Each year, many Americans suffer from different mental health conditions, like Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety Disorders. Some seek help, while others deal with the negative symptoms alone. Stigma, mistrust, misinformation, fear, or socioeconomic status can prevent us from seeking help.

Addressing these negative symptoms is very important. They can affect several aspects of our lives, including work, social interactions, and personal relations.

Here are some important facts about mental health:

• In 2020, 21% of U.S. adults (52.9 million) experienced a mental health condition. ¹
• Due to COVID-19, the number of anxiety and depressive disorders grew worldwide. Depressive symptoms grew from about 193 million people to 246 million worldwide. This represents an increase of 28% in cases. Anxiety disorders grew from 298 million to 374 million, close to a 25% increase. ¹
• In the U.S., young adults ages 18 to 25 have the highest rate of experiencing mental health conditions (30.6%). They are followed by those ages 26 to 49 (25.3%) and adults ages 50 and over (14.5%).¹

Every year, Mental Illness Awareness Week occurs in the United States during the first week of October. During this week, various organizations come together to promote activities about mental health. This campaign aims to raise public awareness about mental health issues in support of individuals and families. While the week has passed, the importance of bringing awareness to this topic remains year-round.

Activities take place to increase understanding and support for those living with mental illness. The education and resources provided during this week can reduce stigma and other factors preventing us from seeking help.

These activities can include:

• Educational Events: Workshops, seminars, conferences, and informational sessions. They provide information about mental health conditions, treatment options, and strategies for managing mental health challenges. ² (NAMI | National Institute of Mental Health)
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Mental health organizations often launch public awareness campaigns using various mediums to share stories, statistics, and information related to mental health. These include social media, posters, and online content. ² (S. Department of Health and Human Services)
• Community Outreach: Local events, support groups, and community discussions are often organized to foster understanding and support among individuals, families, and communities affected by mental illness. ² (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
• Advocacy Efforts: During this week, advocacy groups champion improved mental health services, insurance coverage, and policies that support individuals with mental health conditions. ² (NAMI | National Alliance on Mental Health)
• Media Coverage: Media outlets may cover stories related to mental health, including personal stories of recovery, interviews with mental health professionals, and discussions about the importance of mental health awareness. ² (SAMHSA | Mental Illness Awareness Week)
• Sharing Personal Stories: Individuals who have lived experiences with mental illness may share their stories to help and inspire others to seek help. ² (S. Department of Veterans Affairs | Mental Health)

We can all participate in these activities every month to learn more about mental health topics, help raise awareness, lower judgment, and be mindful of others experiencing mental health challenges.

Look out for what Magellan Federal has to offer on this topic!

¹ Mental Health Statistics. (2023, March 9). Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/mental-health-statistics/#:~:text=Worldwide%3A%20Due%20to%20the%20COVID.

² Mental Illness Awareness Week | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). Nami.org. https://nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Illness-Awareness-Week.

For more than 80 years, organizations have turned to employee assistance professionals to support their employees and people leaders dealing with issues that threaten personal wellbeing or hinder workplace productivity. Today’s most trusted expert is the Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), who is multifaceted and has a sharp focus on the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) core technology to guide their work. Here’s how and why Magellan believes obtaining a CEAP certification can benefit your professional development and help organizations receive top-tier EAP services.

What Makes Employee Assistance Professionals Unique

Fostering employee engagement and wellbeing is associated with a positive workplace culture, helps retain and attract talented employees, and contributes to higher productivity. Employer organizations have long relied on the unique blend of expertise possessed by experienced Employee Assistance (EA) professionals to support and advance their programs. Skilled EA professionals are knowledgeable in organizational culture, mental health, workplace policy, program promotion, and crisis management. They possess the ability to interact with and support all levels of the organization.

On any given day, EA professionals intervene with individual employees and family members in managing life’s challenges; furnishing opportunities for people leader development; conducting program promotion activities; and addressing organizational impacts such as preventing and coping with workplace violence, critical incident support, and crisis management. Unlike other helping professionals who often play a client–advocate role, EA professionals recognize and are bound by the principle of their dual-client relationship and maintain neutrality as well as confidentiality. EA professionals’ distinct expertise and adherence to the dual-client philosophy sets them apart from other types of helping professionals.

The Value of CEAP Certification

The Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) certification is the only EA professional credential that demonstrates mastery of the concepts and skills required by competent EA professionals. CEAP certification is a recognizable commitment to excellence and demonstrates the EA professional’s unique body of knowledge and alignment with the EAP core technology.

Voluntary certification establishes professional credibility by demonstrating the following:

• Observance of quality and industry standards
• Well-trained in your area of expertise
• Commitment to continuous professional development
• Personal drive and motivation to excel in the Employee Assistance profession

The CEAP certification process provides an evaluation of existing knowledge and skills while concurrently providing professional development. The required knowledge modules cover essential EAP components, updated industry information, exposure to international EAP, policy issues along with relevant legal issues, EAP clinical assessments, marketing, training, supervision, and program management for EAPs.

The CEAP is the gold standard in the field of employee assistance. It is the only credential that confirms proficiency in the concepts and skills required by competent EA professionals, and it is why Magellan Federal seeks to hire professionals with this designation and offer free certification for our staff. We believe that the CEAP empowers our professionals to provide exceptional EAP services to the government, our ultimate goal.

How to Become a CEAP

There are multiple pathways to becoming a CEAP, depending on your education and work experience. Many CEAPs are masters-level counselors, but there are other roles in the EA profession that do not require a counseling degree. For example, account executives, program managers, human resource professionals, and union stewards benefit from CEAP certification in their roles.  All candidates seeking initial certification should visit the Employee Assistance Professional Association (EAPA) website for more information.

The opioid epidemic is a significant public health problem in the United States. In 2021, over 75% of drug overdose deaths involved an opioid.[1] Between 2010 to 2019, drug overdose mortality rates have increased by 53% among U.S. military veterans.4 Opioids include prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids. About 150 individuals die each day from synthetic opioids. 2

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that has been associated with a significant number of overdoses in the U.S. It is considered to be “up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine”; thus, even small amounts of fentanyl can be deadly. 2 Pharmaceutical fentanyl has been prescribed for severe pain after surgery and with medical conditions such as cancer pain. Pharmaceutical fentanyl can be given as a patch, shot, or lozenge. Illegally manufactured fentanyl is found in liquid or powder form and is commonly mixed with other illicit substances or hidden to look like over-the-counter medications. Fentanyl is linked to a high number of overdoses and deaths. Between 2017 and 2021, fentanyl was involved in 52% of overdose cases in the military.5

Combating the Epidemic: Prevention and Treatment

The risk of overdose increases significantly when drugs are contaminated by or combined with fentanyl. Since it is difficult to taste, smell, or see fentanyl in other drugs, an individual may not know that fentanyl is present. Fentanyl test strips, used to detect whether fentanyl has been mixed with another drug, are available and can help prevent overdose. However, caution should be taken since these strips may not detect all forms of fentanyl, including carfentanil.2

Fentanyl is addictive and binds to the body’s opioid receptors in the brain, which control emotions and pain. Like natural opioids, fentanyl’s effects include drowsiness, confusion, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, overdose, and death.3

How to Respond to an Overdose and Stay Informed

Individuals who use opioids as prescribed, those who abuse them, and persons in the general public should be aware of the signs of overdose as life-saving measures, such as halo one, are available. Signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose include small, constricted pinpoint pupils, loss of consciousness, slow or weakened breathing, cold or clammy skin, and discoloration of skin. When encountering someone who has overdosed, contact 911 immediately and administer naloxone when available.2

We recommend that persons using any form of opioids, and those who are likely to have contact with individuals using opioids, carry naloxone, which is now available over the counter and can be obtained at a pharmacy, through mail order, or through community risk reduction programs. Training for administering naloxone and learning about the opioid overdose epidemic is available, and additional information can be found through the VA’s Opioid Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution Program (OEND), state or county health departments, GetNaloxoneNow, the CDC, and the American Red Cross.

The Military Health System and Defense Health Agency provide resources for opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution, including information for patients and caregivers. Additional toolkits and naloxone distribution videos are also provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Resources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Understanding the Opioid Overdoes Epidemic”. Last modified June 17, 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/basics/epidemic.html
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Fentanyl Facts”. Last modified September 6, 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl/index.html
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH). “Fentanyl DrugFacts”. Last modified June 2021. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl#:~:text=Naloxone%20is%20a%20medicine%20that,require%20multiple%20doses%20of%20naloxone
4. Bennett, Alex S et al. “U.S. Military veterans and the opioid overdose crisis: a review of risk factors and prevention efforts.” Annals of medicine 54,1 (2022): 1826-1838. doi:10.1080/07853890.2022.2092896. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9262363/
5. Myers, Meghann. Military Times. “Fentanyl deaths among troops more than doubled from 2017 to 2021”. Last modified February 15, 2023, https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2023/02/15/fentanyl-deaths-among-troops-more-than-doubled-from-2017-to-2021/

While sleep may appear to be a reward or special treat for some, it is a vital biological process that is necessary for optimal functioning.Without proper sleep, the body cannot adequately process new information, create memories, rid itself of toxic waste, restore energy, balance hormone secretion, and repair cells.  Inadequate length and/or quality of sleep can lead to both mental and physical challenges. (Nunez & Lamoreux, 2023)

Our Built In Sleep Cycle

Our master biological clock regulates physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle.  This process is referred to as a circadian rhythm.  Sleeping at night and wakefulness during the day is an example of the circadian rhythm.  Day light alerts the body to send messages to the brain to release hormones that promote attention, awareness, and energy.  Conversely, in the evening, hormones that produce relaxation and sleep are released.  Because the circadian rhythm is deeply rooted in our biological systems, it is difficult to sleep during the day and stay awake at night.  Even when the length of sleep is adequate, frequent awakenings and the absence of deep sleep may occur when one attempts to sleep during the day (Suni & Dimitriu, 2023).

When Life Gets in the Way of Our Built in Sleep Cycle

Individuals who work nights, early mornings, rotating shifts, or irregular hours lose one to four hours of sleep per day, as they experience problems falling asleep and staying asleep (insomnia) during non-work hours (Pacheco & Rehman, 2023). A stressful job such as a police officer (Ma et al., 2015), healthcare worker(Stimpfel, 2020) or active-duty military (Troxel et al.), coupled with non-traditional work hours, compound the problem.  One of the most often reported complaints of military members returning from deployment is a sleep disturbance.

Sleep deprivation and sleep disruption may result in consequences that negatively impact health and day-to-day functioning. Furthermore, there is a bi-directional association between sleep problems and illness, meaning that sleep problems may cause or increase symptoms of illness and illness may cause or increase sleep problems. (Medic, Willie, & Hemeis, 2017).

Short Term consequences of sleep problems consist of but are not limited to:

• Emotional distress
• Mood changes
• Problems with decision making and memory
• Problems in work performance
• Increased negative reactions to stressful situations
• Physical complaints (e.g., low level pain, cold symptoms).
• Weight gain

Potential long term consequences may include:

• Depression and anxiety
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Digestive problems
• Heart conditions
• Diabetes

Tips for Promoting Better Sleep

Many individuals do not have the luxury of changing jobs or life circumstances to resolve sleep problems.  But there some simple things you can do to increase the probability of better sleep even if your daily waking/sleeping routines are not synchronized with your natural circadian rhythm (Shriane, Rigney Ferguson, 2022).

Try making simple modifications to your daily schedule.  Some of the ideas listed below may fit better into your lifestyle than others, and some may be more effective for you than others (Suni & Dimitriu, 2023; Lammers-van der Holst et al., 2020; health.mil., 2023).

• Before sleeping, set your thermostat to a cool temperature (no higher than 68 degrees).
• Wear sunglasses on your way home from working a night shift if you plan to sleep when you arrive home. Sunlight tells your body it is time to wake up.
• Block out as much light as possible using dark shades on windows, eye masks, and turning off computers that may be emitting light.
• Block out as much noise as possible. Turn off TVs and other mobile devices, close doors, and use ear plugs.
• Spend a few minutes winding down and clearing your mind before trying to sleep.
• Avoid caffeine (coffee and energy drinks), and nicotine (cigarettes) at least 6 hours before trying to sleep.
• Avoid alcohol intake. Even though alcohol has a calming effect, it negatively impacts the quality of sleep.
• If possible, take prescribed medications at times when side effects, such as stimulating effects) won’t interfere with sleep.
• Be careful with over the counter supplements. Melatonin, a popular supplement may actually worsen sleep problems if taken at the wrong time or wrong dose.  Seek out a sleep professional for advice before using it.
• Do not eat a large meal immediately prior to sleep. The work involved in digestion may reduce sleep quality.
• Moderate exercise relieves muscle tension and promotes relaxation. Several hours before attempting to sleep, move around and stretch.

If you experience challenges falling or staying asleep for a prolonged period, and your sleep problems are causing distress and problems with daily functioning, contact your health care provider.  Sleep problems may signify other health issues.  Your health care provider can explore and address the root causes with you, suggest options that may reduce sleeping challenges, and help you get back on track.

References

Health.mil. (n.d.). Sleep Tips for Sift Workers.  https://www.health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Centers-of-Excellence/Psychological-Health-Center-of-Excellence/Real-Warriors-Campaign/Articles/Sleep-Tips-for-Shift-Workers

Lammers-van der Holst, H. M., Murphy, A. S., Wise, J., & Duffy, J. F. (2020). Sleep tips for shift workers in the time of pandemic. Southwest J Pulm Crit Care., 20(4), 128–130. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7189699/

Ma, C.C., Andrew, M.E., Fekedulegn, D., Gu, J.K., Hartley, T.A., Charles, L.E., Violanti, J.M., & Burchfiel, C.M. (2015) Shift work and occupational stress in police officers.  Safety and Health at Work, 6(1) 25-29. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4372186/

Medic, G., Wille, M, Hemels, ME.  (2017) Short- and long-term health consequences of sleep disruption.  Nature and Science of Sleep.  9, 151-161. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5449130/

Nunez, K & Lamoreuz, K.  (2023) What is the purpose of sleep? https://www.healthline.com/health/why-do-we-sleep

Pacheco, D. & Rehman, A.  (2023) Shift work disorder. What it is, what causes it, and its potential complications.   https://www.sleepfoundation.org/shift-work-disorder

Sleep Health Foundation. (2023). Healthy sleep practices for shift workers. https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/?view=article&id=1141:healthy-sleep-practices-for-shift-workers&catid=98

Stimpfel, A.W. (2020) Shift work and sleep disruption: Implications for nurses’ health.  American Nurse.  https://www.myamericannurse.com/shift-work-and-sleep-disruption-implications-for-nurses-health/

Suni, E. & Dimitriu, A.  (2023). Circadian rhythm.  What it is, what shapes it, and why it’s fundamental to getting quality sleep.   https://www.sleepfoundation.org/circadian-rhythm

Troxel, W.M., Shih, R.A., Pedersen, E.R., Geyer, L., Fisher, M.P. Fisher, Griffin, B.A., Haas, A.C., Kurz, J., Steinberg, P.S. (2015). Sleep in the military: Promoting healthy sleep among U.S. servicemembers. Rand Health Quarterly, 5(2), 19. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR739.html

Although 21% of U.S. adults have a mental illness, access to behavioral healthcare remains out of reach for most. From 2008 to 2019, the number of adults with any mental illness increased nearly 30%. The pandemic further exacerbated mental health problems for adults and sparked an expanding youth mental health crisis. As the demand for behavioral healthcare continues to grow, Magellan Healthcare recognizes the need to increase access.

Increasing Access to Evidence-based Care

Magellan has collaborated with NeuroFlow, an award-winning behavioral health technology company, to increase access to our evidence-based digital cognitive behavioral therapy (DCBT) programs and enhance engagement. With a history of over 20 years of research and development and an endorsement from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Magellan’s DCBT programs are integral components of our Digital Emotional Wellbeing program, including FearFighter® for anxiety, panic and phobia and MoodCalmer for depression. Both programs, as well as RESTORE® for insomnia and other difficulties sleeping, are available online in Spanish, further increasing access to evidence-based programs.

Understanding Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term intervention that behavioral health clinicians use to help individuals overcome negative thoughts and behaviors. CBT is effective for depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective in certain conditions as other forms of therapy or psychiatric medications. Digital CBT (DCBT) is the implementation of CBT on a digital platform with the same core principles, language and exercises used in live practice that include:

• Learning to recognize thought distortions
• Evaluating distortions against reality
• Gaining a better understanding of others’ behavior and motivations
• Using problem-solving skills
• Developing a greater confidence in one’s own abilities
• Changing behavioral patterns
• Developing coping skills

True evidence-based DCBT follows the exact CBT process, differing from evidence-informed digital programs that use some CBT practices but are not built with fidelity to the intervention model. Learn more about evidence-based vs. evidence-informed behavioral health interventions here.

Impact of FearFighter and MoodCalmer on Mental Health

Our collaboration with NeuroFlow has yielded remarkable outcomes that underscore the power of innovative partnerships. In a recent study, members participating in the Digital Emotional Wellbeing program who completed 75% or more of FearFighter and MoodCalmer reported significant reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms within 90 days.

• FearFighter users experienced a 41% average reduction in Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7) scores, compared to other DCBT users who averaged an 11% reduction in GAD-7 scores.
• MoodCalmer users experienced a 24% average reduction in Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scores, compared to an average 13% reduction among those who completed less of the program.

Beyond these impressive results, Magellan has seen a 124% increase in registrations after launching Digital Emotional Wellbeing over previous programs. Members also report high levels of satisfaction with the Digital Emotional Wellbeing program with 85% indicating they would recommend the program to someone else.

Visit Magellanhealthcare.com/digital-bh/ to learn more about the results and how our Digital Emotional Wellbeing program, including our award-winning DCBT programs improve anxiety, depression and more.

Sources:

• Exploring Barriers to Mental Health Care in the U.S. | AAMC
• What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? (apa.org)
• Satiani A, Niedermier J, Satiani B, Svendsen DP. Projected Workforce of Psychiatrists in the United States: A Population Analysis. Psychiatr Serv. 2018 Jun 1;69(6):710-713. doi: 10.1176/appi.ps.201700344. Epub 2018 Mar 15. PMID: 29540118.

FearFighter® and MoodCalmer are owned by CCBT Limited Corporation, United Kingdom. CCBT has granted Magellan exclusive rights to FearFighter® and MoodCalmer in the U.S.

Retirement is often seen as a time to relax, enjoy hobbies and spend time with loved ones. However, for many older adults, it can also be a time of loneliness and isolation. According to a study by the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, 34% of older adults felt a lack of companionship and 27% felt isolated from others during the past year.

Chronic loneliness can have detrimental effects on older adults’ physical wellbeing, mental health and life expectancy. It can even shorten life expectancy more than being overweight or sedentary, and as much as smoking. Older adults may also feel lonely as a result of health problems. For example, an older adult who has hearing loss or mobility concerns may find it difficult to interact with others socially.

Having meaningful social connections and frequent interactions may help alleviate loneliness. The seven tips below can help older adults stay connected and engaged during retirement.

• Staying connected with family and friends—Family and friends are an essential source of support and social interaction. Older adults should try to stay connected with loved ones, whether through phone calls, video chats or in-person visits. Planning regular activities or outings with family and friends can help keep relationships strong and prevent feelings of loneliness.
• Engaging with religious groups—Religious communities often offer a supportive and inclusive environment where older adults can connect with individuals who share similar values and beliefs. Many religious groups also attract people from different age groups, creating opportunities for intergenerational connections, mentorship and the sharing of wisdom and experiences.
• Joining a community group or club—Whether it’s a book club, gardening group or volunteering organization, becoming a part of a community group or club with similar interests is a great way for older adults to connect with others and build relationships while pursuing interests.
• Learning something new—Retirement provides more time to explore new hobbies and interests. Taking a class, attending a workshop or joining a discussion group are fun ways for older adults to learn something new and pass the time, and a great way to meet new people.
• Volunteering—There are many opportunities for older adults to volunteer, whether it’s at a local food bank, hospital or animal shelter. Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. And it’s a great way for older adults to give back to the community while building social connections.
• Joining a home visiting program—These programs connect older adults with compassionate volunteers who provide regular companionship, meaningful conversations and support. By welcoming friendly faces into their homes, older adults can alleviate isolation, foster new friendships and create a fulfilling support network.
• Embracing technology—Technology provides many opportunities for social connection and interaction. Older adults can use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and NextDoor to stay in touch with family and friends, as well as online communities like Meetup to find groups and events based on interests.

When loneliness becomes too much

If feelings of loneliness persist and begin to impact older adults’ overall wellbeing, seeking professional help may be necessary. Mental health professionals can provide older adults support and guidance on coping strategies and techniques for managing loneliness.

Retirement can be a fulfilling and enjoyable time for older adults, but it can also come with feelings of loneliness and isolation. Utilizing these tips can help older adults stay connected, engaged and maintain good mental health during this new phase of life.

Magellan Healthcare Older Adult Assistance

At Magellan, we understand the unique challenges older adults may face during retirement. That’s why we offer our Older Adult Assistance program. This program is designed to provide older adults the relationships and resources they need to thrive during retirement. Visit here to learn more about our Older Adult Assistance program.

Source:

• Loneliness and Health | National Poll on Healthy Aging (healthaging.poll.org)

Human connection is critical to improving performance and overall wellbeing in a sustainable way. This topic is the focus of the upcoming Magellan Federal webinar on Wednesday, July 19^th. Leaders are encouraged to join Magellan Federal’s cognitive performance coaches for the webinar, Human Connection: Creating Conditions for Thriving Individuals & Organizations, to understand the indicators of thriving conditions, how connection drives those conditions, and learn strategies to help you implement them in your daily life.

Event panelists for this informative webinar included Dr. Jon Metzler, Senior Director of Human Performance; E. Kruise, Cognitive Performance Specialist; and Meg Helf, Cognitive Performance Specialist.

Read the Q&A below for a few insights from our experts on human connection and wellbeing.

Q: Why do we need human connection? What are the benefits?

E. Kruise: Our brains are literally wired to connect and need connection for survival. Our brains will alert us when our need for connection is threatened. When we experience social pain our brains fire in the same way as when we experience physical pain, alerting us of the threat of disconnection. Just as pain alerts us when we are physically injured. When we are experiencing disconnection, we move into self-preservation mode and become self-focused; we are more likely in this mode to perceive others and the world around as threatening. As a result, we reinforce our feelings of disconnection. Furthermore, when we feel lonely, our sleep is impacted, our health is impacted. Loneliness increases our odds of an early death more than obesity, excessive drinking, or smoking 15 cigarettes a day. When we feel connected or a sense of belonging, we not only improve our own personal well-being and performance, but we also increase group cohesion, creativity, innovation, and the well-being and performance of the entire team.

Q: What are a few ways to create conditions for thriving individuals?

Meg Helf:

• Self-awareness of our mindsets and how our bodies operate is a first step in understanding that other people, with different backgrounds and upbringings, hold different mindsets, and their bodies may have learned to operate differently. This deep inner self-work takes time.
• At a baseline, prioritizing a culture of connection. Creating a sense of belonging by truly seeing each other. We can do this by approaching others with patience, curiosity, generosity, and vulnerability.
• Model Humility and Curiosity – Demonstrate situational humility. Identify and share where you have gaps in knowledge, skills, or abilities. Share your areas of development and plan. Ask for help. Ask a lot of questions about others’ challenges, ideas, concerns, and feedback.
• Encourage and praise Input and Initiative – Acknowledge and appreciate questions, ideas, concerns, or challenges shared by people. Encourage everyone to share. Praise an individual’s willingness to assess and then act independently on tasks or projects.
• Provide vision and the “why” – Paint a clear picture of what success looks like. Emphasize purpose, what’s at stake, why it matters, and for whom. When people are able to connect their values and purpose to the task, goal, or project, we see an increase in motivation. Keep the purpose top of mind, discuss, and ask for clarity if uncertain.
• Seek and provide effective feedback – Provide caring, direct, and honest feedback in a timely and consistent manner. Ask for caring, direct, and honest feedback and model effectively accepting that feedback. This demonstrates that we care about each other’s success and believe in their abilities.

Q: What are the signs that there is a thriving organizational condition within the workplace?

Kruise:

• People value other’s unique interests, skill sets and abilities. In turn, people feel valued and a sense of belonging. They are empowered to bring their full authentic self.
• People take risks because they are not afraid to fail. Failure is only an opportunity to grow, get better, produce a stronger solution, etc.
• People speak up, share, and challenge each other.
• People listen to and tune into others, not just what they are saying, but also how others are feeling.
• People are taking initiative, proactive, present in the moment, and emotionally interested in their tasks.

Q: In May, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory calling loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection a public health crisis calling it a “Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation.” Do you agree or disagree that this is a public health crisis? Why?

Helf: Absolutely! Although the recent COVID pandemic has brought the awareness of isolation and loneliness into the spotlight, levels of social connection have been declining for decades. Our need as social beings is innate and ingrained in our fabric. Our ability to support each other and work together is what has made the advancement of our society possible. Mother Nature has made the bet that the best thing for our brains to do, at any given moment, is to see the world socially.

Unfortunately, various changes within our society have changed the way we develop and maintain relationships, how often we engage in meaningful connections, and with whom. Unlike the sensations of hunger, thirst, and pain, which alert us that our bodies need food, water, or care for injuries, many individuals are not as attuned to or aware of the sensations of social pain. Social pain is a real pain, alerting us that social connection is missing. Social pain literally appears on brain imaging the same as physical pain. Many of us, however, may not intuitively connect what we are feeling to the social disconnection that is driving us. Even if we are aware of our social disconnection, there is still a stigma around loneliness and may be difficult for individuals to discuss openly. Furthermore, when we experience social isolation and loneliness for long periods of time, we see a diminished ability to foster what we need most: deep meaningful connections. Social disconnection causes real changes to our brains and bodies. These changes manifest in our performance, health, cognitive functioning, longevity, and wellbeing. We, as a culture and community, need to prioritize connection at work, in our communities, and at home to reorient to what makes us function at our best: connection to other people.

Q: How does a lack of connectivity negatively impact wellbeing and productivity in the workplace?

Helf: When we don’t feel a true sense of belonging, we hide our authentic selves, we create a filter for our behavior. This impression management leads to hesitation. Instead of sharing ideas and asking questions, our focus is directed toward how we should act based on how we think we will be perceived. A culture of holding back leads to less efficiency, less innovation, and diminished performance.

Kruise: A lack of connection in the workplace increases the likelihood of individuals operating in self-preservation, or at least self-interest, mode. Thus, people are more focused on themselves and more likely to perceive what is going on around them as negative or a threat. This can lead to more conflict, less growth and development, less creativity and innovation, less collaboration, and ultimately performance suffers.

Q: Who would you benefit from attending this upcoming webinar and why?

Jon Metzler: Everyone! The concepts and strategies we discuss can be leveraged at any level of an organization in any environment or at home, with our families, hobbies, sports, activities, and social lives.

Click here to watch the replay of the July 19^th webinar.

Resources:

•  Human Connection_Creating Conditions for Thriving Individuals & Organizations.pdf
•  Human Connection_Thriving Organizational Conditions_Magellan Federal.pdf

This article was originally published on MFed and written by Tristen Wendland, MS, LPC.

When you hear the acronym PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) most think of combat war veterans.  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a fairly new term.  In WWI and WWII it was referred to as shell shock or combat fatigue.  The term was developed in the 1970s after the Vietnam war when servicemembers returned with similar symptoms.  It wasn’t until 1980 that the American Psychiatric Association officially recognized it as a disorder.

According to the National Institute for Mental Health, it is estimated that around 6-7% of the US population will deal with some PTSD in their lifetime.  According to Department of Veterans Affairs, Woman are at higher risk at 8% compared to Men at 4%.   PTSD can be related to natural disaster, a serious accident, terrorist attacks, mass shootings, combat, sexual assault, or other types of violent assault.

While working for Department of Veterans affairs I had the opportunity to work with many combat veterans over my career.  One comes to mind.  He was a young Army veteran who worked in EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal).  During his time in the US Army, he was deployed 3 times.  During his last deployment he was injured during a mission when a bomb he was defusing exploded leaving him permanently disfigured and without the use his dominate arm.  After 8 years of skin grafts, multiple surgeries, and ongoing therapy he was ready to discuss returning to school and work.  He applied for Vocational Readiness and Employment through Department of Veterans Affairs CH31 program, and I was assigned his case.  We started off slowly with him only taking 1 class at a time.  Working up to part time school in person was a challenge.  The physical scars on his face and mangled arm were hard to miss.  Over the 5 years that I worked with him I saw him succeed and fail and celebrated his achievements and milestones and encouraged him when he stumbled.  Often having to take breaks when he stubbled back.  What I learned from him is that the will and want to work and succeed is 90% of the battle for people with emotional scars.  His goal was never to be who he was previously but to be who he is today.  A better version of himself who can feel satisfaction from employment even at a part time level.  Success was self-determined, and not dictated by a 40-hour work week or paycheck.

So, when it comes to employment what is the impact on your workforce?  According to the American Psychologic Society, the symptoms of PTSD sometimes cause significant distress for many individuals.  It impacts their social and occupational participation to a degree that is significant.  It can impact their ability to engage in selfcare and home care activities, education, and work roles as well as social and leisure activities.

What can you as an employer do to minimize or accommodate an employee suffering with PTSD? According to US Department of Labor Workers Compensation, Employees may benefit from returning to work on a part‑time basis.  Modified work schedules or shared employment can be beneficial. In terms of workplace accommodations, each person will have specific needs, and you really have to look at accommodations based on that individual. Here are some options:

• Providing instructions or job-related responsibilities in writing as well as verbal instructions.
• Offering additional training or refreshers to assist that individual with some of the memory difficulties.
• Allowing workers to maintain more flexible schedules and being able to take time off for any treatment or appointments that they have to attend.
• Permitting extra time to complete non-urgent tasks.
• Letting employees wear noise canceling headphones to reduce distractions while they’re working.
• Increasing the amount of light in the work environment to help maintain alertness and help them improve concentration.
• Removing any emotional triggers that remind the employee of the trauma that are upsetting (when possible).
• Making sure parking areas are well lit or that security personnel is available to accompany them when walking to a car or unsafe locations in the dark.

According to the Recovery Village, with treatment the prognosis is positive that PTSD symptoms can be managed.  While approximately one-third of people do not achieve full symptom elimination with treatment, most individuals experience a significant reduction in the intensity of their symptoms. It is important to understand when an employee is struggling, and performance is low there maybe underlying issues that can be accommodated or addressed by managers.

Sources:

National Institute of Mental Health. “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)“ https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd .” November 2017. Accessed May 9, 2023.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “How Common Is PTSD in Adults?”  https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_adults.asp  February 3, 2023. Accessed May 9, 2023.

U.S. Department of Labor Workers Compensation. “How PTSD is Affecting Return to Work” https://www.genexservices.com/insights/workers-comp/blog/how-ptsd-affecting-return-work  August 2019. Accessed May 9, 2023

The Recovery Village. “PTSD Statistics and Facts” https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/ptsd/ptsd-statistics/#:~:text=70%25%20of%20adults%20experience%20at,some%20point%20in%20their%20life  May 2023. Accessed May 9, 2023.