Cropped shot of a businessman using his computer in his home office

Maintaining Focus

Do you struggle with concentration? Some common reasons why you might have difficulty staying focused include:  Feeling tired or in pain Worry or stress Uncertainty about next steps External distractions, such as your phone, email, or other people Boredom with a task or the desire to move on to something else If you struggle to maintain…

Shopping basket filled with school supplies isolated on white background

Back-to-School Shopping

It’s back-to-school time! If you are looking for ways to save time and money on this year’s school shopping expedition, try these tips: Take an inventory. Before you head to the store, evaluate what you already have on hand. Finding supplies that may have been forgotten in a closet or drawer could delay the need…

Woman sleeping on hammock with a book

The Importance of Rest

If you often sleep seven or more hours a night but still wake up tired, it may mean that you are not getting enough rest. While sufficient sleep is critical, it is only one component in a “rested” state of being. Try these tips for ensuring you have sufficient downtime:  Be present. Engaging in an…

Shot of a group of businesspeople having a meeting in a modern office

Offering Encouragement

Sometimes, events within or outside the organization may leave your team shaken. Violent incidents, a natural disaster, stressful economic conditions, and changes at work are all reasons why people may feel uncertain or discouraged.   In these circumstances, it may be difficult to find the right words. While some people can come up with an inspirational…

Brothers watching sports or playing on the smartphone at the mall

Responsible Gambling

Gambling as a form of recreation is becoming increasingly popular. If you are someone who gambles, whether in person or online, it’s important to set limits. People who take a healthy approach to gambling:  Gamble for entertainment, not to make money Balance gambling with other leisure activities Accept losses as the cost of the entertainment…

Developing a Family Assistance Center Plan Webinar

Developing a Family Assistance Center Plan: Carnegie Mellon University Shares Lessons Learned Please join us for this free live webinar provided by Empathia’s Black Swan Solutions with special guests from Carnegie Mellon University. Responding to crises such as large disasters or violent acts requires a plan to provide comprehensive support and resources to individuals and…

Two hands of one family - military father and child together

Talking with Children about Military Deployment

The world’s uncertainties can be very stressful and frightening for military families. Children may experience the following reactions to news about a deployment: Fear: “What if something bad happens?” Helplessness: “There’s nothing I can do about any of this.” Anger: “Why does my (dad/mom) have to go?” Confusion: “What is happening? I don’t understand this.”…

A mild adult couple stand in their front yard and embrace as they smile for the camera. The wife is in military camo and has just returned from a tour.

Coping with a Loved One’s Military Deployment

Preparing for a loved one’s deployment is key to lessening the emotional, financial, social, and day-to-day impact. The following suggestions will help you prepare for a loved one’s departure. List your monthly bills and other important expenses so that you are aware of your financial obligations (this is especially important if your spouse or partner…

Military soldier arrived home to his family after serving his country in the war

Coping with a Military Deployment

Deployment and separation is a part of military life. Having to separate emotionally and physically from loved ones is challenging and stressful. Each stage of military activity has its own unique stresses: Pre-deployment: As you prepare for departure, you may experience anxiety, fear, uncertainty, in- creased emotional distance, and family conflicts. Some of those being…