EMPAC

Connect with us today at the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce Wichita Business Expo 2024! We're located at Booth # 819.

This is your chance to chat face-to-face with our experts and answer your questions about how our employee assistance program helps your company's team thrive.

See you soon!

Can't stop by the Expo? Reach out and get started today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

Are you looking for a trusted resource to help you better understand mental health and wellness?

Sign up for our monthly newsletter -- the Frontline Employee Newsletter, with insightful content for your company's team members, or the Frontline Supervisor Newsletter, written especially for your company's leadership.

Both contain valuable content about timely topics - from boosting employee engagement to how to ask for feedback from your manager.

Start thriving now and sign up for the newsletter today -- scroll to the bottom of each page to find the sign-up: https://empac-eap.com/employee/ or https://empac-eap.com/employer/.

Not an empac member? Talk with your HR rep about how your company can become a partner to create healthy people and thriving organizations: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

Did you know the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported that 590 Kansans died by su***de in 2022, and 49,000 died nationwide? That's one death every 11 minutes.

And in 2022, nationally, 13.2 million people seriously thought about su***de.

These are sobering facts, so what can you do to help?

Su***de prevention starts with creating a community where people feel safe to reach out to one another.

Accomplish this by:
- Being there for someone: A simple check-in lets them know that they are valued and that they are not alone.
- Being comfortable with open conversations: When you talk openly about life you help others feel safe and comfortable to ask for help.
- Educating yourself: Understanding the signs and symptoms of a mental health crisis can help those in need, allowing you to guide them to the right resources.

If you or someone you know is in need of help, please call or text 988 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Together, we can offer hope and even save a life.

Want to know more about how you can find support for your mental health and wellness? Reach out today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

"When we can love and connect all of our emotions. Our successes and our failures. Our joys and our sufferings. We can love and connect others." -- Molly Carroll, MS, Licensed Therapist/Professional Coach

Discover how you can improve your connections during this month's Virtual Black Community Support Session on Thursday, Sept. 19, from 1 - 2 p.m.

Laila Robinson, BA, EAP Intern, will lead the session.

Please remember, this session is reserved exclusively for those within the black community to provide a safe space for processing experiences or concerns.

Also, please see below for a video you may watch before the session. However, we will also show it DURING our session. You do NOT have to watch it ahead of time to join us.

Access the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKUgVpCqvfY&t=334s

RSVP now to [email protected]. Meeting details/link will be sent to you. See more about Laila and all our experts who can help you thrive: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

We believe healthy, well-balanced people make thriving companies and strong communities. When we say this, we're talking about our partner organizations and our own team as well!

For example, our team member, Rebecca Barnhouse, MS, Employee Training and Development Specialist wanted to hone her leadership skills so we encouraged her to take part in the Leadership Academy, which is administered by W - A Community of Young Professionals. This premier program helps young professionals to level up their life skills -- whether personally or in the workplace.

Rebecca shares, "Leadership Academy can help develop competency in areas such as networking and establishing relationships so that I can be more successful in my professional life.

"So far in these leadership classes, I have built lasting relationships, learned about my leadership style and skill set, and translated those skills to help our clients become more self-aware of their individual passions.

"I am thankful empac was able to support me in this next professional endeavor."

We are so proud of Rebecca for pursuing her professional growth! And we are grateful to W for offering this excellent program so our team can thrive and help others do the same!

Looking for ways to help your team? Get started today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

Are you relaxing this Labor Day Holiday? You should -- because employee stress and burnout are at record highs! And 78% of Americans don't even use the maximum amount of paid time off.

Now more than ever, you must find a sensible balance of work and play to keep productive and thriving.

We hope you're able to carve out valuable time with family and friends on this holiday. Encourage your team members to do the same. Reflect, recharge, and get ready for what's to come -- both professionally and personally.

Have a wonderful Labor Day Holiday!

Join us in welcoming our 2024/2025 graduate-level employee assistance program interns:

- Phil Bollig, Newman University
- Lance Minor, Wichita State University
- Amy Thurman, Wichita State University
- Laila Robinson, Newman University

We are grateful for the opportunity to provide these future counselors with a positive environment as they grow and develop their skills as mental health professionals.

Watch for details about each of them in future social media posts!

Until then, if you need help with your mental health and wellness, reach out to our experts today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

Are you filled with gratitude? We know it can be challenging to be grateful when you may feel like you're struggling.

In fact, when someone regularly expresses gratitude, they can experience a 25% increase in happiness and a significant decrease in stress and depression. It's not just about feeling good—gratitude also enhances your well-being and efficiency at work. What can you do to practice gratitude?

1. Keep a gratitude journal: Write down three things you're thankful for each day. When you reflect on these moments, you shift your mindset and improve your mood.

2. Express Appreciation: Take a moment to acknowledge the efforts of those around you. Thank a coworker for answering your question. Praise someone for meeting a deadline you set for a project. Your grateful actions will build stronger connections.

3. Mindful Moments: Spend a few minutes each day appreciating the small joys in life, whether it's a warm cup of coffee or a beautiful sunrise. These pockets of peace help re-center you and build resilience for taking on the day.

Need more help practicing gratitude? Turn to our experts and start thriving today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

We've all been there. Scrambling around trying to find your smartphone, laptop, or other digital device. Did you have a moment of panic? What if your boss calls you? What if you miss out on the latest social media trend?

What if you tried to stay off your device a bit more -- especially if your panic was too overwhelming to you?

But how can you untie from your device? Take a look at this month's blog, where you can get five straightforward tips to decrease your screen time. Start thriving and read the blog now: https://empac-eap.com/2024/08/reclaim-your-time-offline/.

Quality leadership helps organizations thrive, and we are fortunate to have an outstanding leadership team that supports us internally and with our clients. Michael Brewer, MS, LCMFT, LCAC, who serves as our Director of Operations, is one of these amazing leaders.

We asked Micheal to share a bit of insight about himself so we all could get to know him better.

1. What one thing could you never remove from your daily routine?
My morning quiet time with a large cup of coffee.

2. What is your favorite season and why?
Fall – Beautiful colors, cooler weather, and hunting season.

3. What would you choose to have an unlimited supply of in the office?
Post-it Notes – I am obsessed with Post-it Notes and seem to always run out.

Find out more about Michael, our team of experts, and how we can help you thrive: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

What's Wednesday, September 25 at Niche's Henry's Place?

Empac's 2024 Annual Meeting! Kick off your day at 9 a.m. with a fun social hour where you can visit with our expert staff and enjoy some delicious coffee or mimosa mocktail -- on us!

Our business meeting begins at 10 a.m., when you'll hear about the past year's exciting achievements.

Then at 11:30 a.m., experience a savory soup and salad, courtesy of the talented Niche's WSU Tech culinary students.

Spend some meaningful time with industry colleagues who strive for healthy workplaces and thriving organizations at our 2024 Annual Meeting.

Looking to start thriving today? We can help, get started now: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

Are you a new supervisor struggling in your new role? We can help! Start reading our monthly Frontline Supervisor Newsletter. In fact, take a look at a recent question a new supervisor recently asked in the May issue:

Is there a way to explain to me how I can "think like a leader?"

Every day is an opportunity to learn and grow in your new leadership role. But here are a few key principles worth knowing now:

1. Create a vision for your role and team. It is easier to apply leadership skills when you set goals and outcomes.

2. Be aware that your team naturally observes and analyzes your behavior. Be an example for them to follow.

3. Encourage employees to be proactive and take the initiative. Support them with resources where possible.

4. Communicate and foster open and honest communication with each employee, not just the team. Discover what each one aspires to be and achieve in their career. Offer mentorship, coaching, and training opportunities.

5. Build a supportive and inclusive work environment. Intervene quickly in situations that threaten this environment.

And remember to strive for your own continuous career development -- the more you learn, the more you can help your team learn and thrive.

Need more coaching or leadership training? Reach out today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

"Greatness is not found in the middle. It is born in the extremes." -- Craig Groeschel, Founder and Senior Pastor, Life.Church, Bestselling Author

We heard these wise words during the 2024 Global Leadership Conference this week -- and we are grateful that some of our members attended this inspirational leadership event.

Craig went on to share how you have been given unique gifts -- and how you should "obsess about what you are created to do. If you don’t, you won’t be great for anything."

Of course, you should obsess in a healthy, strategic way to achieve your goals as a leader. How?
- Focus - Avoid being so busy that you lose your focus. Your goal should be productivity, not activity.
- Care - Your team matters. They want to be loved, have a connection. Value them, appreciate them and inspire them. Does your team know you care?
- Commitment - Many are involved, but few are committed. Go all in, believe in what you do, and make it a whole-hearted, all-encompassing life endeavor (WHALE). Share your obsession with your team and support them every step of the way.

How are you obsessed with what you do? Tell us in the comments!

All of us worry from time to time. But are your worries overwhelming you? Take a look at our three simple tips to help you better cope with your concerns.

1. Get enough sleep. Yes, you may have heard this many times, but it’s true. Most people need from seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Our advice:
- Your body must recharge to feel your best and tackle daily challenges.
- Create a calming routine to wind down enough for sleep. Put your devices away at least an hour before bedtime. Take a bath, read a book, meditate.
- And when you get up - gradually get into the day. Stretch in bed, perform breathing exercises, drink a glass of water to rehydrate your body. And wait to get back on your devices until you’re ready to tackle the day.

2. Break the cycle of worrying. Divert your mind with positive thoughts or feelings.
- Play music, try a word game, or take a walk.
- You can also allow yourself to think through what is on your mind. Give yourself a set time – 10 to 30 minutes – and think about your concern. Write it down, consider solutions. When time is up, take steps toward a solution.

3. Tidy your home. If you’re struggling with intrusive thoughts, resolve items within your immediate control.
- Clean up the kitchen, make your bed, pull weeds in your garden, do a load of laundry, or clean out a closet.
- Even with these smaller tasks, you will feel accomplished, your environment will be more organized, and your overall worry and stress will decrease.

Still need more help to deal with your worries? We understand. Reach out today and start thriving: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

Join us in welcoming new team member Carmen Altendorf, MS, LMSW, as a counselor.

Carmen is passionate about working with issues related to aging, grief, and loss. She is enthusiastic about providing therapy to couples and families dealing with relational challenges.

Learn more about Carmen and our team of experts who are ready to help you thrive: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

Thank you to the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce for their commitment to the Small Business Award program. It takes exceptional organizational abilities, creativity, and strong alliances to make it a success—and you have done a beautiful job. It was an honor to be amongst the finalists, and participating in the process brought returns to empac far beyond our expectations.

Congratulations to the Winners of all three tiers.
- Tier One: Thomas Grey Interiors
- Tier Two: The Workroom
- Tier Three: Dan's Heating and Cooling, Inc.

Did you know July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month? This effort, implemented by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, aims to help each of us better understand the unique environments, cultures, histories, and circumstances (SDOH) of racial and ethnic minorities.

How can you be proactive and instill support systems to foster a healthy work environment? Find out with our latest blog. Discover three ways you can enrich the mental health of your minority team members. Read the blog now: https://empac-eap.com/2024/07/three-ways-to-enrich-the-mental-health-of-your-minority-team-members/.

Part of thriving includes growth. That's why we're excited to share with you team member Melissa Graves, MS LMSW, is growing in her counseling career!

She started with empac as an EAP Intern, recently graduated, received her counseling license, and is now a full-time empac team member.

We asked her three questions so you could get to know her a little better!

- What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve received is to break down big tasks into small, realistic tasks. It took a long time for me to learn that I can take my time with projects, that I don’t have to do it all at once, and that my work does not have to be perfect. I have applied this to all areas of my life, including work, school, and my personal life.

- What is your favorite season and why?
My favorite time of year is fall. There are so many things I enjoy about fall, including the colder weather, the changing colors, the start of holidays, and football! This is my happiest time of the year.

- What would you choose to have an unlimited supply of in the office?
If I could choose to have an unlimited supply of anything in the office, I would absolutely choose to have sweet snacks, i.e., cookies, chocolate, etc.

Learn more about Melissa, our team of experts, and how we can help you thrive: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

Do you find yourself focusing too much on the negatives in your life? How can you overcome these thoughts and strive for positivity and happiness?

Take a look at this month's blog by our expert team member, Laila Robinson, BA. She shares what makes her happy and ways you can weave more happiness into your life.

Start thriving now and read the blog: https://empac-eap.com/2024/07/enhance-your-happiness-and-diminish-your-negativity/.

Mark your calendars! Join us for the 2024 empac Annual Meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Niche from 10 a.m. until noon. Enjoy a fun social hour from 9 to 10 a.m.!

Watch for details to come.

Until then, are you looking for ways to improve your mental health and wellness? Reach out to our experts and start thriving today: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

We are so grateful for your partnership, ComfortCare Homes, Inc! Always striving for healthy, thriving people and communities.

We are pleased to share that Becca Barnhouse, MS, has joined the empac team as Employee Training and Development Specialist.

In her role, Becca will provide individual coaching to clients as well as group training to member organizations.

Becca has served her community for the last eight years as a secondary education teacher for the Maize School District, teaching dual credit Psychology and Sociology courses. With a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology and a Mental Health Coaching Certification, we feel blessed to have Becca as a member of our team.

Becca is excited to continue educating individuals and organizations about mental health and wellness strategies as they work to achieve personal and professional goals.

Find out more about Becca and our team of experts who are ready to help you thrive: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

The pandemic affected all of us in different ways. In fact, many black team members discovered how working remotely was a refuge from the judgment and pressure of racism in the workplace. The break also presented an opportunity to be their authentic selves.

We'll discuss these feelings at our next Virtual Black Community Session, Thursday, July 11, from 1 to 2 p.m. In addition, we'll gain a better understanding of anti-blackness, various ways it is woven into the fiber of American culture, its impact on individuals and families, and ways to address it.

Our Training/Employee Development Manager and Coach, Greg Baker, will lead the session.

Please remember, this session is reserved exclusively for those within the black community to provide a safe space for processing experiences or concerns.

NEW!
Please see below the videos you may decide to watch before the session. However, we will also show them DURING our session. You do NOT have to watch them ahead of time to join us.

Video #1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzTtufizkSI
Video #2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlGH8jhTriA

RSVP now: [email protected]. Meeting details/link will be sent to you. See more about Greg and all our experts who can help you thrive: https://empac-eap.com/about/.

We're getting ready to start a fun July 4th holiday weekend. Many of us are hosting BBQs, headed to the beach, or traveling to the lake.

But are you hunched over your work laptop instead, trying to get one more email out or another report finished? And do you find yourself missing out on personal time all year long because you're so engrossed in work?

Being a hard worker is a trait any employer values. But what should you do if you:
- Have no life work-balance
- Don't take breaks
- Are always available - even on vacation or while sick
- Can't say no to any task or project
- Don't want to do anything but work
- Are always stressed

We recommend you talk with your manager or leadership and:
- Establish clear and realistic expectations/priorities on tasks and projects.
- Take regular breaks - go with your team to lunch or coffee. Take a 10-minute walk or grab a healthy snack.
- Serve as a good example yourself -- leave the office at the end of your scheduled work day.
- Take vacation and sick days.
- And when you're out of the office, truly disconnect from work to authentically enjoy your time off.

If you find yourself repeatedly falling into workaholic mode, come talk with us. We understand and will help you live a more healthy, well-balanced life.

Start thriving today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

We are thrilled to announce our team member, Lea Aunins, Director of Partner Relations, has been named to the Wichita Business Journal's Women Who Lead in Sales.

This significant honor means the sales community has recognized her excellence in the industry and her continued service as an exemplary leader who inspires and helps others succeed.

We are so proud of you Lea -- congratulations from all of us!

Thank you, Wichita Business Journal, for honoring Lea.

Supervisors: did you ever wish someone had told you how to be a supervisor? Or are you headed into a new managerial role and need help honing your leadership skills?

Then take a look at this blog by empac CEO Stacey Winter, MS, LCMFT, as she shares her journey to becoming a better leader.

Stacey also unveils how we can help you start your journey now with our new 4-week series, Supervisor Support Sessions, held at our offices each Thursday, starting in two weeks - July 11, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.! Snacks and drinks will be provided.

At each free session, share your challenges and successes in a confidential place to process situations, gain skills, and form supportive peer relationships.

Read our blog, sign up for a session, and start thriving today: https://empac-eap.com/2024/06/start-thriving-with-our-new-supervisor-support-sessions/.

To RSVP now, email: [email protected].

Managers -- are you stressed and seeing no end in sight? You're not alone. A recent study showed 83% of U.S. workers suffer from work-related stress and 54% report that work stress affects their home lives.

We addressed how you can manage stress in last month's Frontline Supervisor Newsletter. When you partner with us, we'll help you develop a mitigation plan to better cope in an intense workplace. The plan includes self-care strategies to prevent burnout including:

- Time management techniques
- Mindful practices
- Physical exercise regimens
- Establishing healthy boundaries between work and personal life

Are you ready to get help with your stress? Start today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

And if you're an empac member and aren't receiving our monthly newsletter, sign up now: https://empac-eap.com/employer/.

"It gives me chills to say that, but it really is true. They make a deep impact more than they may even know." - Wendy Hummell, Health and Wellness Coordinator, Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office.

What is Wendy talking about? Take a look at this video as she explains how our experts helped her team. We provide support through our employee counseling services, coaching sessions, and resources to help you thrive.

Find out what Wendy said about how empac helped her staff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_cprnK-Zco&t=2s.

And get started today: https://empac-eap.com/contact/.

We are pleased to announce empac has been named a finalist for the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce Small Business Awards!

The Chamber's Small Business Awards judges selected nine finalists. Award criteria included business performance, community involvement, and workplace culture.

Thank you to the chamber for recognizing our dedicated and hard-working team -- we are humbled and honored.

We also want to express our gratitude to the treasured partners we serve. Thank you for entrusting your team to us so we can help create healthy, well-balanced people, thriving companies, and strong communities.

Are you ready to thrive? Get started now: https://empac-eap.com/request-a-quote/.

Did you know one in five adults experience mental health problems in a given year?

And the top five mental health disorders affecting men today are:
- depression
- anxiety
- bipolar
- psychosis/schizophrenia
- eating disorders

Men are on our minds, especially with many of us celebrating Father's Day on Sunday and being in the middle of Men's Health Month.

Read more about how men can improve their mental health using a unique checklist from our empac expert and Director of Operations, Michael Brewer, MS, LCMFT, LCAC. Start thriving now: https://empac-eap.com/2024/06/men-tune-up-your-mental-health-with-our-unique-checklist/.