The city of Baltimore is experiencing a difficult time. In the aftermath of the funeral of Freddie Gray, violence and the destruction of property occurred in parts of the city. The media has been showing constant coverage of the events. It may feel like it is impossible to escape newscasts and stories and images of the event. Many of you may live in the affected area while others of us are deeply concerned.
We are saddened by the death of this young man. Many of us may feel confused, frightened and not quite sure how to respond.
During a time like this, normal reactions include different feelings, thoughts and behaviors:
Feelings may include: sadness, anger, anxiety, uncertainty, irritability, vulnerability, helplessness, shock and disbelief.
Thoughts – difficulty focusing, disbelief, overwhelmed, confusion, preoccupation, sense of uneasiness
Behaviors – difficulty sleeping, appetite disturbance (can’t eat or eat too much), absentmindedness, withdrawal, isolation, increased use of substances (alcohol or drugs) restlessness and crying.
What can I do to help my children?
Children are especially frightened when they see what is happening.
Monitor or discourage children from watching media coverage.
Allow them to voice their fears.
Assure them that you will keep them safe.

What can I do to help myself?
Sharing your feelings but limit discussions in which you give your opinion for not everyone may feel the same.
Be a compassionate listener
Identify positive stress relievers – i.e. exercise, prayer, volunteering, etc.
Disconnect or limit media exposure about the disturbance for a time

In situations like this, the number one priority is safety for you and your family. If possible, avoid all areas where the disturbances are taking place. Here are some basic safety tips:
• Stay calm and keep your emotions in check
• Avoid confrontation
• Walk slowly and move away from the crowd as soon as you can
• Move to a safe, enclosed area whenever you are able
• If you live in an area where there is a disturbance, keep away from windows and doors and lock them
• If at all possible, plan an escape from the area
Remember your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to you. Experienced counselors can offer support and structure to help individuals and groups talk about the issues. Feel free to call us at 667.214.1555 to schedule an appointment.

Anger Management class is now forming.

1. What do you do when you get angry?
2. How do you feel when you get angry?
3. Does your anger last too long?
4. What happens after you get angry?
5. Does your anger interfere with your job or your relationships?

Could you or someone you know benefit from anger management?

Call the EAP now to reserve your spot in the class – 667.214-1561 (Counselor, Sue Walker)

Or email sue at swalker@psych.umaryland.edu

Baltimore now has its own casino very close to campus. Most people will go there for entertainment, but some will feel a NEED to go. What is the difference? Do you, or someone you love, have a problem?

Maryland Problem Gambling

If you think you or someone you care about has a gambling problem call our confidential, 24/7 Helpline at: 1-800-522-4700. Specialists in problem gambling are there to assist you in finding local resources. Helpline services are available in over 100 languages with the use of ATT language line. TTY services are also available to all callers. Or, go to the website at www.mdproblemgambling.com.

What Is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is any gambling, betting or wagering that causes family, financial, legal, emotional or other problems for the gambler, their family or others. Gambling problems can be mild or quite severe and can worsen over time.

Also known as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling and first recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as an impulse control disorder in 1980 as a result of the pioneering work of Robert Custer M.D. Pathological gambling is classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fourth edition (DSM IV), published by the American Psychiatric Association.

Problem Gambling Warning Signs

• Gambling more frequently or for longer than intended
• Lying about where money goes
• Declining work or school performance
• Borrowing money in order to gamble
• Increasing preoccupation with gambling
• Distancing or isolating from family or friends
• Unable to pay bills or cover expenses
• Chasing losses, or returning the next day to win back what was lost
• Have you committed or considered committing a crime to finance your gambling
• Have you made repeated unsuccessful efforts to control or stop your gambling

Help is Available

Call the Helpline 1-800-522-4700 and speak with someone who can get you to the help you may need.

• All calls are free
• All calls are confidential
• Call anytime, 24 hours a day

Effects of Problem Gambling

• Problem gamblers may resort to crimes to pay gambling debts, or to keep gambling. Often non-violent, or “white collar” crimes such as bad checks, forgery, credit card fraud, theft, embezzlement or tax related crimes.
• Major depression is one of the most common co-occurring disorders among problem gamblers presenting for care at up to 70%.
• Problem gamblers who present for care have one of the highest suicide attempt rate among the addictions. Two of every ten gamblers or over 20% have made a serious suicide attempt.
• Children of problem gamblers may be victims of abuse and neglect as a result of their parents’ gambling.
• Studies also indicate adolescents whose parents gamble too much have higher rates of gambling and other high risk behaviors.

Source: National Council on Problem Gambling