Creating inclusive communities where Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) feel a sense of belonging and support is important to their wellbeing. Research shows individuals with strong social connections are 50% more likely to live longer and have a better chance of preventing serious illnesses like heart disease, stroke, dementia, anxiety and depression.

Here are five ways you can connect with BIPOC to cultivate culture, community and connection.           

1. Explore the values, beliefs and traditions of diverse cultures: Exploring BIPOC articles, books, documentaries, cultural museums, languages or cuisines can cultivate respect, empathy and inclusivity.
2. Seek authentic connections: Build meaningful BIPOC relationships by finding common ground, personally and professionally. Genuine cultural connections can emerge from supportive neighboring, discussing shared interests or embracing diverse perspectives to achieve common goals.
3. Engage in community activities: Volunteer to support the BIPOC community by assisting at events or with organizations serving BIPOC populations.
4. Promote services and resources that help BIPOC communities: Sharing information about services, resources and job opportunities online or through personal networks can aid BIPOC communities significantly.
5. Support BIPOC organizations: Strengthen community ties and show commitment to BIPOC concerns by supporting BIPOC organizations. This can include buying from local BIPOC businesses, amplifying their voices on social media and advocating for BIPOC needs in civic forums.

Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive community for all. Every action counts in fostering culture, community, connection and BIPOC wellbeing.

For more information to increase awareness about BIPOC mental health and wellbeing and the importance of recognizing and addressing concerns, visit MagellanHealthcare.com/BIPOC-MH.

SOURCES:

• Human Connection: Why It’s Important I Psych Central
• Social Connection | CDC

If you have ever reached out to a therapist or the community for mental health support, you may relate to the frustration that many individuals feel. The healthcare system is experiencing more demands for access to care, and the mental health industry is no different.

Here are some of the common obstacles to getting mental healthcare:

1. Stigma: Fear of judgment can result in individuals choosing not to seek out help.
2. Cost: Even with insurance coverage, deductibles have risen, and paying out of pocket is challenging for many people.
3. Provider shortage: A shortage of mental health providers in many areas leads to longer wait times for appointments. As a result, individuals may give up on looking for a provider after one or more failed attempts.
4. Time and transportation: Getting to and from appointments is often time-consuming, and many cannot afford to take time away from other personal or work responsibilities. In addition to scheduling conflicts, transportation challenges are also often a barrier to seeking help.
5. Mistrust: Having or knowing someone who has had negative experiences with mental health providers (or healthcare in general) can lead to avoidant behavior.

The EAP as a Mental Health Resource

If you are a federal government employee or are employed by one of the millions of private employers who offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), you are in luck. Your EAP is here to help you overcome these common obstacles by offering free, convenient, and confidential mental health support.

Magellan Federal partners with 296 federal agencies to offer a comprehensive EAP that includes short- term soluition-focused counseling services. We continuously work with our clients and providers to eliminate the barriers associated with accessing mental healthcare. We collaborate across various teams and contract agreements to provide resources and quick, reliable care. Here’s how we break down the barriers to mental healthcare.

• Referrals are always voluntary and confidential, easing the stigma and fear of coming forward for help.
• EAP provides free counseling sessions with no co-pay or deductible.
• Many EAPs offer a variety of virtual counseling options, which reduce delays in appointment scheduling.
• Employees can often schedule directly with an EAP provider at their convenience, either via the website’s online scheduling links or through a find-help function .
• The Magellan Federal EAP call center answers calls in less than 30 seconds, eliminating the frustration of being transferred or put on hold.
• The call center is staffed with clinical experts who remove any guesswork and connect the caller with appropriate referrals and resources.
• The employer EAP website provides current information and provides reliable resources.
• When requested by a manager, health and wellness presentations are readily available to promote self-awareness and self-care and introduce individuals to available services.
• Virtual counseling sessions reduce transportation and scheduling conflicts. This modality can also decrease the stigma some people may feel if seen walking into a counselor’s office.
• EAP services often promote coping skills, resiliency, and resource use. These skills may lessen or prevent a mental health crisis in the future.

The Magellan Federal EAP eliminates common challenges associated with accessing mental health support and continues to implement new operations that improve care. Consider using your EAP as an alternative to paying out of pocket for quality mental health services. Your well-being—and wallet—will thank you!

Resources

• Exploring Barriers to Mental Health Care in the U.S. | Research and Action Institute (aamcresearchinstitute.org), y Hemangi Modi, former Analyst, AAMC Research and Action Institute; Kendal Orgera, MPH, MPP, Senior Research Analyst, AAMC Research and Action Institute; and Atul Grover, MD, PhD, Executive Director, AAMC Research and Action Institute.
• Study Reveals Lack of Access as Root Cause for Mental Health Crisis in America – National Council for Mental Wellbeing (thenationalcouncil.org), National Council for Wellbeing

As our understanding of soldier wellness evolves, it’s clear that a comprehensive approach is essential. In today’s military landscape, physical fitness alone isn’t enough – mental toughness is equally crucial. The U.S. Army Combatives Program serves as a prime platform to nurture this mental resilience, offering Soldiers a pathway to peak performance both on and off the battlefield.

The U.S. Army Combatives Program, which includes hand-to-hand combat training, offers a valuable avenue to promote mental well-being and overall performance among soldiers. Beyond its traditional role in honing physical combat skills, this program has evolved to encompass a broader mission – one that emphasizes the cultivation of mental resilience as a cornerstone of soldier effectiveness.

Building Mental Resilience

The benefit of combat sports is that they cultivate mental toughness like no other. Soldiers are pushed to their limits, not just physically but mentally, fostering adaptability, perseverance, and a steadfast attitude in the face of adversity. Studies, such as those published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, underscore combat sports’ profound impact on enhancing mental toughness – a cornerstone of soldier effectiveness in high-stress environments.

Fostering Unity within Units

Engaging in combat sports brings Soldiers together uniquely and intensely. It strengthens team members’ bonds, trust, and camaraderie, enhancing unit cohesion and morale. A 2020 study in the Journal of Military, Veteran, and Family Health found that Soldiers who participated in combatives training reported higher levels of cohesion and teamwork – vital components for mission success.

Providing an Outlet for Frustration and Stress

The rigors of military life often lead to pent-up frustration and stress. The Combatives Program provides Soldiers with a constructive outlet to channel these emotions. By engaging in controlled physical exertion, soldiers can mitigate stress and avoid detrimental coping mechanisms. Studies, such as those in the Journal of Military Psychology, affirm the therapeutic benefits of combat sports in stress management among military personnel.

Integration of Mental Performance Consultants

To unlock the full potential of combative training, the integration of mental performance consultants is paramount. Thes specialists offer soldiers cognitive tools and strategies to optimize their performance in combat and everyday life. From stress management to enhancing focus and resilience, mental performance consultants provide a holistic approach to soldier wellness.

Improving Decision-Making Under Stress

In high-stakes scenarios, split-second decisions can mean the difference between success and failure. Research in Military Psychology underscores how combat sports improve decision-making under stress. Mental performance consultants further refine this skill, equipping soldiers with the mental fortitude to think critically and act decisively in the heat of battle.

Enhancing Recovery and Resilience

Injuries and setbacks are a part of military life, and mental resilience is crucial for recovery. Mental performance consultants can guide soldiers in maintaining a positive mindset during rehabilitation, reducing the psychological impact of injuries, and facilitating a quicker return to peak performance. The U.S. Army Combatives Program offers a wealth of mental benefits essential for Soldier wellness and performance. By fostering mental toughness, unit cohesion, and stress management, this program contributes significantly to Soldier readiness.

Mental health plays an important role in the overall wellbeing of youth. Child behaviors and emotions can change frequently and rapidly, making it difficult for parents and teachers to detect mental, behavioral or emotional concerns right away. Studies find an estimated 70-80% of children with mental health disorders go without care.

How can you nurture the mental health of your child?

Consider the following strategies to support your child’s mental wellbeing:

1. Be intentional and attuned. Beyond just paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, actively engage in open communication with your child. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Additionally, educate yourself about typical developmental stages and common mental health concerns in youth, so you can better identify when your child might need support.
2. Foster closeness. Building a strong emotional bond with your child involves not only empathy but also active listening and validation of their experiences. Spend quality time together engaging in activities they enjoy and show genuine interest in their hobbies and concerns. By demonstrating unconditional love and acceptance, you’re fostering an environment where they feel valued and understood.
3. Encourage connections. In addition to nurturing relationships within the family, encourage your child to form connections with peers and mentors. Support their participation in extracurricular activities or community events where they can develop social skills and a sense of belonging. Positive social interactions provide a buffer against stress and can enhance resilience in the face of challenges.
4. Model good behavior. As a parent or caregiver, your actions speak louder than words. Model healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress and emotions, such as practicing mindfulness, seeking support from loved ones, and engaging in hobbies or relaxation techniques. By demonstrating how to navigate difficult situations effectively, you’re equipping your child with valuable tools for their own emotional wellbeing.
5. Make healthy choices. Emphasize the importance of self-care and overall wellness by prioritizing healthy habits as a family. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit sugary or processed foods. Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor play, as exercise is linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Establish consistent bedtime routines to ensure adequate sleep, as insufficient rest can exacerbate mental health concerns.

Youth mental health concerns are real, common and treatable. By implementing these strategies, you’re not only fostering a supportive environment for your child’s mental health but also empowering them with the skills and resources needed to navigate life’s challenges effectively.

While some problems are short-lived and don’t need treatment, others are ongoing and may be very serious. If you are concerned about changes in behavior or other symptoms, consult your child’s doctor. Remember, seeking professional help when needed is a sign of strength, and early intervention can make a significant difference in managing mental health concerns.

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources for more mental health information and resources.

Source

• CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH – 2022 National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Report – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

April is recognized as Workplace Violence Awareness Month. Forbes recently published an article entitled, “Workplace Safety And Well-Being On The Decline In 2024, Study Shows.” The article highlighted findings from a new report from the company, Traliant, Fear Factors: A 2024 Employee Survey Report on Workplace Violence, Harassment and Mental Health. According to the report:

• 1 in 4 people interviewed stated they have witnessed workplace violence happening to another employee in the last five years,
• 12% said they had been the target of workplace violence themselves.
• 86% said they either strongly or somewhat agree that employers need to do more to address the mental health needs of employees in the workplace.

In this Q&A, Magellan Healthcare’s Psychologist Advisor Dr. Yasmeen Benjamin provides insights on the connection between workplace violence and mental health awareness and suggestions on how employers can build a culture of safety.

Q: How does workplace violence awareness intersect with mental health awareness in the workplace?

Dr. Yasmeen Benjamin: A sense of safety is considered a basic human need in order for us to thrive in our daily lives. Given that we spend the majority of our time in the work environment, work environments must value safety, establish a set of expectations and policies around safety, and consistently reinforce these policies in order to provide a sense of safety for its workers.

Q: How can workplaces create a culture of safety and prevention to mitigate the risk of violence in the workplace?

Dr. Benjamin: The culture of safety should be imbedded within the values of the organization, as our actions tend to follow our value system.

Examples of safety-specific actions that would follow this value system are:

• Trainings
• Having ongoing discussions about the importance of building a culture of safety
• Directly and publicly addressing issues of workplace violence when they occur

Additionally, I’m a huge believer that prevention starts with an ability to assess. What is the propensity for violence given individual, social, and environmental factors? Are trends changing and how does one adjust and become more informed as a result of the trends?

Q: What are some common mental health challenges that employees may face as a result of workplace violence or other workplace stressors?

Dr. Benjamin: When safety is lacking, we can see an increase in stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and job dissatisfaction (in the form of absenteeism, tardiness, and high turnover rates). In the instance of workplace violence, people can go on to develop conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder as well as other conditions. It is important to note that all of these symptoms and conditions are treatable with the right supports, resources, and interventions. It is also important to keep in mind, that generally speaking, the longer one is exposed to stressors, the longer symptoms can persist once the stressor is removed.

Q: What resources and support services should employers provide to promote mental well-being among employees?

Dr. Benjamin: It is important that we continue to take steps to make discussions surrounding mental health less taboo while respecting individual privacy. I highly suggest employees utilize insurance resources to access the mental healthcare that is available to them. Also, consider accessing wellness resources such as gym membership discounts and meditation/mindfulness app discounts. As best as we can (with a recognition that life can be extremely busy) it’s important to build and maintain healthy self-care habits. These types of habits can be instrumental when combating work-related and life-related stressors.

Q: Are there specific strategies or initiatives that employers can implement during Workplace Violence Awareness Month to promote mental health awareness and support?

Dr. Benjamin: Bringing attention to the topic is an important start. Hopefully, articles like this spark the type of assessment that I mentioned earlier and lead readers to include a personal assessment of their own mental health status and wellness practices.

Magellan Federal is the premier provider of Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services for military members, federal workers, and their families. EAPs provide interventions for a myriad of problems that impact employee well-being and productivity. With more than 30 years of EAP experience and covering over 1.2M families with our services, we wanted to offer innovations and insight into our unique approach in serving Federal employees, and how EAPs are evolving to serve the modern workforce.

What is an EAP?

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) have played a crucial role in the lives of many employees. EAPs are offered by employers to help employees deal with stressful situations in their life and work. EAPs often include free and confidential counseling, legal and financial information and resources, work/life solutions, and telephonic health coaching. EAP services are free, available to employees and household members, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are many reasons why employees may contact the EAP services: for example, employees may need help with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship marital conflicts, parenting and children, grief and loss, job stress, substance use, and balancing work/life lifestyles.

Trends in EAP

The workplace has evolved significantly in the last few years, and as a result, EAPs are changing to serve the ever-evolving work landscape. Here are a few of the trends we are seeing.

Holistic Wellbeing

Employee Assistance Programs have continuously evolved due to the modern dynamics that employees face in their daily lives. EAPs traditionally offered services that improved employees’ physical, emotional, and mental health. In modern times, EAPs have extended their services to providing financial planning assistance, fitness programs, parenting and children advice, grief and loss, and marital conflicts. EAPs have adopted a holistic approach where employees’ life issues are thoroughly dealt with. The improved EAP services have positively impacted the lives of many employees facing various challenges in life.

Digital Transformation

Due to the ever-evolving technological landscape, people use multiple means of technology to gain access to knowledge and get help in every aspect of their lives. EAPs often adopt virtual counseling, wellness apps, online resources, and telehealth services to help employees anytime, regardless of their location. Digital transformation has enabled employees who work in remote areas to acquire the help they need when they visit EAP centers physically.

Mental Health Focus

There is a growing need to address the issue of employees’ mental health in the workplace. Employees are exposed to various challenges in their workplace and lives. Employers have embraced personalized intervention programs, such as mental wellness education and resilience programs, that address employees’ mental health. Employees are encouraged to enroll in these programs to get the care they deserve. EAPs can greatly emphasize employees’ mental health, thus improving their effectiveness.

To comprehensively support employee mental health, EAPs are evolving their care to mental health by creating awareness that mental illness is real and that it can be dealt with. EAPs can provide education on the issue of mental illness, help organizations normalize conversations about mental illness, and help organizations create a supportive culture to address mental health among employees. EAPs can help reduce the stigmatization of people, heal from mental health issues, and empower them to recover swiftly and continue with their duties at their workplaces.

Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

As employers prioritize hiring individuals from different cultural backgrounds, EAPs strive to tailor their programs to accommodate different backgrounds. Employees from diverse backgrounds have unique problems that need personalized assistance rather than a general approach to helping them. EAPs are becoming more inclusive by offering assistance in multiple languages and addressing the cultural challenges that might be bothering employees.

Work/Life Integration

EAPs are critical in assisting employees with proper work/life balance. Employers constantly adapt to factors that reduce workloads and ensure employees have a sustainable work/life balance. EAPs can assist organizations in continuing to foster a proper work/life balance by helping employees manage their tasks effectively. EAPs are putting a focus on ensuring that employees refrain from draining their energy on one side of work/life and leaving the other unattended. By doing this, EAPs will contribute to employee satisfaction and well-being.

Data Analytics and Personalization

Different age sets and age groups have unique needs and preferences on how they should be assisted. A successful EAP should delve into understanding these preferences and helping the employees.

Employees have unique problems depending on what is happening in their lives. EAPs can tailor their efforts to match the various needs of employees. Through data collection and analysis, EAPs can get insights into employee demographics and preferences and tailor their services to meet their needs. By leveraging feedback from employees, EAPs can enhance treatment programs.

Innovations from Magellan Federal

With our extensive EAP experience, Magellan understands how robust, effective EAP services can impact a participant’s health and happiness. Here are some innovations we have implemented in our EAP program to assist today’s modern workers.

Remote Work Initiative

During COVID-19, employees were forced to work from home to avoid spreading the contagious disease. Despite the shift of the locations where they would work, these employees found themselves facing the same life issues that they had been facing while working physically at their workplace. Magellan Federal sought to address the well-being of employees by extending their services through secured digital platforms. We partnered with various employers who had their employees working from home to assist them and increase their awareness of the program’s services. The remote work initiative by Magellan Federal was received well by employers, governmental agencies, and labor unions. Feedback suggested that employee morale and productivity levels were high and that many employees who suffered from mental health had their issues solved by the company’s experts.

Holistic Wellbeing

We know that employees’ well-being does not cover only their physical, mental, and emotional well-being but also other components that ensure that they operate well in life and at the workplace. Magellan Federal collaborates with service providers to address diverse employee issues to improve their lives. Magellan Federal’s EAP offers unique guidance searches for financial and legal services. We understand that the current economic trends can be challenging to maintain, especially due to the harsh nature of inflation and fluctuation of product prices. Magellan offers personalized assistance to individuals depending on their income status and financial ability. We are also establishing a clinical-first model that will employ additional specialized experts, increasing our service effectiveness to employees. We believe it’s important for EAPs to attend to the diverse needs of employees, promoting a holistic approach to the overall well-being.

Digital Transformation

Magellan Federal understands the critical use of technology to deliver employee services in today’s digital world. Our EAP services are delivered via secured virtual meeting spaces and telehealth services to meet the needs of our customers 24/7. Consumers today want help at their fingertips. A significant feature of our success is a live chat that is available on our EAP member portal. The chat assists employees in maneuvering difficulties they are currently experiencing and does not delay the support needed at the time, thus reducing the chance of developing adverse effects of an issue to employees. We understand that in today’s workforce, it is important to continue to provide digital innovations as technologies change.

Mental Health Resilience Program

Magellan Health partnered with several health and statistics companies, such as Gallup and Sharp Health, to gain data and help employers and organizations address the mental health of their employees. From this data, we developed a comprehensive Mental Health Resilience Program, which included workshops and online seminars to help address employee concerns. Organizations that enrolled their employees in the program gave feedback on improved mental wellness and increased employee productivity.

Adapting to Individual Needs

Magellan Federal addresses demographic issues by collaborating with industry employers to understand the various demographics of their employees. We use employee data to help our clients give the proper guidance to their employees that supports the demographic makeup of their workforce. We also employ experts who are constantly researching the various problems faced by employees from diverse demographic groups, thus offering personalized care instead of generalized care.

Ensuring Accessibility and Engagement

In our experience, some employees are hesitant to take the first step to seek assistance from EAPs. Despite the availability of numerous EAPs, employees find it difficult to reach out for help due to fear of stigma and lack of awareness. Magellan Federal has extended its services from a traditional phone call or employer access to offering services through various digital platforms that do not need assistance and are confidential. We have multiple avenues to provide support, encouraging ease of access for those seeking help and personalized assistance. We also provide our clients with engagement guidance and materials to raise awareness with their employees of the existence of EAP services and the variety of support available.

Delivering a Successful EAP

Employee wellness should be thoroughly addressed to increase workplace productivity and give employees a good work experience. EAPs should analyze market trends like digital transformations, work/life integration, proactive mental approaches, and cultural diversity to address the issues of mental illnesses among employees. EAPs should also foster collaboration with organizations and employers to get insights on how they can handle the various problems of employees from different backgrounds.

I’m proud of Magellan’s commitment to continuous EAP innovation. We are always striving to improve our services so employers can successfully help employees deal with work/life issues. At the end of the day, the goal of an EAP is to empower workers with tools and resources to support their overall well-being, and if they become more productive and satisfied with their careers along the way, we’ve done our job well.

References:

• Baskar, K., Shinde, E. M. B., & Srinivasan, D. A. (2021). Promoting mental well-being through employee assistance programs. NHRD Network Journal, 14(1), 64-82. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/2631454120979764
• Chellam, N., & Divya, D (2022). The effect of promoting mental health through employee assistance programs. Journal of Education, Society & Multiculturalism, 3(2), 48-60. https://sciendo.com/pdf/10.2478/jesm-2022-0017
• Gallup, Inc. (2021, December 3). Magellan Health and Gallup team up to measure and increase well-being. Gallup.com. https://www.gallup.com/357767/magellan-health-gallup-team-measure-increase-wellbeing.aspx

The National Football League’s 58^th Annual Super Bowl ended with a winning team and fans who might be recovering from a tough season. Whether you’re an athlete or a fan watching sporting events in person or at home, the competitive nature of sports can be both exhilarating and heart-wrenching. However, what happens when the passion felt for the game triggers emotions such as sadness or depression? In this interview with Magellan Federal’s Performance Coaching Manager Meg Helf, M.S., CMPC®, we explore the concept known as “sports fan depression.”

What is Sports Fan Depression and is it a real diagnosis?

Meg Helf: Although Sports Fan Depression is not an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), many of us are all too familiar with the emotional rollercoaster that comes along with being a fan. Reactions to any number of life events can linger and develop into diagnosable depression, prolonged grief disorder, or an adjustment disorder with depressed mood. Just as we experience grief with the loss of a relationship or a loved one, a job or an opportunity, we may experience grief at the end of a season or when our favorite team comes up short.

For sports fans, acute grief is that initial intense feeling after a loss takes place. This may manifest in a range of complex feelings such as sadness, anger, frustration, and disappointment, which often isn’t discussed in the context of sport. When this grief is experienced for extended periods of time and starts to impact our daily functioning (e.g., work, eating habits, sleep, relationships), we might be experiencing what many call Sports Fan Depression.

What is it about sports that can trigger this feeling?

Helf: There are several reasons that sports can trigger these feelings. Fans make emotional, psychological, physical, and sometimes financial investments in their teams. There are a plethora of ways that sports can impact our wellbeing: sports can be integral to one’s identity, sports can drive our daily activities, and, sports have the ability to create communities and develop relationships.

The more someone identifies with their team the stronger they may feel loss about the outcome of the game or result of the season. These events can feel like a blow to our personal identity when we have a sense of pride and belonging. Despite superstitions and lucky shirts, socks, and routines, fans have a lack of influence and impact on the outcome of the game. This may set many up with unrealistic expectations and add a sense of helplessness. A player on the field has the ability to distinguish what went well, identify what they and the team need to develop, and maintain a future focused growth mindset regardless of the outcome. With less control, it is understandable that fans struggle with optimism because they cannot take any action to make the desired change.

For some, being a fan is a part-time (or full-time!) job. Between watching games, competing in fantasy leagues, and researching statistics, our daily lives are filled with something that we are passionate about. Similarly to how some marathon runners experience the “post-race blues,” when a season is over, we may feel a loss for all the time we invested and feel like a large part of our daily excitement and activities are missing. As the season comes to a close, that taste of the adrenaline, tension, energy and anticipation of each game fades and may leave us wanting.

Fans also rarely go it alone. Our favorite team has the ability to connect people, both friends and strangers alike. Fans connect across time zones for draft parties and engage in banter through fantasy leagues, spend hours tailgating before a game, and gather for watch parties. Families strengthen bonds, adorning newborns in gear and creating traditions. Strangers high-five. They hug. They share food, drinks and handwarmers. Even opposing fans engage in playful banter and share stories. Entire cities come together to support their team. We win together. We lose together. And when the season is over, we are losing these opportunities for such a meaningful part of life – connection to others.

How can someone identify if they suffer from this condition?

Helf: A couple of symptoms experienced with depression are diminished interest or pleasure in activities, depressed mood, significant unintentional weight gain or loss, insomnia or sleeping too much, fatigue or loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, and diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness. Prolonged grief symptoms are intense emotional pain, loss of identity, difficulty moving on with life, emotional numbness, feeling that life is meaningless, and intense loneliness.

Individuals should build self-awareness about the intensity and duration of their symptoms, and the impact they have on their daily lives. Tap into your thoughts. Are they pervasive? Is the loss of the game bleeding over to other areas of your life? Be purposeful with your next steps and be on the alert for destructive or non-productive patterns that may not help you (e.g., alcohol, adrenaline/thrill seeking, substance abuse, risk-taking).

What are steps someone should take if they believe they have Sports Fan Depression?

Helf:

• Make some intentional time to mourn the loss and build self-awareness of when intrusive thoughts creep in so you can shift to more productive, optimistic style thinking.
• Expand your identity – who are you outside of being a loyal, avid fan?
• Develop and maintain healthy habits – make time to move your body, prioritize healthy eating, hydration, and sleep. These habits are always crucial, but especially helpful for individuals who are struggling.
• Cultivate connections with others – reconnect with your fellow fans in a different context and develop new communities. Diversify your portfolio on interests and discover activities that generate positive emotions and engagement.
• Unplug from your fandom. Clear your head and provide an opportunity to get a little emotional distance from the season. Taking time for yourself will sow benefits for you and those around you. If the post-season funk stays around for longer than 2-4 weeks, find a professional to talk to or take a depression screen.

It’s important to understand that it is perfectly natural to have emotional highs and lows when you are so connected and invested with a specific sports team. Just because you experience some grief, sadness, or disappointment does not mean you have depression. It is typical to have reactions when any season changes and normal to reset your compass.

Perhaps consider why you watch sports in the first place. Is it the appreciation of athletic prowess? The comradery and connection with others? Pride in your town? Understanding what is most important to you can help you squeeze every ounce of enjoyment and excitement out of the game, while arming you with strategies to cultivate your wellbeing.

For more information on depression screenings and tips on wellness, please check out: The Journey to Wellness: Do I need a Depression Screening?

And remember…there is always next season!

Resources

Online screens and helplines: 

• Anxiety & Depression Association of America: (1)
• The Reach Institute (2)
• Mental Health America (16)
• Veteran’s Administration (17)
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
• NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-6264

This article was co-written by David Michael 

Imagine yourself arriving at an airport, getting your ticket, checking your bags, and then heading to security. What if you arrived at the security checkpoint and there was no one there? No screening, no questions or checking your tickets… On the one hand, you might be relieved, and on the other hand, you might be more concerned about your flight! Safety screening has become a regular part of our lives. The screening is brief, systematic, and designed to maintain safety for airline passengers. But what if it was optional?

The Importance of Depression Screenings

There are many optional health screenings that we know to be beneficial and yet we still try to avoid them … everything from annual exams to the blood pressure cuff machine in the pharmacy. Screenings seem to have gotten a “bad rap.” A health screen is designed to be a preliminary tool for providing information at pivotal points when interventions may be crucial.

Learning that depression is more unpredictable and widespread than once thought can produce mixed emotions that reflect on how one conceptualizes depression and its many levels and possible stigma. Depression affects everyone differently; it might surface in the life of someone who has been diagnosed or it may emerge in someone who looks like they have it all together. It is known that most people will face depressed feelings at some point in their life. Life circumstance is bound to “throw a curve ball” and offer the personal support system an opportunity to employ coping skills and reflexive responses to tough situations.

Why get screened for depression?

Here are some ‘Depression Flags’ or Indicators that combined, provide a “road map” recommendation towards further care: (2) (3)

• You have been through a series of tough events or situations and cannot seem to get back to feeling normal again.
• You cannot remember the last time that you felt happy.
• You are irritable and feel down a lot.
• Intrusive negative thinking.
• Change in appetite.
• Change in sleep patterns.
• Change in energy level or motivation.
• Lowered ability to concentrate.
• Change in daily behavior or moods.
• Increased irritability, feelings of helplessness or hopelessness.
• Lowered self-esteem.
• Thoughts about suicide or a desire to have life over with.
• Social withdrawal or isolation.
• Refusals by a child for normal activities such as social gatherings, foods, school attendance.
• For Children: A regression in skills already gained and increased need for reassurances.
• For Teens getting into trouble, concerning behavior changes, or self-harm.
• For Men: irritability, tiredness, anger
• For Women: sadness, worthlessness, guilt.

How to Get a Depression Screening

• Most medical providers or pediatricians will offer a basic depression screen when needed or requested during an office visit.
• Local mental health professionals offer screenings with an office appointment or intake process and can follow up with therapeutic interventions as needed.
• Online screens and helplines:
• Anxiety & Depression Association of America: (1)
• The Reach Institute (2)
• Mental Health America (16)
• Veteran’s Administration (17)
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
• NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-6264

Tips for Your Wellness Journey

Assemble a Care Team:

• Bring the Guide: A medical professional can provide a depression screening and can also screen for another underlying medical condition exhibiting symptoms of depression, as well as a discussion of the possibility of vitamins and supplement use to balance any deficiencies. A wellness coach, naturopath, chiropractor, or other medical professional can also be consulted. A good first step for support would be to check with the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provided through your employer for available mental health services.
• Phone a Friend: Talk to a mental health provider, Chaplain, or someone you trust about your inner thoughts and feelings who will offer loving encouragement. Looking for ways to reduce isolation and increase connectedness can be an important step toward wellness.

Bounce Toward Wellness: (13)

• Discover Yourself: Journal your thoughts and feelings to help you get to the bottom of what is bothering you. You may want to discuss this with a trusted professional as old losses or traumas can accumulate and catch up to the one who feels they are well within the rear-view mirror. This can feel overwhelming or like having a lingering ‘emotional cold’ draining your resources.
• Eat Smart: Consuming quality protein and fruits and veggies improves the gut and brain’s ability to provide the neurochemicals needed for feelings of wellness. Junk food and low-nutrient foods increase feelings of depression or low mood in most people. While fast food seems easy, it is the rougher road in the long run. Hydration and taking deep breaths can help your brain have what it needs to perform and calm.
• Pump the Breaks: A daily and weekly break from stress through recreation, creativity, reading, athletics, or other restorative activities can help the body regenerate. Too much stress can produce other physical maladies and drain your emotional and physical batteries. Limiting your schedule can help you regain balance during a stressful time.
• Power Down and Reboot: To drain the body is to drain the mind. Sleep, exercise, and movement increases self-esteem and the immune system almost immediately; the lack of which can produce other urgent issues. While joining a gym might be ideal, even a minimal hour of ping-pong a week or a 10 minute walk a day can have a positive effect on mood and body. Depressed feelings often follow a weary body.
• Screen the Screens: Limit use of devices and time on social media as these influences can contribute to isolation and low self-esteem through comparison, especially at night. Melatonin, which is needed to help one sleep, is depleted with blue light used in devices and the light used can trick the brain into thinking it is time to be awake. Limiting parental screentime and finding ways for family connection through games, conversation, or activities can help kids feel less isolated and more connected providing some protection from depressed moods for all.
• Avoid the Mud: Negative thoughts get one stuck in a negative mind frame. Positive self-talk and optimistic thinking can go a long way to help reduce depressed feelings as evidence of the corresponding relationship between negative thinking and depression. Though it might feel difficult, finding something good in a situation can break up the mire to help one move in the right direction toward wellness. Follow the rule of thumb of thinking and speaking kind thoughts and words to oneself just like a good friend would do. Finding positive and meaningful ways to celebrate wins, whether big or little, can add fuel to the journey.
• Embrace Your Natural State (15): Stimulants and depressants, and other mood-altering substances (even immoderate use of alcohol, sugar, and caffeine) can be addictive, impact the gut, and worsen feelings of unwellness. Alcohol can worsen depressed feelings and interfere with sleep as it turns to sugar in the bloodstream.
• Pack the Jams: Positive or upbeat music and media can go a long way to lighten the mood and lighten thoughts; conversely sad or negative music or media should be used with caution.
• Believe: Research points to many benefits of praying and the belief that there is a purpose to life, a Higher Power and that one is loved. A return to one’s faith and values can help that purpose and meaning to be rediscovered. (13)

Benefits of a Depression Screening

Ultimately, a depression screening is not mandatory like airport security. It is brief, systematized and can be a good measure of your current state so that you can make the best decision for your wellness. At a minimum, it is designed to give you a ‘snapshot’ of your current resources and your ability to find balance. It can offer some perspective for what might be needed to manage feelings and what kind of support would be best suited to help.

The late Jimmy Buffet’s last song, “Bubbles Up” (12) written during a time of great challenge, reminds the one who is under water to follow the air bubbles as they float to the surface to help re-orient oneself and find the exit where life, air, and light reside. It is a metaphor for life when facing a challenge as negative thoughts are intimately tied to negative feelings and increase feelings of overwhelm. Focusing on the positive can be a necessary lifeline for one who feels life is dark and confusing.

A valley of depressed feelings is not the destination. Regardless of which road brought you or a loved one to it, life does not have to be lived there. With some help and support, one may find themselves on a journey to self-discovery, healing, and hope.

References and Resources:

Depression Screens:

1. https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzoWE2f3PgQMVEYvCCB2aEACeEAAYASAAEgJUKfD_BwE
2. https://thereachinstitute.org/reach-and-adaa-anxiety-in-children-and-teens/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzoWE2f3PgQMVEYvCCB2aEACeEAAYAiAAEgJwYfD_BwE
3. https://www.mhanational.org/national-depression-screening-day
4. https://adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/ask-and-learn/screenings/screening-depression
5. https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/depression-screening

Other References and Resources

6. https://adaa.org/
7. https://thereachinstitute.org/
8. https://mhanational.org/
9. https://mentalhealth.va.gov
10. https://www.samhsa.gov
11. https://www.nami.org
12. https://youtu.be/6j3jDTOG7yI?si=eJQ4Qa5YHlLBcVI_
13. https://www.amenclinics.com/
14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9713100/
15. “The Godfather | Plot, Cast, Oscars, & Facts | Britannica”. www.britannica.com. Retrieved December 31, 2021.
16. Mental Health America. https://mhanational.org/
17. Veteran’s Administration https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/