November is National Caregivers Month—a time to shine a spotlight on the millions of family caregivers who quietly, tirelessly care for the people they love. Whether it’s an aging parent, a spouse navigating a chronic illness, or a child with special needs, these dedicated individuals are the backbone of our healthcare system. And chances are, you know one. You might even be one.

The Caregiving Landscape: You’re Not Alone

Here’s a number that might surprise you: more than 63 million adults in the United States are family caregivers. That’s right—one in four Americans. Even more striking, one in three caregivers is under 50, juggling care responsibilities alongside careers, kids, and all of life’s other demands.

If you’re caring for someone, know this: you’re part of an enormous community, and your role is both vital and valued.

For many people, caregiving doesn’t come with advance notice. It arrives suddenly—after a phone call about a parent’s fall, a devastating diagnosis, or a medical crisis that turns life upside down. And while the love that drives caregiving is immeasurable, the challenges are very real.

The truth is that caregiving takes a toll. Between disrupted sleep, constant worry, physical demands and the emotional burden, it’s no wonder caregivers often put their own health on the back burner. Many cut back their work hours or leave their jobs entirely, sacrificing income and retirement savings. The average caregiver spends 26 hours per week providing care—and many give far more.

A Window Into One Family’s Journey

A co-worker shared this story with me. Her brother-in-law has lived with ALS for a decade. Today, he uses a wheelchair and needs assistance with everything—eating, bathing, dressing and even using the restroom. Her sister-in-law left her career to become his full-time caregiver, and while her love and commitment never waver, the exhaustion is constant. Add to that her own heart condition, and you begin to understand the weight she carries every single day.

Her story isn’t unique. It’s one of millions. And it’s taught me that while caregivers are incredibly strong, they shouldn’t have to do it alone.

Why Employers Should Care (and Many Already Do)

If you’re an employer wondering whether caregiver support matters, here’s your answer: absolutely. Supporting caregiving employees isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart business. When caregivers feel seen and supported at work, they’re more engaged, productive and loyal. Companies that embrace caregiver-friendly policies enjoy lower turnover and stronger morale.

Progressive workplaces are already stepping up with flexible schedules, remote work options, paid family leave and backup care services. But there’s another powerful resource that many employees don’t even know they have: their Employee Assistance Program.

Your EAP: The Support System You Didn’t Know You Had

Think your EAP is just for mental health counseling? Think again. If your company offers an EAP, you have access to a treasure trove of resources designed specifically for caregivers. Here’s what’s often available:

• Educational Resources and Expert Guidance
  Your EAP can connect you with information about aging, chronic conditions, disability services and caregiving strategies. They can help you decode medical jargon, understand treatment options and prepare the right questions for healthcare providers.
• Care Coordination Made Simpler
  Need to find a home health aide? Searching for adult day care or nursing facilities? Your EAP can provide referrals and help you navigate the overwhelming process of researching and evaluating care options in your area.
• Legal and Financial Consultations
  Many EAPs offer access to attorneys who can assist with power of attorney, healthcare directives, guardianship and estate planning. Financial consultants can help you make sense of Medicare, Medicaid and long-term care insurance—topics that can feel impossibly complex.
• Emotional Support When You Need It Most
  Caregiving comes with complicated emotions: grief, guilt, stress and sometimes resentment. EAP counseling services provide a safe space to process these feelings.
• Personalized Care Planning
  Some EAPs go even further, offering care consultants who can help you evaluate options, address home safety concerns and develop a comprehensive support plan tailored to your situation.

The best part? EAP services are confidential, free to you, and available without your manager’s approval. Using them won’t impact your job; it will only help you navigate one of life’s toughest challenges.

Take Action This November

National Caregivers Month is the perfect time to step up—whether you’re a caregiver, work with caregivers, or employ them:

• If you’re a caregiver: Don’t wait until you’re at your breaking point. Reach out to your EAP today. Explore what resources are available. Think of it as building your support network before you desperately need it. You deserve help, and it’s already there for you.
• If you’re a friend or colleague: Check in with the caregivers in your life—not with a vague “let me know if you need anything,” but with specific offers. Bring a meal. Offer to sit with their loved one for an hour. Just listen. Small gestures make a profound difference.
• If you’re an employer: Review your caregiver support policies. Are you promoting your EAP effectively? Many employees have no idea what’s available to them. Consider hosting an information session this month focused specifically on caregiving resources. Make it easy for employees to find help.

A Call to Action

Caregivers give so much—often sacrificing their own health, finances and peace of mind to care for those they love. This November, let’s commit to seeing them, truly supporting them, and ensuring they know about the resources that can lighten their load.

If you have an EAP, find out what caregiving support it offers. Visit your company’s HR portal, send a quick email, or make a phone call. That one small action could transform an overwhelming situation into something more manageable.

Remember this: Asking for help isn’t a weakness. It’s wisdom. It’s self-care. It’s what allows you to keep showing up for the person you love.

Let’s honor our caregivers not just with words, but with action.

Source: AARP

Family caregivers are the unsung heroes who provide vital support to older adults and people with disabilities. In the U.S., over 53 million family caregivers (up from 43.5 million in 2015) give unpaid care to loved ones—often while juggling jobs, family and their own wellbeing.

• 61% manage caregiving while working full- or part-time.
• 60 – 70% are women.
• 72% skip regular doctor visits because of their responsibilities.
• 41% report low overall wellbeing, and nearly half (47%) have experienced anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges in the past year.
• 45% have faced at least one financial hardship due to caregiving.

Experts remind caregivers: you don’t need to be perfect. Focus on what you can control, take one day at a time and make space for your own care. Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh or call your program for confidential mental health resources.

Working on Social Wellbeing

• Those people with social wellbeing have strong interpersonal relationships and have love in their lives that gives them positive energy. It helps to maintain multiple close relationships that encourage you to achieve, be healthy and enjoy life.
• It’s wise to cultivate your existing relationships: strengthen your family bonds and nurture your friendships. Always seek out new connections and participate in your community. Share your talents for the benefit of those around you.

Mental health plays a crucial role in every aspect of life: work, relationships, physical health and overall wellbeing. Mental health screenings are a simple and effective way to check in on how you’re feeling and identify whether symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety might be present. A mental health screening is a brief questionnaire designed to spot signs of potential concerns. It’s not a diagnosis, but it can help you or a loved one decide if it’s time to reach out for professional support.

Why screen?

• Depression and other mental health issues can affect anyone regardless of age, background or lifestyle.
• Screenings can catch early signs before symptoms become more serious.
• Early support can lead to better outcomes and prevent long-term impacts.
• Treatment can improve daily functioning and quality of life at work, school and home.

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

As summer winds down, it’s time to gear up for the school year ahead. Here are some tried-and-true tips to make the transition smoother for both kids and parents:

• Start easing into the school routine early—adjust bedtimes gradually a week or two before the first day.
• If your child is starting at a new school, schedule a tour to help them feel more comfortable in the new environment.
• For nervous kids, share encouraging stories (even your own!) about overcoming back-to-school jitters.
• Keep everyone on track with a visible family calendar in a common space like the kitchen.
• Fuel focus and energy with a healthy breakfast that includes protein.
• Set up a consistent, distraction-free space at home for homework and study time.

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

Working on Career Wellbeing

Career wellbeing means doing meaningful work that fits your strengths and feeling supported while doing it. But even high achievers can struggle with imposter syndrome. If self-doubt creeps in:

• Focus on facts, not fear. Track your wins and revisit positive feedback.
• Talk to a mentor or peer for perspective.
• Remember: your work matters, and so do you.

Confidence grows when you align with purpose and recognize your progress.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Rebekah Hardin, director, employer strategy & vendor management. Rebekah has been with Magellan since June 2021.

Continue reading to learn more about Rebekah:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

A typical workday for me involves working closely with our employee assistant program (EAP) vendor partners and acting as a liaison between the vendors and internal teams. I really enjoy getting to collaborate with so many different teams and diving into problem solving! Whether it’s addressing immediate issues that impact our customers and members or finding long-term solutions, it’s a good mix of challenge and reward. I also support the employer monthly operations report and our all-hands meetings, where I enjoy bringing a little fun each month with new themes, people celebrations, spotlights and maybe some random trivia.

Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make (or have made for you)?

I have three kids under the age of five-years-old, so I like to say that I’m on an episode of “Chopped.” Every night is a new challenge of putting together a well-rounded, delicious meal in under 30 minutes with the ingredients I already have and for the strongest critics (toddlers)!

In one word, how would your family and friends describe you?

Adventurous! I’m always up for a good adventure!

What is the farthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)?

I’ve been very fortunate to travel to over 50 countries so far! My favorite destinations are in South America: Patagonia, Easter Island, Galapagos Islands and Buenos Aires. I’d love to return with my kids to see these places through their eyes.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about what quirky personality traits your animals have!

We have three dogs with eclectic personalities. Pepperoni (Heeler/Aussie mix), George Barkington (Heeler/Pitt Mix) and Hank (Heeler/Pitt/Lab mix). Pepperoni is our bossy old lady, George is our cranky, comfort-loving middle-aged guy, and Hank is our enthusiastic, animal chasing, lovable pup.

What is your self-care routine after the work week/ favorite ways to unwind after work?

I love to get outside and work in my garden to unwind. There’s something super relaxing about digging in the dirt, yanking out some weeds, moving and arranging my flower beds and just being surrounded by green. It’s my happy place and totally clears my head and makes me feel refreshed. Plus, watching plants grow is kind of magical!

What is your favorite family or cultural tradition you’d like to share with others?

Almost every Christmas since before I was born, my extended family has done a live re-enactment of the Nativity. Some years, we had specific themes (for example, “the three caballeros” instead of the three wise men). New family members play “Baby Jesus,” and the costumes continue to evolve a little bit every year. We’ve now continued this tradition with my kids and nieces and nephews using many of the same costumes such as Burger King crowns, tinsel angel halos and shepherds’ robes all used from the last 40+ years!

Good nutrition has a major impact on your mental health and wellbeing. Certain foods and nutrients help your brain make chemicals that can improve your mood, attention and focus, while less healthy foods sap your energy.

• Foods that provide a quick energy boost but can leave you with low energy and mood later on include flour-based items such as breads, crackers and baked goods, plus sugar-sweetened beverages and snacks.
• A meal that effectively fuels your mood is one that combines complex carbohydrates with lean proteins and colorful produce. For example, complex carbohydrates from whole foods (like sweet potatoes, rolled oats, beans and quinoa) can boost the feel-good chemical serotonin in your brain.
• Protein consumption (from foods like fish, beef, chicken, turkey, tofu, beans, eggs and unsweetened yogurt) has been linked to higher levels of dopamine and norepinephrine—brain chemicals that impact your mood, motivation and concentration.
• Fruits and vegetables are high in nourishing vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and have also been shown to boost happiness.

Working on wellbeing: Working on emotional wellbeing

• Being emotionally well is key to your overall wellbeing. People with high emotional wellbeing know and apply their natural strengths, are resilient when faced with challenges, and regularly utilize positive self-talk.
• Support your emotional health by learning things outside of your comfort zone, connecting supportively with others, being physically active, offering forgiveness, embracing your successes and being kind to yourself and others.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Stacy Stoner, supervisor, corporate travel program. Stacy has been with Magellan for over 23 years!

Continue reading to learn more about Stacy:

Describe a typical workday in your life. 

There isn’t a typical day in managing travel. Every day is managing a new challenge such as weather, hotel issues, flight cancellations or all four tires being stolen from a rental car (true story). I work with CWT and our travelers to ensure policies are followed. Reports are sent to the executive leadership team showing travel spends and trends. In addition, I manage the gift card program and oversee the corporate card program for Magellan.

What are you currently reading?

I’m an avid reader and usually have 20 books on my TBR (to be read) and hold list for my kindle at any given time. Two of my favorite books are The Nightingale and The Glass Castle.

What’s your favorite way to use your PTO? 

I love to spend time with my granddaughter, Madeline, and my grandsons, Sawyer & Graham, in Arizona.

What is the farthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)? 

I previously worked as a flight attendant and both my parents also worked for airlines, so I’ve traveled to a lot of fun places. The top of my bucket list currently is Banff, Canada.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about what quirky personality traits your animals have! 

I have a cat, Khaki, that I adopted in 2020. He loves to sit on my laptop and attend Zoom calls with me!

In today’s interconnected world, the boundaries between work and home life have never been more blurred. As employers strive to create supportive workplaces, one crucial reality is clear: when an employee’s child struggles with mental health challenges, the entire family—and workplace—feels the impact.

The Teen Mental Health Crisis Affecting Your Workplace

The statistics tell a compelling story about why employers can no longer afford to overlook teen mental health:

• More than 50% of working parents report needing additional support from their employers to manage their children’s wellbeing¹.
• Over half of working parents have missed work specifically to address their child’s mental health needs².
• Spending on mental health services for teenagers has surged by 55% from 2013 to 2020³.

These numbers represent real workplace challenges: decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, higher healthcare costs and employees who are present physically but distracted mentally by concerns about their children.

The Ripple Effect on Your Organization

When employees are worried about their teens, the consequences extend throughout your organization:

• Reduced focus and productivity as parents attempt to manage their children’s mental health crises during work hours⁴.
• Increased healthcare utilization as families seek increasingly scarce mental health resources⁵.
• Higher turnover risk as employees seek employers who understand and support their family needs⁶.
• Diminished workplace wellbeing as the stress of parenting distressed teens follows employees to work.

In today’s competitive talent landscape, supporting the whole family isn’t just compassionate it’s a strategic business advantage.

Introducing Magellan’s Collaboration with BeMe: A Revolutionary Approach

Recognizing this critical need, Magellan Healthcare has teamed up with BeMe to offer a groundbreaking solution designed specifically for teens and young adults ages 13-22. This innovative mobile platform meets young people exactly where they are–on their phones–providing accessible mental health support that actually resonates with this digitally native generation.

The BeMe app takes a proactive, science-backed approach to teen mental wellbeing by:

• Building resilience and self-understanding through age-appropriate tools and resources.
• Creating a secure, supportive digital environment where teens can freely express and explore their emotions.
• Empowering young people to take an active role in their mental health journey.

What Makes BeMe Different from Other Mental Health Solutions

BeMe stands apart through its comprehensive, evidence-based approach that includes:

• Personalized content and activities.
• Over 40,000 engaging resources.
• Live one-on-one coaching.
• Seamless integration with Magellan’s Employee Assistance Program for virtual counseling sessions.
• 24/7 crisis support resources for immediate assistance.

Becoming an Employer of Choice

In a competitive talent market, family-supportive benefits are increasingly becoming a differentiator. By offering BeMe, your organization:

• Demonstrates genuine commitment to employee wellbeing that extends beyond the workplace.
• Addresses a critical need that many working parents are struggling to manage alone.
• Positions your company as forward-thinking and responsive to real-life employee challenges.
• Creates a supportive culture that recognizes employees as whole people with family responsibilities.

The Bottom Line

The mental health crisis among teens isn’t just a family issue, it’s a workplace issue that directly impacts your organization’s performance, healthcare costs and employee retention. By partnering with Magellan and BeMe, employers can offer a turnkey solution that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of employees while simultaneously strengthening organizational outcomes.

Ready to explore how Magellan Healthcare’s Employer Solutions can transform your benefits offering and support your employees’ families? Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/Employers.

References:

1. Magellan Healthcare and Workplace Options Working Parent Research Study, 2022
2. American Psychological Association, Stress in America 2023 Survey
3. Health Care Cost Institute (HCCI), “Health Care Spending on Children and Young Adults,” 2022 Report
4. Harvard Business Review, “The Impact of Employee Wellbeing on Productivity,” 2023
5. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, “Parental Stress and Workplace Outcomes,” 2022
6. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), “Family-Friendly Benefits and Retention,” 2023 Survey