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…

A young Asian male engineer working at a construction site

Creating a Safer Workplace

June is National Safety Month. The goal of this month is to increase safety awareness and decrease the number of accident-related injuries or deaths. Here are some tips for minimizing risk in your workplace:  Practice sun safety. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to use SPF 30 or better sunscreen as directed, wear…

Transgender Latin woman working with woman coworkers at the office in Mexico Latin America

Management’s Role in Gender Transition

Management support is key when someone is transitioning their gender at work. A proactive approach will help to ensure that the process is handled with empathy and respect.  When a team member informs a manager that they are transitioning, it is important that management become part of the workplace planning process. Together, they can: Determine…