Courtesy of Washington Employee Assistance Program
The pandemic changed the way we live, work and play, reminding us we lack control over some aspects of life. Political, social and civil strife may leave us feeling uncertain about the future. Mass shootings impact our sense of safety and security. Wildfires disrupted the lives of many.
The past year’s challenges and events have had a powerful impact on our emotional health and wellbeing. Current coping might not feel sufficient when times are this challenging.
To support employees, the Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers support and resources.
Suggestions and Tips
- Acknowledge your thoughts and feelings. It is common to experience a wide range of emotions following a violent event. Avoid self-talk about what you “should” be feeling.
- Identify and attend to the things in your scope of influence. Focus on the things you can impact most directly and positively.
- Take a break from – or at least minimize – social media and news consumption. Staying informed can be important, but avoid overexposure.
- Minimize toxic interactions. Reduce the effect of negative, stress-inducing relationships.
- Practice mindfulness. Be aware of what you sense and feel, while putting judgment aside.
- Engage in healthy behaviors. Eat well. Get sleep. Be physically active to the best of your abilities.
- Seek out and use supportive resources. Ask for support and help from the people, places and things that are helpful to you.
Resources
- Washington Recovery Helpline - For mental health, substance use or gambling challenges
- County Crisis Lines - Available to anyone in Washington State, regardless of income or insurance
- Mass Violence Resources – From National Child Traumatic Stress Network
- Coping With Grief After Community Violence – From Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call 800-273-8255
- Crisis Text Line – To connect with a crisis counselor, text “Heal” to 741741
- Alcohol and Substance Use – From the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
In summary: The past year’s challenges and events have had a powerful impact on our emotional health and wellbeing. Current coping might not feel sufficient when times are this challenging. To support state employees, the Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers suggestions and resources, reprinted in this Insider blog post.
