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Events

Mar 14 Webinar: Gambling in the Workplace: Anything but a Safe Bet

Video Recording A video recording of this webinar is available for you to watch. Gambling in the Workplace: Anything but a Safe Bet Join us for a free webinar sponsored by the University of Maryland Department of Psychiatry UMMC EAP Programs. Thursday, March 14, 20242:00–3:00 pm Join us for a better understanding of how problems […]

A Journey Through Her Lens February 3, 2024 flyer

Feb 3 Event: A Journey through Her Lens

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Mu Xi Zeta Chapter Baltimore County, MD Presents “A JOURNEY THROUGH HER LENS” A powerful art-gallery style presentation with photographs & impactful discussion on domestic violence facilitated by Soror Carol Edwards – Alpha Zeta Chapter Saturday, February 3, 2024 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Woodmoor Recreational Activity Center 7111 Croyden […]

Sep 21 Webinar: Making the Most of the Limited PSLF Waiver: How Employees Can Access Student Loan Forgiveness

Video Recording & Presentation Slides A video recording of this webinar is available for you to watch. You can also view and download the presentation slides. Making the Most of the Limited PSLF Waiver: How Employees Can Access Student Loan Forgiveness Join us for a free webinar sponsored by the University of Maryland Department of […]

July 22 Webinar: Mental Health and Well-Being: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Video Recording A video recording of this webinar is available for you to watch. Mental Health and Well-Being in the Age of COVID: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Implications and Practices Join us for a free webinar sponsored by the University of Maryland Department of Psychiatry UMMC EAP Programs. The webinar includes 1 CEU for Social […]

UMMS EAP

Stressful Times in Baltimore

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.

Non-profit Helps with Filing Tax Returns

CASH is a non-profit association that helps low income tax filers with their tax returns.  CASH stands for “Creating Assets, Savings and Hope.”  It was founded in 2001 to help file tax returns and to offer financial advice.  Volunteers are located at community centers and churches around Baltimore.  Please go to www.bmorefreetaxes.org for more information.

Mediation between Employees

Did you know the EAP provides mediation services?

If two employees are having trouble working together, the EAP might be able to help.  Both employees can be referred (or refer themselves) to the EAP for Mediation Services. Different counselors would meet one-on-one with each employee. Then, the employees and the counselors will all meet to talk about problems and solutions.  Often, these meetings are only needed one time, but can span a period of time to monitor progress and use the meetings as a forum to talk about other issues that might arise.  Many times, misunderstandings have been resolved, new relationships have been formed and productivity has risen.  Work doesn’t have to be something you dread.  It can be a place you look forward to going to and feel accomplished as you and your team work together toward a common goal.

Mediation between Employees

Did you know the EAP provides mediation services?

If two employees are having trouble working together, the EAP might be able to help.  Both employees can be referred (or refer themselves) to the EAP for Mediation Services. Different counselors would meet one-on-one with each employee. Then, the employees and the counselors will all meet to talk about problems and solutions.  Often, these meetings are only needed one time, but can span a period of time to monitor progress and use the meetings as a forum to talk about other issues that might arise.  Many times, misunderstandings have been resolved, new relationships have been formed and productivity has risen.  Work doesn’t have to be something you dread.  It can be a place you look forward to going to and feel accomplished as you and your team work together toward a common goal.

Mediation between Employees

Did you know the EAP provides mediation services?

If two employees are having trouble working together, the EAP might be able to help.  Both employees can be referred (or refer themselves) to the EAP for Mediation Services. Different counselors would meet one-on-one with each employee. Then, the employees and the counselors will all meet to talk about problems and solutions.  Often, these meetings are only needed one time, but can span a period of time to monitor progress and use the meetings as a forum to talk about other issues that might arise.  Many times, misunderstandings have been resolved, new relationships have been formed and productivity has risen.  Work doesn’t have to be something you dread.  It can be a place you look forward to going to and feel accomplished as you and your team work together toward a common goal.

Anger Management Class-January 13, 2015

The EAP will be hosting an Anger Management class  beginning next week. 

It will be taught in a class-like format so you can learn how your background and family experiences taught you about anger.  The class will give you ideas of different ways to control and express your anger.

The class will be small, no more than 10 people, and will be non-judgmental.  We are all here to learn.  The class will be held at noon on Tuesdays. 

If you, or someone you know, could 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

New Year’s Resolution-Better Self-Care

Trouble Sleeping?

More and more research is coming out that the use of electronics near bedtime can interfere with sleep.  Light is considered one of the strongest factors affecting the body’s circadian clock, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle.  Melatonin is suppose to be highest at night to help induce sleep.  However, light can suppress melatonin and thus, disrupt the body’s circadian cycle.

So, if you are having trouble sleeping, monitor your use of anything with a light emitting screen: TV, lap top, cell phone, electronic reading device, etc.  The brighter the light and the closer you hold it to your eyes (as we are apt to do with cell phones) the more potentially disruptive the light can be to your whole system.

A poor night’s sleep can affect everything the next day:  your mood, your focus, your energy.  Do yourself a favor and leave at least 1-2 hours before bedtime free from electronics.  Give yourself a few days to see if your melatonin begins to kick back into gear and you have better sleep.

For other self-care tips, please visit the EAP and let a counselor assist you in some new ideas that are customized for YOU.  Make 2015 the year you finally achieve this New Year’s Resolution!

Anger Management Class

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

Grief Support Group, Fall 2014

Many employees have had someone close to them die.  Sometimes it is difficult to move through the grief process alone.  The EAP would like to offer extra support to those who find they need that. The EAP will be holding a new Grief Support Group on Mondays during lunchtime.  The group meetings will begin October 27 and end on December 29th, 2014.  They will be held noon-1:00 in suite 580 of the Professional Building, 419 West Redwood Street. Please call our new EAP number to sign up-667.214.1555, or to ask any questions.

Gambling at the New Casino

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