MAP

Talking About Emotions

One of the strongest predictors of health and well-being is emotional intelligence, characterized by the ability to recognize, manage, and communicate effectively around one’s own emotions and those of others.

Benefits associated with constructive emotional expression include better physical health, strengthened interpersonal relationships, reduced stress levels, lower levels of loneliness, higher self-esteem, improved decision making and problem-solving skills, and stronger concentration and job performance, as well as reduced absenteeism from work.

Yet with so many compelling reasons to focus on building emotional intelligence and incorporating emotional expression into daily life, many continue to underprioritize or side-step this health and wellness initiative.

Most men in North America report that they are punished for expressing their emotions, even if they believe it is important to do so. The social consequences lead many men to suppress emotions rather than express them.

Suppressive behaviors include changing one’s demeanor to appear more masculine, holding back tears to preserve the masculinity image, and avoiding talking to others about a difficult problem. These behaviors may be linked to some of the grimmer data around high rates of suicidality, depression, and burnout within the trades.

The hopeful news is that change is possible and emotional intelligence can be cultivated. It is important to start by committing to overcoming personal barriers that limit emotional expression, such as internalized stigma or shame. Weighing the potential rewards of routine and consistent emotional expression against the potential costs can be a useful tool for encouraging a pivot in how you approach emotional health.

If you or a loved one needs help, or would like more information about this topic, please call MAP for free, confidential support at 1-833-MAP-TALK, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST. //

MAP WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA JACOBI AS KAREN GREAR RETIRES

Dr. Karen Grear retired on August 31, after 24 years of dedicated service as Director of BAC’s Member Assistance Program (MAP). Alexandra Jacobi, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who joined BAC MAP as Assistant Director in 2018, now serves as the Department’s Director.

Prior to joining BAC, Jacobi provided behavioral health and care coordination services for a managed healthcare plan. She specialized in the implementation of focused interventions with insights of healthcare systems. She also worked at an outpatient mental health clinic in Columbia, MD for several years in a counseling capacity.

Jacobi earned her graduate degree in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University in Maryland, completed her training at Johns Hopkins Hospital Center for Addiction, and performed cognitive, psychosocial and behavioral evaluations with Baltimore City Public Schools. She is a member of NABTU’s Opioid Task Force. “I take great pride in my family’s connection to the construction industry as my maternal grandfather worked much of his career in the trades,” Jacobi said. “I look forward to serving with an impassioned commitment to providing the greatest level of support, guidance, service, and care to our members and their families.” //

Director Alexandra Jacobi