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

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

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

Physical wellbeing: tips for maintaining a health body.

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

At a time when workplace distraction and stress have never been a greater impediment to productivity, it would be ideal to have a resource that could help employees deal with specific issues that may be holding them back in work or personal areas.

Magellan’s Wellbeing Coaching targets problem areas for employees and helps them achieve resolutions that clear the way for improved performance.

Workplace inattention

60% of employees can’t go 30 minutes without getting distracted (Fortune 2024) and employees lose over 5 work hours per week thinking about stressors (American Psychological Association).

What is Wellbeing Coaching?

This service, part of Magellan’s Employee Assistance Solution, helps employees and their family members focus on and manage challenging issues, build their resilience and thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Each Magellan Wellbeing Coach is a board certified coach (BCC) through Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE), and receive continual training and supervision to improve their skills and areas of expertise.

How does it work?

In confidential sessions conducted by phone or video, Wellbeing Coaches engage employees by listening and using motivational interviewing to help them clarify their goals and objectives, identify their relevant strengths and recognize potential roadblocks to goal attainment. Coaching sessions are typically 50 minutes long and scheduled based on the employee’s needs, with 30-minute follow up sessions usually once every two weeks.

Wellbeing Coaches assist employees in developing customized plans to achieve their goals via a strengths-based approach, building on the positive inner resources of an individual to make changes. Employees are encouraged to take an active role in managing their wellbeing through making behavioral changes and being accountable for their progress.

Providing a different perspective

We’re often consumed by our own opinions, life experiences and way of thinking. A coach can provide a new and often helpful perspective on things (INLP Center).

How does Wellbeing Coaching benefit employers?

Wellbeing Coaching motivates and empowers employees to take action to feel fulfilled in all aspects of their lives. When they focus on wellbeing in one area, other areas naturally improve, and employees experience increased confidence, engagement and loyalty. This supports a healthier, more present workforce.

Proven results

Magellan Healthcare members report a 96% overall satisfaction rating. The 4.8-out-of-5 rating includes Overall Service Quality, Achieving Goals, Coach Helpfulness, Coach Responsiveness and Resources Provided. These results demonstrate a tangible positive impact for employees and their families.

Learn more about Magellan’s Employer Solutions

Supporting Mental Health Through Federal EAP

Mental health challenges affect millions of people and veterans are particularly vulnerable due to the unique stresses they endure during their service. From combat exposure to the strains of reintegrating into civilian life, veterans often face complex emotional and psychological hurdles. Many return from active duty with experiences that can manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.

EAP Support for Veterans

It is essential to provide veterans with the support they need to maintain mental well-being, especially within the workplace. Since Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) are a mandated benefit for federal employees, promoting EAP access is an ideal starting point. This can be especially beneficial for those transitioning back to civilian life. It is often a complex and emotional process where balancing work responsibilities, family obligations, and personal health can feel overwhelming.

EAP offerings are tailored to meet the diverse needs of veterans, who comprise nearly 30% of the federal workforce. Not only do veterans receive services, but so do their household members, ensuring that the support extends beyond the individual to their family—a vital aspect for those balancing family life with work.

For veterans, EAP services can include:

1. Non-Medical Counseling: Veterans struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or stress can access short-term counseling with licensed professionals. These confidential sessions provide a safe space for veterans to discuss their concerns without fear of judgment or repercussions. For long-term mental health needs, EAP is available to facilitate referrals and connections to behavioral health resources through their medical carrier, community resources, and services designed for veterans.
2. Work-Life Balance Resources: Veterans who manage the pressures of work and family can turn to EAP services for support in finding childcare, elder care, or even home repair services. These resources help reduce the stress of juggling multiple responsibilities, allowing veterans to focus on their work while ensuring their personal lives are in order.
3. Crisis Support: In times of acute stress or crisis, veterans can call on their EAP to access immediate support. Whether it’s managing a family emergency or dealing with a mental health crisis, help is just a phone call away.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early intervention is key to managing mental health challenges. For veterans, reaching out to an EAP resource at the first sign of emotional distress can make all the difference in preventing long-term issues. EAPs are designed to be accessible and flexible, offering support before problems escalate. Employers should promote their EAP services, especially with veterans, to help them access a wide range of resources, empowering them to take control of their mental health in a way that fits into their work and life schedules, mitigating issues before they impact work performance.

Conclusion

Veterans bring valuable skills and experience to the federal workforce and need attention and care for their unique mental health challenges. By encouraging veterans to utilize federal EAP services, veterans have access to a range of supportive services and resources that can help them maintain their well-being. Federal EAPs are not just a lifeline—they are a pathway to lasting wellness for veterans and their families that may also improve overall business outcomes.

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

Managing what you can control during election season

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

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

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

SOURCE: The Jed Foundation

October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, typically beginning when fall starts and intensifying during late fall or early winter.

What’s the difference between SAD and the “winter blues”?

Many people feel a little down during colder months because they are stuck inside, and it gets dark early. These feelings, often called the “winter blues,” are temporary. SAD is a clinical form of depression that affects your daily life, including how you feel and think. SAD can last up to five months of the year.

What causes SAD?

About 5% of adults in the U.S. experience SAD. It tends to start in young adulthood. SAD may be caused by reduced serotonin and vitamin D levels, altered melatonin levels, decreased sunlight and shorter days.

What are the symptoms of SAD?

If you have SAD, you may experience mood changes and symptoms of depression, including:

• Persistent sadness
• Increased anxiety
• Food cravings and weight gain
• Extreme fatigue and low energy
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Social withdrawal
• Sleep disturbances

What are treatment options for SAD?

Treatment should be tailored to you and supervised by a healthcare professional. Options include:

• Spending time outdoors—Getting more sunlight can help improve your symptoms.
• Light therapy—Using a light therapy box daily helps regulate circadian rhythms and boost mood.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy—This treatment helps identify and change negative thought patterns.
• Vitamin D—A supplement may help if a deficiency is present.
• Medication—Antidepressants may be prescribed for severe cases.

For more on Seasonal Affective Disorder, visit our website for National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, MagellanHealthcare.com/Mental-Health, and be sure to check out the suicide prevention tip sheets and awareness campaign toolkit.

Sources

• Cleveland Clinic
• NIMH

Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLC) are key components in the fight to prevent suicide in service members and their families. With clinical expertise, collaborating with helping agencies, and connecting participants to appropriate resources, MFLCs embody the 2024 Suicide Prevention Awareness Month theme: “Joining Your Fight: Connect to Protect” (Defense.gov).

Trends of Military Suicide

There has been an increase in suicides for active-duty service members from 2011 to 2022, with 492 suicides in 2022. This was slightly more than in 2021, but less than in 2020. In addition, the rate is similar to the civilian population after accounting for population differences. Suicide data was not available for family members in 2022 however, data from 2021 showed a slight decrease from previous years (Defense Suicide Prevention Office).

Risk & Protective Factors

While the rate of suicide is similar between service members and the civilian population, there are factors unique to the military community that increase the risk of suicide. It is important to not only understand these factors, but also know the protective factors that can decrease these risks.

Suicide Prevention Resources

If you are a service member or military family, connect with a MFLC for local suicide prevention resources. Additionally, here are options for further information and support:

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, created in 2022, connects individuals to trained crisis counselors for confidential support in managing mental health related crises, including suicidal thoughts.
• Magellan Healthcare resources: toolkit, tip sheets, national resources
• Publication: Military Child Suicide: Prevention Techniques and Best Practices
• Publication: Suicide in the Military: Misconceptions, Risk Factors, and How You Can Help

In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, mental health has emerged as a critical public health concern. Suicide, now the 11^th leading cause of death in the United States, continues to be a major concern. After a brief decline in 2019 and 2020, suicide rates rose in 2021, with an average of 132 suicides per day—a 5% increase. The situation worsened in 2022, with an additional 3% increase, bringing the average to 135 suicides per day. By 2023, over 50,000 Americans died by suicide, marking the highest number on record. These concerning statistics underscore the importance of integrating targeted suicide prevention strategies into all behavioral health initiatives.

While Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and behavioral health benefits from commercial and public insurers provide support for individuals facing mental health challenges, these organizations can further strengthen suicide prevention efforts by implementing data-driven systems that proactively manage and mitigate suicide risk, including:

• Early identification—Preventing crises before they escalate is critical. Utilizing predictive analytics, organizations can identify early warning signs and intervene promptly.
• Ongoing assessment—Continuous mental health monitoring allows care to be adjusted and personalized as needs evolve.
• Proactive outreach—At-risk individuals often don’t seek help on their own. Through population engagement tactics, such as targeted emails, app notifications and direct outreach by care managers trained in suicide prevention, organizations can ensure timely support reaches those in need.
• 24/7 supportive care—Round-the clock access to support is vital for effective suicide prevention. On-demand resources like digital tools for mental health and wellbeing, educational materials, safety plans, hotlines, crisis text lines and direct connections to mental health professionals provide individuals with the help they need, whenever they need it.
• Specialized care management—Licensed clinicians trained in mental health services and evidence-based practices have the expertise to deliver essential support to at-risk individuals, including designing individualized care plans to enhance protective factors, such as building social support networks and improving problem-solving skills and using ongoing remote monitoring to adjust and personalize interventions as needs evolve.
• Sub-specialty networks—Access to clinicians specializing in mental health conditions ensures at-risk individuals receive the focused care they need. Also, subspecialty medical clinics and primary care providers should screen for mental health conditions. Some physical health conditions (e.g., traumatic brain injury and cancer), can carry a risk of suicide.
• Outcomes and data-driven approach—Using data to measure the effectiveness of suicide prevention programs allows organizations to continuously refine their strategies, ensure efficient use of resources and better target interventions.

Integrating data-driven targeted suicide prevention and risk management strategies can significantly enhance the effectiveness of EAP programs and behavioral health benefits provided by private and public insurers. Early detection of warning signs and timely interventions can reduce the risk of suicide, save lives and foster a healthier, more resilient society.

Learn how Magellan Healthcare’s data-driven approach is helping organizations safeguard lives here.

Sources:

• CDC
• CDC
• NBC News

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Sometimes, suicide may seem like the only way to escape the pain of situations such as a breakup, job loss, social exclusion, bullying or other trauma. This type of distress can be a dangerous trap. It’s vital to take immediate steps to move yourself away from feelings of hopelessness. What can you do?

Spot the triggers. Recognize worsening distress in the form of self-blame, poor self-esteem, rejection, loss of interest in activities or feeling trapped and hopeless.

Remove lethal items. Rid your home of items you could use for self-harm, like guns, knives, razors or expired, discontinued and non-essential medicines.

Get help right away. Acting quickly can make all the difference. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. A trained counselor will help you talk through what you’re feeling, and together you’ll develop a safety plan.

Consult with a professional. Mental health professionals can help you with concerns like depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

Reach out. Talk with a close friend, loved one or spiritual advisor. If you feel you’re in a crisis, dial 911.

Recognize feelings are temporary. Your dark feelings aren’t permanent. With responsive care, you can and will feel better.

For more on suicide prevention, visit our website for September Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, MagellanHealthcare.com/Prevent-Suicide, and be sure to check out the suicide prevention tip sheets and awareness campaign toolkit.

SOURCES: Mayo Clinic and Mental Health America