A Healthy Outlook Newsletter from your MCPS Employee Assistance Program

Making the Most of Summer

Whether you are a 10-month employee or a 12-month employee, the warm weather and summer break for students brings plenty of opportunities for staff to recharge. Here are a few ways to make the most of the summer months:

Take time to reflect honestly about this school year while it's still fresh on your mind. Identify what went well that you want to celebrate and what did not go well that you'd like to change next year. You can do this by thinking about the classroom or your daily work environment and by thinking about your personal habits. For example, did you set and keep boundaries about checking emails after-hours? Did you maintain your personal relationships? Did you make time for movement and hobbies? Reflect on your victories and struggles from this school year, both in and outside of work.

Embrace self-care. Self care can look different for everyone. There's no one right way to take care of yourself. The following are ideas to keep in mind as you embrace a summer of self-care:

• Read. Try reading a book for fun or a book that will expand your professional development. All MCPS employees are eligible for a free library card with Montgomery County Public Libraries even if you don't live in Montgomery County. You can download free e-books, audiobooks, music, or check out books in person at any of the 20+ library branches.

• Get in the water! Pools are open for the summer. Take a break from the summer heat and visit a community pool, recreation center, water park, or local beach. Did you know that permanent MCPS employees have free access to all 20 Montgomery County recreation facilities, including swimming pools? You are also eligible for a 20% discount on an annual pool pass for your family members. Learn more at the link below.

• Move your body. Practice meaningful ways to move your body. Some of us may struggle to find the motivation to exercise, or have a rigid definition of what exercise looks like based on previous experiences. Practice reframing what it means for you to be active. What types of movement bring joy or a sense of accomplishment? You can sign up for the Well Aware daily email distribution list to receive free exercise classes, including Zumba, Yoga, HIITCamp, Barre, and more all summer long.

• Change of scenery. Summer is a great time to take a vacation or experience something new. If you have a vacation planned this summer, think about how you can fully unplug and enjoy the time alone or with your loved ones. If you don't have a vacation scheduled, there are plenty of beautiful public state parks in Maryland that offer a change of scenery and a chance to explore somewhere new.

• Reset your sleeping habits. Have you struggled with getting a good night's sleep? There are minor changes you can make to improve the quality of your sleep this summer. Learn more about these tips to establish healthy sleep habits from our EAP partner, Kepro.

• Start a new hobby. Summer is a great opportunity to try something new or revisit an old hobby. Pottery, recreational sports, photography, rollerblading, hiking, and knitting are just a few ideas. Write five things you are interested in and pick one to start this summer.

Taking the time to build or revamp your personal self-care habits can help you be present and make the most of these months. Developing a strong self-care routine this summer can also help you maintain these habits when you become busy during the school year.

Coping with Change

The end of the 2021-2022 school year is here. As we enter Fiscal Year 2023 and get ready for the 2022-2023 school year, we are all likely preparing for some change. Whether it's a new position, a new school, new colleagues, a new supervisor, retirement, or a new group of students, change is inevitable. Some may be excited about these changes and others may be nervous about an uncertain future. How you think about these changes for next school year may depend on how much control you have over the change, how much time you have to adapt, and your previous experience with change.

Change often involves a feeling or sense of loss. Even when we welcome a change and feel excited for something new, we must say goodbye to what we've grown used to. It can be difficult to let go of what you've known and transition to something new. Transitions take time and adjusting to change will not happen overnight. The following tips may be helpful as you cope with change in preparation for next school year:

• Ask for clarification. If you are confused about the change or don't understand what it means for you and your job, ask questions to learn more.
• Share your feelings. Whether you are excited about this change, nervous, or something else, share how you feel with others around you. Talking about your feelings with those you trust can help as you adapt to change.
• Be patient with yourself and with others. Coming to terms with change may be easier for some and harder for others. Go at your own pace and be gentle with those who take longer to adjust.
• Practice reframing. Change is coming; think about this change as an opportunity for something new. What personal goals can you set for yourself during this transition?
• Take time to care for yourself. Focus on aspects of your life that are going well and that you can control. Make time for activities that make you smile and bring joy. Try to avoid engaging in thoughts that lead to feelings of excessive worry. Practice healthy habits by drinking plenty of water, eating nourishing foods, moving your body, and getting restful sleep. Mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing are also great stress relievers.

Your EAP is here for support. The EAP offers no-cost, confidential information, support, counseling and referrals. Contact the MCPS In-House EAP at 240-314-1040 (Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) or our EAP partner, Kepro at 866-496-9599 (available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year).

Ask the EAP

Q: Is the EAP available during the summer?

A: Yes! The EAP is open during the summer months and a range of options are available, including no-cost and confidential virtual or in-person counseling. You can reach the In-House EAP at 240-314-1040 (Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) or Kepro at 866-496-9599 (24/7/365) to schedule an appointment. Summer is also a great time to check out our websites.

Do you have a general question for the EAP you would like to see answered in A Healthy Outlook? Submit your question via email to Megan Connaughton at Megan_R_Connaughton@mcpsmd.org.