Building your confidence – starting today.

Self-esteem is how you feel about yourself. When it’s healthy, you recognize your strengths and appreciate the good in life. The great news? You can strengthen it. Here’s how:

• Flip the script on self-criticism. Replace harsh inner voices with kinder ones. Celebrate wins, big and small, and own what you’re good at.
• Show your compassion. Everyone is a work in progress. Treat yourself like you’d treat a good friend, with kindness and understanding.
• Stop the comparison game. Social media shows highlight reels, not reality. Focus on your path and progress, not someone else’s.
• Find growth in every experience. When things don’t go as planned, ask what you learned instead of dwelling on the disappointment. Turn obstacles into stepping stones.
• Build your crew. Surround yourself with people who uplift you. A positive circle makes a real difference in how you see yourself.

Visit the Mind Your Mental Health page on your member website or call your program for confidential mental health resources.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know Jennifer Friedrich, vice president, federal program operations, military counseling division, federal market. Jennifer has been with Magellan since 2012.

Continue reading to learn more about Jennifer:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

My workday has a high operational tempo and is centered on maintaining operational excellence within the military counseling division, a team of over 1,750 associates including project management staff, Military & Family Life counselors and personal financial counselors. I focus on supporting our government customer, our employees and the organization as a whole by balancing priorities, addressing emerging needs and ensuring our teams have the guidance and resources they need to succeed. Each day requires adaptability, collaboration and a steady focus on delivering high-quality outcomes in support of the military counseling mission.

What is your biggest strength?

My greatest strength is my ability to lead through a human-centered, strength-based approach. My leadership, counseling and teaching philosophies naturally intersect and are grounded in humanistic psychology. I focus on identifying and amplifying each individual’s strengths and intentionally aligning them with meaningful growth opportunities. This approach builds trust, enhances intrinsic motivation and supports employee wellbeing and confidence, resulting in more engaged, capable and resilient teams.

How do you feel you excel in supporting your team(s)?

I excel in supporting my teams by modeling and encouraging balance, reflection and self-care as essential components of sustained performance. Magellan has afforded me the ability to maintain work-life balance, which enables me to remain focused, present and mission-driven. I translate this into my leadership by advising employees to intentionally set aside time each day to pause, evaluate and invest in themselves. I recognize that personal wellbeing directly supports effectiveness, engagement, and long-term success.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

Traveling is my favorite way to spend time off. I enjoy exploring new geographic locations, immersing myself in different cultures and experiencing the food and traditions that make each place unique. Travel allows me to recharge, broaden my perspective and return with renewed energy and curiosity that carries over into my work and daily life.

What is the best career advice that you have received or have learned through your own experiences?

The best career advice I have learned through experience is to lead and work with purpose. Magellan has compassionately pushed my leadership growth edge by fostering a thriving, supportive environment that encourages reflection and development. I advise employees to explore their inner “why” and pursue opportunities that align with their values and sense of purpose. When individuals are engaged in meaningful work, they become more effective, connected and resilient, which are invaluable benefits that extend both inside and outside the workplace.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about their quicky personality traits and share a picture!

I have four pets: Oliver, Sage, Teddy and Poppy, and each has a wonderfully unique personality! Oliver is the loyal protector of the group, always keeping a watchful eye on everyone. Sage oversees all activity like a wise manager, making sure nothing goes unnoticed. Teddy truly lives up to her name. She’s our cuddly teddy bear and resident comforter. Poppy is a nonstop bouncing ball of energy who keeps us on our toes.

Together, they bring an incredible amount of joy and unconditional love to our home.

Mental Wellbeing Month asserts that being mentally healthy is a vital part of your overall wellness. Just as it’s important to monitor markers of your physical health such as blood pressure or cholesterol levels, you should keep careful track of your emotional wellbeing. This can include your moods, ability to function socially, energy levels and ability to respond to challenges.

• Practice mindfulness by slowing down during your day to fully experience the present moment. Take stock of how you’re feeling and let go of stress.
• Seek professional help if you experience ongoing feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of energy, insomnia, early awakening, oversleeping or restlessness and irritability.
• Schedule meaningful activities each day, such as creative hobbies, that are important to you. Identify and work into your routine the activities that reliably help you relax and recharge.

Visit the Mind Your Mental Health page on your member website or call your program for confidential mental health resources.

Working on physical health

Never underestimate the importance of nurturing your physical wellbeing. It’s never too late to work on improving your health.

• Physical health forms the foundation for mental and emotional resilience—allowing you to meet the challenges of the day, manage your relationships and succeed in your work.
• The connection is clear—prioritize regular movement, a healthy diet, quality sleep and you’ll likely experience increased energy, improved mood, enhanced appearance and greater capacity to pursue what matters most to you.

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 Krista Workman, senior director of claims optimization. Krista has been with Magellan since 2020

Continue reading to learn more about Krista:

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

Weekends are all about family for me. Sometimes that means a quick getaway with my husband, other times it’s pizza and a movie at home in Tennessee, attending a local festival or traveling to visit my two granddaughters in Georgia and South Carolina. Sundays are always set aside for worship at church, followed by lunch and our weekly grocery run.

What are you currently reading?

I am a lifelong learner, and I love to read. One of my favorite quotes from Charlie “Tremendous” Jones is, “You will be the same person in five years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.”
Right now, I’m enjoying two books—Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop by Jessica Redland, a charming and cozy Christmas story, and The Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal, which has been meaningful as I recently got married and we became a wonderful, blended family.

What’s your favorite way to use your PTO?

A friend once suggested taking one PTO day each month that doesn’t already include a holiday—just to recharge—and I try to stick to that. I also love traveling to visit family out of town and exploring new places. This year I was fortunate to visit London, Scotland, Ireland and the Bahamas. My favorite stop was the beautiful and quaint town of Kilkenny, Ireland.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Growing up, my dad would always tell me, “Krista, 95/5.” It was his reminder to focus on the five percent of things within my control rather than the 95 percent that aren’t. It’s not always easy to practice, but it’s a wise approach to life.

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

Thankfully, my husband is an excellent cook. My favorite dish he makes is his homemade fried chicken—it’s hard to beat!

Gifting presence: Making time for self-care

The holiday season often comes wrapped in ribbons of joy—but also tangled in stress, unrealistic expectations and exhaustion. This year, focus on reducing seasonal stressors and prioritizing wellbeing, connection and quality time.

Slow down and approach the holidays with more heart and less hustle, remembering that the most valuable gift you can give is your full, present self.

Self-care is essential, not selfish

Too often, we put ourselves last on the to-do list. But remember, your emotional wellbeing is the foundation for being able to truly show up for those you love. Here are five simple ways to nurture yourself each day:

1. Start each day with intention. Even 10 minutes of quiet can shift your energy.
2. Say no, gracefully. Boundaries are a beautiful act of self-respect.
3. Establish tech-free time. Be authentically there. Listen fully and laugh freely.
4. Move your body mindfully. Stretch. Walk. Breathe.
5. Rest unapologetically. Renewal comes through sleep, stillness and true downtime.

Choose peace over perfection

You don’t need a perfect dinner or fancy decorations to make the holidays special. Focus on connection, laughter and shared moments. Order takeout, wear comfy clothes and do what nourishes you, not what drains you. The holiday season can be joyful, but it can also bring stress. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a calmer, happier holiday:

• Be realistic about what you can accomplish. Don’t aim for perfection; simplify and downsize wherever possible.
• Avoid heavy debates. If someone brings up an uncomfortable topic, stay calm and politely change the subject.
• Try new traditions. If old holiday rituals feel burdensome, experiment with new ways to celebrate.
• Stay active. Physical activity is a strong stress reliever and helps burn extra holiday calories. Consider going for a walk before or after meals.
• Moderate alcohol consumption. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, or choose non-alcoholic beverages.
• Take breaks during events. Step outside for a few minutes to reset if social situations feel stressful.

Working on emotional wellbeing

An important part of emotional wellbeing is being able to regulate our moods, thoughts, impulses and choices in
all kinds of situations. People with high emotional wellbeing actively manage their feelings when confronted with
change, uncertainty and even hardship.

To better control your emotions, try mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing. When you experience
upsetting emotions, remind yourself to calm down, breathe and think clearly. Don’t react until you feel like you have
your emotions under control.

In a season full of noise, choose presence. Give yourself permission to rest, breathe and just be, so you can show up fully for the ones who matter most. Take care of yourself this season. You deserve a stress-free holiday!

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/2025-Holidays for more information and helpful resources.

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.

Tough times can leave you feeling disconnected, anxious or off balance. Grounding techniques help shift your attention back to the present moment by engaging your body, mind or emotions. These small actions can support your mental wellbeing anytime, anywhere.

Anchor yourself with physical grounding

Physical grounding helps you feel present through breath, movement and your senses.                                           

• Breathe and stretch: Inhale deeply, stretch overhead and notice your body release tension.
• Feel with focus: Pick up a nearby object. Notice its shape, weight and texture.
• Pause and listen: Close your eyes. Listen to all the sounds you can notice for one minute.

Stay steady with mental grounding

Mental grounding helps redirect your focus from distressing thoughts to facts, patterns or tasks.

• Spot five things: Look around and name five things you see.
• List it out: Name as many animals or foods as possible in 30 seconds.
• Challenge your brain: Say the alphabet backward.

Find calm with emotional grounding

Emotional grounding helps you reconnect with comfort, strength or safety.

• Speak kindness: Say a calming phrase like, “I’m doing the best I can.”
• Press play: Listen to a song or podcast that makes you feel strong or uplifted.
• Picture peace: Close your eyes and imagine a place where you feel calm, safe or grounded.

A small moment of calm can be the first step toward steadiness. Try different grounding techniques and notice what helps you feel more present, supported and in control.

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

Bullying isn’t just a schoolyard problem, it’s a pervasive issue that can follow children wherever they spend their time: in classrooms, on buses, at extracurricular activities and online. The impact of bullying is profound, leaving emotional scars that can last into adulthood. Children who are bullied are at higher risk for anxiety, depression, social withdrawal and academic challenges. 

Employees who are parents of children experiencing bullying often face additional stress that can impact workplace productivity, engagement and mental wellbeing. According to the American Psychological Association, workplace stress related to family concerns can lead to higher absenteeism, decreased focus and lower job satisfaction. By providing support for employees’ families, employers can reduce these stressors, improve retention and foster a culture of wellbeing. 

Understanding bullying

Bullying involves intentionally using physical, verbal or psychological actions to harm someone else, often exploiting a real or perceived power imbalance. Parents often notice behavioral changes in children who are being bullied including, withdrawal from activities, mood changes or reluctance to talk about school. Addressing bullying requires proactive communication and practical support. 

Practical ways to help children cope
While every situation differs, there are proven strategies to help children stay safe and resilient: 

• Notify school officials and trusted adults. 

• Avoid fighting back in anger and walk away when possible. 

• Use the buddy system for safety in numbers. 

• Encourage open dialogue and provide guidance tailored to your child’s needs. 

Beyond immediate safety measures, many children who experience bullying also struggle with lasting anxiety and depression that require additional therapeutic support. When traditional in-person therapy isn’t readily accessible or when children need supplemental tools to build emotional resilience, innovative digital interventions can provide crucial support. 

Digital tools to reduce anxiety and empower children 
Magellan Healthcare’s Digital Emotional Wellbeing program, powered by NeuroFlow, is a core component of our Employee Assistance Program. The programs, ThinkHeroTM (ages 6-12 years) and ThinkWarriorTM (ages 13-17 years), offer age-appropriate, interactive digital cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs designed to address anxiety and depression in children and teens. 

Developed with a clinical psychologist specializing in pediatric CBT, these programs provide adventure-based, interactive narratives that help children: 

• Recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns 

• Practice situations they would normally avoid 

• Build lifelong skills to manage anxiety 

• Develop inner strength and self-empowerment 

Participants progress through nine self-directed steps, with the option to engage a supportive adult to provide encouragement and reinforce progress. The programs are confidential and accessible anywhere, on any device.

Proven impact of Magellan’s programs 

These results show that structured digital interventions can meaningfully improve emotional wellbeing for children and teens, offering a measurable ROI for employers who provide access to these resources. 

Why employers should offer Magellan’s EAP with Digital Emotional Wellbeing Programs
Supporting employees’ families goes beyond childcare, it directly impacts workplace performance. With Magellan’s EAP, employers can: 

• Help working parents manage their stress and support their children’s mental health 

• Reduce stress-related absenteeism and improve productivity 

• Enhance employee satisfaction, retention and engagement 

• Promote a culture of wellbeing and resilience across the organization 

Bullying can’t always be prevented, but with the right support systems, children can build resilience, parents can feel empowered, and employers can benefit from a healthier, more productive workforce.  

Learn how Magellan Healthcare can support your employees and their families with digital emotional wellbeing programs. 

Sources: American Psychological Association and Harvard Business Review