging that your feelings are valid – it’s perfectly okay not to be naturally optimistic. Consider working with a counselor who can help you explore these feelings and develop strategies that feel authentic to you. A counselor can help you build skills to manage negative thoughts without pretending they do not exist. Small steps, like simply noticing one neutral thing each day (not even positive, just neutral), can be more helpful than trying to flip a switch to positivity. The goal is not to become a different person or to suddenly become optimistic – it is to develop tools that work for you while honoring who you are.

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

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.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the current political climate, you’re not alone. A national survey suggests more than 60% of registered voters in the U.S. say politics are a significant source of stress, and some even say they’ve lost sleep over it. Over 25% of voters also say politics have sparked conflict among their family and friends. Political stress, anxiety or even anger you may feel over politics can be hard to cope with.

Managing what you can control during election season

These feelings can have a negative impact on your emotional and physical health. Symptoms such as low energy, insomnia, loss of appetite, mood swings and tension are signs that you should not ignore. It is important to recognize what you can and cannot control as the election approaches. You cannot control other people’s opinions, beliefs, reactions or how they express themselves. Nor can you control others’ votes. There are, however, many things you can control during and after the election:

• Limit the amount of time you spend on election news and discussions. While the 24-hour political news cycle on television, radio and the internet is almost impossible to escape, you can limit the amount of time you spend on media each day.
• Be aware of the coverage, feeds and groups you follow. When you are watching or reading election coverage, avoid negative-leaning discussions, especially if you feel frustrated or upset by them.
• Recognize how you interact on social media. Avoid giving angry or emotional responses to posts that do not align with your views. You are unlikely to change other people’s opinions; you are more likely to get unwanted and hostile feedback.
• Focus on the time you spend with people. Prioritize your relationships with positive family and friends. Strong social connections can reduce stress and help you feel happier and more energetic.
• Manage how you deal with stress. Whether it’s meditation, going out in nature, reading a book or working on a hobby, take time to do something that makes you feel good. Get enough sleep and exercise, eat a healthy diet and avoid using alcohol or drugs.
• Stick to your boundaries. Before you enter a conversation, ask yourself if you’re in the emotional headspace to have it. Are you feeling stressed out, on edge or angry? Are you prepared to have a healthy debate or do conversations around this topic tend not to go well? If you feel like you’d be better off not having an election-related conversation, express your boundaries. You could say, “This conversation is really challenging for me, and it’s bringing up a lot of feelings. Can we move on to something else?”
• Take action by using your time and talents. Give your time and skills to a cause you believe in. If you have a strong interest in a political cause or candidate, offer to help with a campaign or other event.

This article is for your information only. It is not meant to give medical advice. It should not be used to replace a visit with a provider. Magellan Health does not endorse other resources that may be mentioned here.

SOURCE: The Jed Foundation