HRFresh Squeeze
Psychological Recovery
Guide for Traumatic Stress and Hurricane Brain
PAGES 11-18
Celebrating Progress! The inaugural Beacon Awards, hosted by GOSHRM, successfully honored achievements in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion!
PAGES 8-9
Fixing the Mental Health Disconnect Between Employers and Employees
PAGES 6-7
Florida Forms Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Coalition; NET Training Institute (NTI) to Execute Initiatives
PAGES 20-21
CONTENTS
President's Message
Page 3
Unexpected Blessings
Pages 5
Fixing the Mental Health Disconnect Between Employers and Employees
Pages 6-7
Celebrating Progress! The inaugural Beacon Awards
Pages 8-9
Psychological Recovery Guide for Traumatic Stress and Hurricane Brain
Pages 11-18
Florida Forms Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Coalition; NET Training Institute (NTI) to Execute Initiatives
Pages 20-21
President's Message
As I wrap up my year as President of Greater Orlando SHRM, I am filled with gratitude and pride for the incredible strides our chapter has made. Together, we have celebrated growth, fostered meaningful partnerships within our Central Florida community, and delivered impactful events that further our mission of supporting HR professionals and advocating for our workforce.
Our chapter’s journey over the last two years has been marked by collaboration and shared vision. From our Mental Health Forum to our Professional Development workshops and Networking Nights, each event has been a testament to the passion and dedication of our members and our Board of Directors. With these strategic initiatives, we have not only strengthened our chapter but also enriched our community, creating lasting partnerships with local organizations that support our goals and amplify our impact.
I extend my deepest thanks to each board member who has dedicated time, creativity, and expertise to make the past two years a success. Your leadership and commitment have set a strong foundation for future achievements, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside each of you.
As we move forward, I am excited to pass the torch to Dr. Lynn Johnson, your 2025 Chapter President. With her experience and vision, I have no doubt that Greater Orlando SHRM will continue to thrive, reach new heights, and support Central Florida’s HR community in meaningful ways.
Thank you all for an unforgettable two years. Here’s to continued growth, partnership, and success in 2025 and beyond!
Warm regards,
Pamela J. McGee
Pamela J. McGee, SHRM-CP, PHR, MBA
2023 - 2024 President, GOSHRM
Pamela J. McGee
Pamela J. McGee, SHRM-CP, PHR, MBA 2024 President, GOSHRM
Pamela is the 2024 President of Greater Orlando SHRM (GOSHRM) and the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources, Talent Management & Total Rewards for Valencia College in Orlando, FL. In addition to holding both Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP) and HRCI (PHR) level certifications, Pam has more than 30+ years of performancedriven experience with 25+ years of combined expertise in Human Resources management, talent acquisition, corporate, government and employment laws. Pamela is a strategy architect in the development of innovative HR initiatives to streamline processes and capitalize on organizational growth opportunities. As AVP at Valencia, Pamela provides vision and leadership for all aspects of the college’s talent management network, including talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, employee development, and employee experience.
GOSHRM HR Fresh Squeeze Newsletter, Page 3
I first heard about Jobs Partnership through GOSHRM in 2017. The Director of Engagement sent out an email to members requesting volunteers to serve as Interview Coaches with Jobs Partnership I would like to say that I volunteered solely out of the goodness of my heart, but in truth, I mainly signed up to earn recertification credits I figured I could earn credits, while also helping others – a win-win I never guessed that seven years later, I would be deeply involved in the Jobs Partnership mission
Since 2017, I have served as a LifeWorks Coach, Resume and Interview Coach, and Instructor. Currently, I am Head Coach at the Reeves Center and serve as the liaison for GOSHRM Under the leadership of Kathleen Daniel, GOSHRM’s Workforce Development Committee collaborates with Jobs Partnership to identify candidates for our Workforce Spotlight program. We also promote volunteer opportunities for GOSHRM members.
Jobs Partnership’s mission is to equip people for life and work with biblical principles They offer a free 12-week training program called LifeWorks that teaches soft skills and connects participants with jobs, education, and community resources They are making a profound difference in countless lives, which alone is reason enough to serve An added bonus? It has changed my life too During my first semester as a coach, as I absorbed the LifeWorks lessons, engaged with participants and fellow coaches, and connected with new people at Jobs Partnership events, I realized that I was benefiting from the program just as much as the participants. It’s the magic of serving, isn’t it? The blessings you give to others often enrich your own life in unexpected ways.
GOSHRM members have a wealth of skills and talents that would greatly benefit Jobs Partnership participants I urge you to consider volunteering to serve as a LifeWorks Coach, Interview Coach, or Resume Coach A new LifeWorks class starts February 2025 Would you consider serving? To learn more or to register as a volunteer, please visit www.jobspartnership.org.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joanne Hamrick, SHRM-SCP, is a Human Resources Consultant specializing in employee relations, leadership development, and compliance for small to medium-sized companies She is also an Adjunct Instructor at Valencia College, where she teaches students how to prepare
for interviews and develop resumes Joanne holds a master’s degree in Human Resources from Rollins College and is passionate about building strong relationships and helping people reach their full potential She is actively involved in her community, volunteering as a Coach and Instructor with Jobs Partnership, participating on the GOSHRM Workforce Readiness Committee, and serving on the vestry at her church When she’s not volunteering or consulting, you can find her on the pickleball court
L to R: Daniell Chistian-Butler (JP staff), Joanne Hamrick, Taneijah Burnham (friend of Daniell Christian-Butler), Sue Crimmins (JP Coach)
L to R: Maria Gonzalez (JP participant), Shari Bartz (JP Coach), Joanne Hamrick, Christy Crotts (JP participant)
The mental health crisis that grips the U.S. has been at least 20 years in the making and documented on every front.
Suicides reached their highest levels since 1941 last year – over 14 7 per 100,000 persons Among indigenous Americans, suicide rates are as much as three times greater.
A recent American Psychiatric Association poll found 43% of adults are more anxious today than in 2023 and 2022, especially about the economy (77%), the election (73%) and gun violence (69%)
No demographic is immune. One in six children aged six to 17 has a mental health disorder The U S is among the developed countries with a maternal mental health crisis among 15% of pregnant women and 19.8% after childbirth.
This affects employers because it affects their people and their families While 63% of employees consider their physical and mental wellbeing “excellent” or “good,” a Deloitte/Workplace Intelligence survey finds that a substantial one-third admitted to being always or often irritable, lonely or depressed And they don’t think their managers care
Employers may be puzzled at the continuing trends – if they realize at all that their people are still struggling despite their efforts Many at the C-suite level don’t, as supports have grown: among large employers last year, 94% strengthened related coverage and support or launched new programs and systems
Still, the mental health crisis is persistent and pervasive, and it ties to a broad swath of well-being issues. A disconnect between employee needs versus what employers provide has contributed to the problem Another survey found 74% of employers expect to increase their commitment to wellbeing, but only half of workers have seen it, only 40% think it’s being done well, and 55% don’t understand their benefits anyway
That’s another facet of the problem Employee assistance programs (EAP) and employee and family assistance programs (EFAP) are often part of benefits Employers that offer a health plan must cover mental health, but those benefits can be limited Just accessing help can be a challenge, from obtaining referrals, retrieving payment accounts, meeting deductibles and even finding an available mental health professional. Often, only a few therapy sessions are offered under an EAP.
Company leaders need to examine their mental health benefits plan to find ways to layer elements in order to plug the gaps. They need to understand what employees need. They must enlist an experienced insurance partner with innovative solutions That’s the way to a comprehensive mental well-being strategy that will provide the resources workers truly need
Five steps will lead the way to meaningful
changes:
Analyze the data. Review claims history, including healthcare and disability claims, costs and duration of leave and prescription drug use If mental wellbeing has been largely ignored, it will be reflected in rising claims costs in those areas
Use data to identify the gaps. Analytics can help answer such questions as: Can employees access counseling without paying a high deductible? Can they find providers willing to take their insurance? Are enough sessions provided through the EAP/EFAP and are employees even aware of the benefit? Are workers in different demographics disproportionately using or finding it difficult to access the benefits?
Up your communication. An organization-wide mental health awareness campaign can help destigmatize mental health issues and make employees aware of available resources. Mandatory mental health training for managers and optional mental health support training for all interested employees will help leaders identify any who may be struggling
Consider adding more robust mental health supports. This might include providing more mental wellness care under the company health plan, adding a meaningful number of therapy visits to an EAP/EFAP, offering digital options, or carving out mental health and contracting with a third-party vendor that offers enhanced support
Make sure leadership supports the strategy Leadership should be committed and accountable for creating the psychologically safe workplace employees need. Obtaining executive support and ensuring they act as mental wellness role models will be paramount for a successful program.
Stephanie Wainwright is an Employee Benefits Practice Leader for Hub International insurance brokerage in Florida, consulting with clients to develop successful benefits programs She has led alternative funding arrangement and cost containment solutions; and understands the needs of aligning longterm EB engagement and cost control objectives to the member experience and organization’s culture.
Celebrating Progress! The inaugural Beacon Awards, hosted by GOSHRM, successfully honored achievements in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion!
By Camille L. Hernandez, MBA
In an inspiring display of unity and celebration, the inaugural Beacon Awards ceremony took place last month, September 17th at the Azalea Lodge, during our monthly GOSHRM-The Greater Orlando Society for
Human Resource Management meeting, marking a significant milestone in recognizing the contributions of individuals and organizations dedicated to fostering inclusive environments The event attracted a diverse audience of community leaders, activists, and corporate representatives, all eager to honor those who have made strides in promoting equity and diversity across various sectors
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from the event's host, GOSHRM President Pamela McGee Her opening remarks set the tone for the night, emphasizing the importance of recognizing both the progress made and the work still required in the journey toward true inclusivity.
The highlight of the evening was the awards presentation, which featured several categories including the individual award winner - GOSHRM Champion of Inclusion, and the organization award winners - GOSHRM Community Impact Award, GOSHRM Inclusive Workplace of the Year, and GOSHRM Rollins Hamilton Holt Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Award. Each recipient shared their journey, offering powerful testimonials that resonated with the audience
Empire Management Group
GOSHRM Community Impact
Orlando Health
GOSHRM Rollins Hamilton Holt Diversity and Inclusion Leadership
Primrose Center, Inc
GOSHRM Inclusive Workplace of the Year
Tolu Adebanjo McKenzie, MD, MPH, FAAP
GOSHRM Champion of Inclusion
Beyond the awards, the event featured networking opportunities which provided a platform for attendees to connect, share best practices, and explore potential collaborations Many left the event with new partnerships and renewed motivation to drive change within their organization and communities.
As the night drew to a close, participants reflected on the evening's successes and the ongoing need for DEI efforts. Plans are already underway for the next awards ceremony, with organizers promising an even bigger celebration of achievements in the coming year.
“Tonight was just the beginning,” said Rene Parson, GOSHRM Director of DEI and one of the event’s organizers “We are committed to making this an annual event that not only celebrates accomplishments but also inspires further action and dialogue in our communities ”
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GOSHRM HR Fresh Squeeze Newsletter, Page 8
Celebrating Progress! Cont.
The inaugural Beacon Awards ceremony was a powerful reminder of the strides being made toward a more inclusive future. By recognizing and honoring those dedicated to fostering diversity and equity, the event ignited a renewed passion for change, proving that when we come together, we can create a more just and inclusive society for all As we move forward, the collective efforts of individuals and organizations will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Camille Hernandez, Assistant Director of Employee Experience in the Organizational Development and Human Resources Department at Valencia College. Prior to this role, she served as the Assistant Director of Conferencing and College Events, and before that, she was the Executive Assistant working with the inaugural team of the Downtown Campus at Valencia College where she began her journey in November 2017 A proud second-generation Puerto Rican/Nuyorican, Camille grew up in Brooklyn, where her diverse childhood experiences shaped her worldview though she often wondered what life in the suburbs might have been like, she cherishes her upbringing With a robust background in administrative and operational support, Camille previously coordinated conferences at prestigious venues such as Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and The
Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas during her tenure at Nielsen Media Research After earning her associate's degree in Human Services from Borough of Manhattan Community College in 2006, Camille, along with her husband and three young sons, moved to Kissimmee, Florida. She went on to earn her B.S. in Human Service Management and dedicated nearly a decade to supporting families affected by abuse, abandonment, and neglect as a Case Manager and Supervisor. Camille's journey as a first-generation graduate student is a proud milestone While balancing full-time work, she took the leap to pursue her Master’s in Business Administration, graduating with pride in 2015 An advocate for community outreach, Camille has made significant contributions in Osceola County, working with underserved families and participating in the Backyard Project to support the homeless In New York, she served as a community board member in District 5, Queens, actively engaging in local initiatives Most recently, Camille has expanded her impact through community engagement efforts, including her role as a DEI committee member for GOSHRM (Greater Orlando Society for Human Resource Management), and participation in SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) and PIVOT 180 at Valencia College, all aimed at fostering her personal and professional growth.
Hurricanes destroy more than buildings, because the psychological impact from “Hurricane Brain” in the days and weeks
following the aftermath of a natural disaster may be the most challenging.
Post Hurricane Stress affects everyone; however, it becomes dangerous if it goes on for an extended period. "Hurricane Brain", from continual trauma and STS, (Secondary Traumatic Stress), can affect adults, children, the elderly and even pets, so it is important watch for the danger signs of this oftenmissed condition.
In natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes the rapid build-up of these psychological symptoms are commonly called “Hurricane Brain” These symptoms include any dramatic change in emotions, behavior, thought patterns or physical symptoms over the next few days, weeks or perhaps even months, based on the level of traumatic exposure Natural disasters bring traumatic stress to everyone, both during and after the Hurricane, and there are necessary actions to keep yourself and those who you care about safe
Hurricane Brain Warning Signs
These signs are indicators that the intense stress from the critical incident is beginning to overwhelm the individual. The longer the stress symptoms occur-the greater the severity of the traumatic event on the individual This does not imply craziness or personal weakness; rather, it simply indicates that the stress levels from the Hurricane were too powerful for the person to manage, and their body is reacting to the abnormal situation of having survived a major trauma
It’s normal to feel completely overwhelmed by a natural disaster like a hurricane, flood, or tornado; however, there are danger signs to watch for in yourself or others that may indicate elevated psychological trauma
Adults or children who display any of the following stress symptoms may need additional emotional support dealing with the events of the crisis It is strongly recommended you seek the appropriate medical or psychological assistance if you see many of the physical, emotional, cognitive or behavioral symptoms listed below in yourself, your coworkers, or someone in your family or home, especially if these symptoms were not present before the hurricane.
Physical Symptoms: Chills, thirst, fatigue, nausea, fainting, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, chest pain, headaches, sleep loss, elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and muscle tremors, difficulty breathing, major changes to appetite or shock symptoms
Emotional Symptoms: Fear, guilt, grief, panic, denial, anxiety, rage, irritability, depression, apprehension, emotional shock, feeling overwhelmed, or a loss of emotional control
Cognitive Symptoms: Confusion, nightmares, uncertainty, hyper-vigilance, suspiciousness, intrusive images, poor problem solving, poor abstract thinking, poor attention/memory and concentration, disorientation of time, places or people, difficulty identifying objects or people along with heightened or lowered alertness
Behavioral Symptoms: Withdrawal, antisocial acts, inability to rest, intensified pacing, erratic movements, changes in social activity, changes in speech patterns, increased caffeine or sugar intake, increased appetite or increased alcohol consumption
If you are in doubt about these symptoms in your life, or someone you care about, it is wise to seek the care of a physician or certified mental health professional Better to actively deal with the stressful emotions directly to help yourself and your loved ones to immediately cope with this crisis because these emotions tend to worsen and get more intense if left untreated Cumulative exposure to trauma can overwhelm anyone
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Hurricane Brain Cont.
If you are in doubt about these symptoms in your life, or someone you care about, it is wise to seek the care of a physician or certified mental health professional Better to actively deal with the stressful emotions directly to help yourself and your loved ones to immediately cope with this crisis because these emotions tend to worsen and get more intense if left untreated. Cumulative exposure to trauma can overwhelm anyone.
Remember there are many experienced professionals who can help you recover during a time of crisis. You do not have to go through crisis recovery alone.
Act now to prevent stress after the Hurricane from continuing to overwhelm you or the people you care about Call a trusted friend to talk through it, reach out to your family doctor, the clergy or a crisis response counselor If you don't know someone to call about these emotional issues, you can reach out for assistance by calling telephone hotlines which are offered at no cost to you
These numbers are often posted by local media, hospitals, mental health associations, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, Samaritans Purse, or FEMA If you, or someone you care about are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, guilt or grief it's important to make the call for professional assistance now to learn how to get past the pressure to begin to feel ‘normal’ again.
How can I help my family get back to "normal" after a major disaster?
Hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, floods and earthquakes are often the most destructive events a person will experience in a lifetime. Hurricanes like Irma, Harvey or Maria are also among the most expensive disasters to recover from financially because of being out of work or not having enough insurance coverage to replace what the Hurricane destroyed.
It may take months to perhaps even a year for everyone to feel that things are back to “normal ” (some refer to this as their “New Normal”)
The psychological impact of the Hurricane will vary widely between people based on factors like- age, previous experiences with natural disaster recovery and most significantly how much stress they already had in their life before the Hurricane made landfall
The more stress someone had in their life before the Hurricane, the longer it takes to recover, and with the additional stress of daily life coupled with the rise in prices and limited supplies, or contractors to help rebuild after a natural disaster, stress levels can quickly increase.
Here are some immediate ways to restore order back into your life after the chaos and confusion that can follow a natural disaster like a hurricane or tornado
1. Reconnect in Relationships You can't get through a crisis alone. Since everyone is impacted differently, it is vitally important to talk about the stress and pressures you experienced with the people closest to you. Reach out to friends and family as soon as possible, and call people you haven't heard from in a while Checking in to ask if they are okay will take a few minutes, but it will empower and help both of you Talk about what each of you experienced through the disaster and how you got through the hurricane, or the aftermath of a tornado or flood
Tremendous connection can occur when you go through a crisis with someone, so this is an especially good time to reach out to friends or family who may have drifted away from your closest circle of relationships Take action to reach out to people with words of encouragement and support, but don't wait for someone else to text, call or email you- because their phone may not work! Seek them out if you don’t hear back then reconnect the relationship while encouraging each other during the rebuilding process. Letting people know you care, and they are not alone will make a positive difference.
2. Rebuild your routines. This is one of the most important factors to rapidly get life back on track because we draw strength and security from a structured daily routine Bed time, dinner time, getting up to go to school, or work, or your house of faith or the gym To regain strength quickly, identify what normal routines you had before the Hurricanethen get back to them as soon as possible. Even if you are staying in a hotel, shelter or with family members, stick with the rituals you typically followed before the Hurricane that made up your daily lifestyle. This way you can feel the predictability of previous patterns and routines regardless of the stress of the changes happening around you. Resilience flows when daily rituals grow.
3. Reach out for faith. In times of major crisis many people turn to the spiritual power of prayer Spiritual resilience is built during the toughest of times because there is tremendous strength in knowing what you believe and living in harmony with those beliefs Plugging into a faith system after the hurricane will allow you to release anxiety over the things you feel like you can’t control Dedicate a few minutes each day to prayer and quiet mediation and the reflection on what matters most You survived a catastrophe, you are alive This is especially important when you or your children may feel lost, alone or afraid Plus, many churches have disaster and recovery teams, support
Hurricane Brain Cont.
services, meals, dry clothing, and even financial assistance available to help people cope with crisis
People of many faith systems believe Jesus taught to help their neighbors, so avoid the tendency of being “too proud” to ask for assistance Having a committed personal faith combined with the connection of a local house of worship can give you a tremendous sense of community to get through this hurricane as well as the ones to come.
4. Retell your story Young and old alike will benefit from hearing about how other people survived what may be the worst natural disaster they will ever experience. There is tremendous power in telling your story; healing power for you and helpful power for others who will gain insight and strength by hearing how creative people can become through the crisis As you speak up about what happened, it will make it easier for other family members or coworkers to talk about their feelings of loss as well Things will never be the same as before, but life will go on and we can rebuild and get through it better together Telling your story now will give you additional strength as well as connect you to the neighbors and friends as they share their story with you Community flows out of common connection and unity
"If
you talk through it, you can get through it."
Dealing directly with your emotions will reduce the tension and stress on you, which allows you to have more energy to deal with a difficult situation However, if you stuff your fears and frustrations in a major disaster, your emotions can quickly blow up without warning Exploding in rage on your children, your marriage partner or a volunteer at a water station will only make a difficult situation worse It’s not their fault, and it’s not yours
Natural disasters can be a terrible time full of loss and difficulty for everyone. By acting now, you can move beyond feeling overwhelmed by intense stress, anger or confusion. As you follow the insight from this psychological recovery guide, you will be taking positive steps to rebuild with the focused energy of a more resilient life for you and your family after a natural disaster.
To best survive the aftermath of a Hurricane, Flood or Tornado, you need a combination of 3 key elements Healthy coping skills 1. Healthy supports and a 2. Healthy perspective 3.
Things may never be the same as they were before the disaster; the following guidelines will give you the key elements needed to get past the overwhelming stress to find even greater strength on the other side.
The most important thing to focus on in a crisis is: “DON'T MAKE A BAD SITUATION WORSE”
Keep this single thought in mind as you begin to sort through the process of stabilizing yourself and those you care about who have been impacted by the hurricane During the storm the goal is to stay safe while surviving your house being torn apart from gale force winds and rain. After the disaster is over and the hurricane passes, or the flood waters recede, the goal is to quickly rebuild the normal life routines you had in your personal and professional life before the hurricane. If you get focused on rebuilding, you will be able to spend your energy in positive ways instead of being in a mental fog of confusion, mingled with panic or regret.
How does a critical incident like this affect kids?
It depends on the age of the child The younger the child, the more they look to their parents for emotional security and strength If a Mom or Dad are “shell-shocked" or “numb” and not able to manage their own emotions or responsibilities; the child will feel extra pressure and become very confused and further stressed Remember, it's normal to be overwhelmed by a major disaster and the loss to your home, or community That is why it's important to take care of yourself to take care of your children and others under your care through the sometimeslengthy period of recovery and rebuilding after the hurricane.
Think about the advice given on commercial airliners to parents traveling with small children “Should there be an unexpected cabin de-pressurization; oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling Place the mask over your nose and mouth like this and then place the mask over the mouth and nose of those around you needing assistance ”
Take care of your own emotional needs first, and then you will be in a stronger position to help those around you If you feel overwhelmed in giving your children or others who may depend on you for support, please ask for help
It's okay to be tired, worn out, stressed or to cry.
That's normal after a natural disaster However, it's not okay to ignore caring for the needs of those counting on you like children, the elderly or pets
Sometimes a parent may need to adjust at work or change their own schedules for a while by delegating some tasks to have time and energy to help their children avoid feeling more pressure from the difficult experience that surviving a major disaster brings. If you feel that your ‘caregiver tank’ is empty, let someone else help you for a while until you get your strength back. That's best for you and for those that you care about.
Dedicate attention to understanding the needs of young children,
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notice what they are saying, drawing or doing to determine if they are still feeling overly stressed from the hurricane
School age kids need to talk, draw pictures or take positive action, (like creating crafts to raise money for kids just like them who are now Hurricane victims because their homes were destroyed), so if you give them something to do to help, they can take positive action and sort through their emotions immediately
High School age kids may try to act "cool or tough" about everything, but often are more scared about the changes, losses and confusion than any other group If they are willing to talk to their siblings, other family members, clergy or counselors it often doesn’t take very long before they can grow strong enough to deal with their emotions and get back to feeling like themselves again.
The greatest danger sign to be alert and aware of is by noticing any dramatic changes in behavior. If a child was always happygo-lucky before the hurricane and now sits all day to watch video footage of the world’s disasters on the news or weather channels- then you may want to figure out why they made such a dramatic shift in personality Watch for other major changes in sleep patterns, school patterns, school performance, peer relations and so on If you see major changes that concern you, it's time to seek professional attention for the child with their pediatrician or with a child behavioral specialist
What are some ways to help our kids talk about Hurricane stress?
You can reach out to children in many ways to help them deal with this stressful time of rebuilding after the Hurricane Talking, writing, drawing, even making up a song about your families experience with the disaster will make the time pass more quickly and may even lighten someone else's load of emotional pain and difficulty while helping you back through the process. Some families describe playing board games like the "worst case scenario," (which is based on actual survival information from a book by the same name). Many of the issues discussed in the game aren't likely to happen to most people on the planet, (such as how to survive a shark attack), however, talking about any crisis event in life can help kids learn the basics of moving from the panic of basic survival to building strength through problem solving.
Are there any "hidden dangers" in media that parents should be concerned about that might make the Hurricane stress worse?
Too much media exposure is dangerous for kids It is better to get a media "news update" once or perhaps at the most, twice a
day to avoid the danger of media over-exposure Leaving the news on all the time might depress the mood of the person who hears it, since trauma victims learn to freeze or go "numb" to the normal emotions of the stressful event This is a common trauma reaction to reserve psychological energy after a disaster If your child didn't watch the morning news programs before the hurricane or tornadoes hit, be cautious about allowing them to watch TV news alone or having long blocks of unaccounted time with too much isolation
Best is to sort through media outlets-like television, Internet, radio or newspapers, which may contain content could be overly stressful or just too depressing for a child to manage. Then set boundaries to protect them from additional stress in media stories, since it is important to protect their home environment and mental state by managing the media exposure around them.
It's wise to move from negatives to positives in highly charged and difficult situations like natural disaster recovery You may have seen enough negative images to last a lifetime, yet some media outlets play scenes from a disaster over again and again Better is to focus on rebuilding and recovery images
Also, parents and kids can sit down and discuss how much negative media they need in their homes After previous disasters some families found not having Internet, cable TV news or loud music while being without electricity after the hurricane allowed them to reconnect as a family with much greater communication
By sitting down and discussing these issues your home can be a more positive place, by creating more positive energy to manage the stress of recovering after this crisis.
Since watching crisis events in other parts of the country might cause more stress in an already stressful situation it's better to focus on your responsibilities today, right in your own community When things in your life are strong again, you and your family won't be as affected by the images of crisis from other places But that's another day, so for now as you recover, it’s better to focus on getting you and your kids though the day that you have been handed without making it harder because of the hidden stress of media overexposure from other national or global disasters
Also, the same principles apply for the aged as for anyone else. Seniors often can spend a tremendous amount of time absorbing negative media images which can be harmful to their wellbeing. Better to get involved in helping others, volunteering or praying for those affected or perhaps donating to help; than to become overwhelmed with the stressors of others by becoming desensitized from dangerous negative media over-exposure.
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What can people expect in the weeks ahead?
“Hurry up and wait," will be the motto some people will think about in the days ahead This is because the daily life activities like filling up a gas tank, taking a warm shower, or driving through a busy intersection with working traffic lights, could have been dramatically disrupted Life is usually out of balance for weeks sometimes even months after a major disaster, and while no one likes it, we all must get through it
There may be long lines for many of the basic products or services necessary to survive or care for our loved ones; so, prepare now for the fact that may be difficult at times. Major Hurricanes can kill hundreds of people, shatter billboards, rip traffic lights from their poles, splinter trees, shred awnings or screen rooms, rip apart electric-cable-phone-Internet transmission lines, snap off traffic signs, seriously damage thousands of homes and cause billions of dollars in damage where they hit, (like Hurricane Katrina or Hurricane Helene affecting hundreds of thousands of people for months of recovery)
The more damage in a community, the longer it takes for some things to even be evaluated for repair and significantly longer than that for them to be replaced It is wise to mentally prepare for the fact that the damage from a major Hurricane could take weeks to clean up and months to perhaps even up to a year to rebuild
Know this will be hard on everyone involved but people get through it with a lot less stress when they work together Here's a formula to help victims recover from this type of crisis event faster. It spells out the word "P.A.T." which stands for Patience, Attitude, and Trust.
Patience: Things are going to take a lot longer than normal. Focus on the reality of why things are disorganized or confusing after the Hurricane, instead of getting angry at everything that doesn't go your way The more you let your anger build, the more likely you will dump it on the people you are closest to at home That is irresponsible and hurtful, so don't do it! Deal directly with the pressure of this recovery time by building a deeper understanding of the situation and what you can do about it, instead of feeling angry and helpless about what you can't do anything about during this time of disaster recovery Being moody and continually irritated will not make things better for anyone, but it can make a bad situation worse for everyone involved Why add more stress to an already over-stressed situation?
Attitude: In a crisis you can't afford to waste even a drop of valuable resources like water or gasoline-and you should be equally cautious about wasting emotional energy by worrying about things you can't change. It's time to go with the flow of difficult situations, instead of trying to fight against it. You can't control the fact that this difficult situation has happened, and if you try it hyper-control something as big as a natural disaster it will only lead to greater levels of anxiety and stress for you. Better to keep focused on positive things like counting your blessings instead of counting your problems. Anxiety, stress, worry and chronic sleep loss can take a bad situation like this one and turn it into an abusive, or out of control one in a matter of days Protect your attitude and you will significantly protect your ability to deal with the challenges that lie ahead
Trust: This can be hard because people tend to feel angry and resentful in the days or weeks after a critical incident However, it is essential to know the utility, construction and recovery crews responsible for taking action to repair the daily life activities we tend to take for granted, (like gasoline, electricity, water, sewage, gas, phone, Internet and cell service), are already working 24/7 shifts to accomplish that important goal of rebuilding basic services disrupted by the disaster
This includes staff from the power company, phone company, tree services, cell phone providers, cable television workers, Internet providers, insurance adjusters, FEMA workers, the department of transportation workers replacing signs and traffic lights, fire fighters, police officers, doctors, nurses, school board officials, grocery store workers, gas station attendants, yard debris collectors and on and on.
Trust everyone is doing the best that they can to get things back on track Emergency repair crews often work double time to get our homes, schools and businesses back on track Even better, stop and thank them with your kids if you have a chance A kind word of “thanks” goes a long way to reduce the stress and frustration these professionals feel in rebuilding and maintaining essential services in our community
Is it wise to involve kids in the cleanup and recovery process?
Yes, if it is physically safe, *
*IMPORTANT: Think about the term, “childproofed home” as you determine what environment would be safe for your youngest children or grandchildren to be walking through or around. If they normally aren't around power tools or gas-
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Hurricane Brain Cont.
powered construction equipment like generators or chainsaws, this is not the time to introduce them to it Be safe and don't make a stressful situation worse by risking physical injury to yourself, your children or those you care about )
So, if it is physically safe, the entire family might visit their damaged home together It is okay to do clean up and recovery work together as well, since this Hurricane is bigger than any one person could clean up Stressful events like this often make a marriage or family stronger, because instead of just one person dealing with the loss, the entire family joins in to deal with it together It's very unhealthy to play the “hero” and try to do everything by yourself as a parent or legal guardian because it models being a lone ranger during a crisis.
The ‘lone ranger ’ mentality eventually leads to someone becoming the ‘lonely ranger ’ because you can't get through a crisis alone, nor should you try. We need each other more than ever to successfully manage crisis events like natural disasters. Another reason this is so important is that viewing the destruction firsthand, (obviously in age-appropriate ways), can be one of the most effective ways to allow children to see how dangerous Hurricanes can be And the most important reason to model this behavior to our younger kids is because they learn from earliest childhood that families who stick together through the entire recovery process can get through it better and faster than those who go it alone
On another note, keep your repair work in perspective with your life priorities Remember it is impossible to fix everything destroyed in a single day, so to risk emotional injury to your children or spouse by yelling, screaming or shouting during the cleanup process simply isn’t worth it By pacing yourself and working at the rebuilding process together as a family, you can grow closer on the other side of the Hurricane.
Blow up with rage at the people you are closest to and you risk damaging a relationship far more valuable than your roof
Is it okay to talk about what happened to our family with others?
Silence is not golden in a critical incident, rather, it's dangerous One of the best things you can do to help yourself and help others is to tell your story Talk about where you were when the Hurricane came through Talk about how you and your loved ones made it through the crisis to the other side Keep talking and make it a point to listen carefully as you hear the stories of others who survived the disaster This is important
for everyone involved, kids, grandparents, moms, dads, employees, employers, firefighters, police officers, nurses, teachers, students and on and on
Everyone has a story about how they got through the disaster and telling it helps them heal and may give you a new chance to connect with your family, neighbors and coworkers in a powerful way Also, don't miss asking your personal priest, rabbi, cleric, pastor or spiritual caregiver to share their story; since many times these professionals are so busy listening to the needs of others, they neglect to take time to reduce the stress that they feel
Why do some people seem to become bitter after a crisis instead of just being grateful to be alive?
A major disaster “dumps out” whatever is inside a person, so you will see the best and the worst of behavior happening in the days ahead A critical incident or natural disaster which overwhelms an entire community creates an equal sized emotional reaction in people, so be prepared for some unusual reactions in yourself and the people around you.
Sometimes people who were the most hurting before the Hurricane will act wonderful and kind on the other side of recovering from this type of traumatic event. It's like they find a hidden strength in a crisis and reach out to others in a new way. Others just go numb and will seem to act like robots for a while. Some people will get loud - others will become unusually quiet.
There are many reasons for the wide range of emotional response; with a common factor being how many difficult and traumatic experiences they may have already witnessed in their lives
Hopefully, some people may have already sorted through these deep hurts and strong emotions before a killer Hurricane hits If so, they may have a deeper understanding of the need for compassion to others in a crisis They understand about the Hurricanes in life and react with kindness, sometimes it may even seem to come automatically for them to reach out with positive emotions instead of being critical
Other people might become completely hateful and mean in everything that they say and do, even if they didn’t act that way before the Hurricane. They may even try to chase you off with a broom if you are trying to help them clean up broken limbs in their yard! Don't panic, they probably aren't having a breakdown, rather it's likely a behavior some people call being ‘hardhearted.’
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This often comes from years ’ worth of unresolved past hurts being piled up and never addressed or resolved Try not to take it personally if the criticism comes your way Remember the rule that "hurt people- hurt people" and take their negative comments with a ‘grain of salt’ while still attempting to maintain integrity in caring for others who may be able to receive the offer of a helping hand to get through this difficult time.
Remember the rule that "hurt people- hurt people" and take their negative comments with a ‘grain of salt’ while still attempting to maintain integrity in caring for others who may be able to receive the offer of a helping hand to get through this difficult time
What is survivor guilt and how does it negatively impact people?
Thousands of people who didn't lose power, have their homes damaged or lose basic services often feel uncomfortable because they didn’t experience much difficulty or hardship during the Hurricane. Sometimes it is because others experienced it much worse, so they abandon the issues at their home to rush and help others. Remember to manage your affairs at home and work in a responsible way, and to pace yourself through the process.
Doing too much/too soon for others can exhaust you and limit your ability to live out your priorities with your immediate family Helping others at the expense of protecting and helping your own family may feel appropriate after a disaster, but it misplaces the important priority of caring for those closest to you first, (there are emergency exceptions to this principle at times) Best is to pace yourself in the process of recovering and rebuilding Hurricane or floods come to an end, but if you over do-things you may end up hurting yourself and make your own future worse If your home is stable and you can get to work, be grateful, and don't allow the inconveniences of daily life, like having to do without hot water, WI/fi, air conditioning or cable for a while, get you down and remember, if you can talk through it, you can get through it
So many people are worse off than me- how can I decide who to help?
Help others when you can, but not at the expense of making your situation worse. A simple way to decide who to help and when it might be wrong to help is to consider these three key elements.
Evaluate Relationship: First determine your level of relationship to the people in need Begin with ‘self-care’ and practice the steps to keep yourself safe in the recovery and rebuilding process If you get seriously hurt trying to help
someone else, you haven’t really helped anyone and in fact may make a bad situation much worse for everyone Once you know you are safe and stable, then reach out to offer help your closest relationships, which are usually the people you live with or around This includes your family, children, partner, elder adults who may live with or near you and your friends Not everyone outside of your closest ‘circle’ may need your help or assistance, but it’s wise to ask them just in case.
Once you get past those closest to you, then you can reach out to aid those in need you may know of in your neighborhood, community or workplace. After you can help the people at that level of relationship, then you can reach out to those you may be less connected to in your community, state or region of the country. Everyone has needs, and it is for certain everyone affected by the disaster will need some level of help to get through this Hurricane recovery process. ‘Lone rangers ’ wear out fast and eventually can’t help anyone, so help others when you can and allow them to help you as the level of relationship might offer Allowing them to help you creates a greater sense of relationship and connection which makes you both stronger now and, in the years, to come
Measure Resources: If you are attempting to reach out to help others, you need to first evaluate what resources you must work with These are the very limited supplies of time, energy people and money Most people need to maintain responsibility to the important elements of their jobs no matter what the Hurricane damage may have done to their place of business If you are in a situation that requires a 40-hour week commitment during the Hurricane rebuilding process, you may have limited supplies of time and energy at the end of the day to help others in need. Wise financial planning may have given you a financial nest egg, but no one has enough money to solve all the crisis events in our world. If you don’t have the resources of time, energy, people and money to responsibly care for you and those who depend on you, it is not wise to spend those limited resources on strangers. Don’t let the crisis events of others in desperate situations you may see in a television commercial get in the way of caring for those closest to you As you wisely manage your home resources in connection to your circle of closest friends and family members – everyone can grow stronger after the Hurricane
Do the Right Thing: After you have determined the level of relationship and then measured the resources available to help, you are ready to apply these three questions to wisely help others impacted by the Hurricane
1. Is there a Rule? Consider if this situation falls under the guidelines of an accepted standard in our society, such as a law, statue, spiritual principle or guideline.
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Hurricane Brain Cont.
For instance, if I’m in a hurry and racing to get to a store to buy Hurricane supplies and cause an automobile accident it’s clearly my fault and I must pay for the damages. However, many issues that arise out of a disaster aren’t very easy to understand and don’t fit into commonly known laws, statutes or principles. When that happens, ask yourself the next question.
2. Is it responsible? Does the situation you are considering getting involved with make common sense or seem to be a wise use of time, energy or money as discussed earlier?
If it seems impulsive or poorly thought out, wisdom suggests that waiting until a better plan could be developed would bring better and longer lasting results. This approach also helps prevent accidents after a disaster because considering the responsible path may prevent bad decisions that could have been well meaning but brought more problems than solutions. Like when a well-meaning person buys a chainsaw to cut a tree off of a neighbor’s house and hasn’t stopped to realize they have never used a chain saw! There are often more accidents or deaths in the days after a major disaster because of irresponsible or impulsive decisions
Prevent that by taking time to seriously think through what your involvement will accomplish As a wise carpenter once said,” measure twice-cut once ”
3. Is it responsible? Consider the real reasons that led you to believe you are the best person to jump in to help others in this situation Do you have the skill set, the experience or training to perform certain tasks that you are considering?
An example of this would be well meaning people who show up to help after an accident, but don’t have the medical training to even know what to do, or people who really want to help with patching holes in roofs or removing tree limbs tangled up in power lines
It is unreasonable and irresponsible to place yourself into a dangerous situation you aren’t prepared to deal with. A better approach is to assess what you reasonably can do right now and then do it. (Some examples would be calling 911 to get medical help, or waiting in line for ice and bottled water for a neighbor, or doing five loads of laundry for someone who doesn’t have electricity, or letting someone use your cell phone to call their family members and let them know they are safe after the Hurricane, or offering to buy lunch at a fast-food restaurant for a tired mother with small children who just need to get out of a hot house for a few hours to take a break until the air conditioning is repaired) There are countless things you can do to add value in a crisis situation without being in the wrong place at the wrong time, which creates problems for others Taking reasonable action brings positive results
Following these steps will allow you to grow stronger through the Hurricane, while helping others to grow along with you on the journey of rebuilding a community after the Hurricane.
What should people consider when first returning to their homes after being evacuated?
You need to mentally prepare for the loss by remembering that things in this life can be damaged by wind, water, fire and falling trees Our lives and the lives of those we love are much more valuable than anything in our homes Whatever the destruction looks like now, remember that it can and eventually will be repaired in time
"If you talk through it, you can get through
it."
Remind yourself that, "It's just stuff," or "our family is safe-and that's all that matters since the rest is just a house that can be replaced "
Changing your mind about things will allow you to control your most powerful asset, your own mental drives, personal beliefs and choices, which is the emotional "grid": all other emotions go through Change that, and you will be able to make resilient changes in the rest of your life after the storm
What other strategies can encourage people through the recovery?
Stress can lead you to resilient strength, which is needed to grow through a difficult situation. You can make it through the crisis and survive when you take action to connect to your supports, use positive coping skills and develop the mindset of looking for meaning and connection
No matter the size of crisis event, you can find strength after the Hurricane. Following the practical applications in this natural disaster recovery guide will allow you to begin building strength back into your personal and professional life As you grow stronger you can tell others, which will encourage them to press on as they rebuild their lives right next to yours Stronger people create stronger communities which is the journey you have already begun I encourage you to stay with it as you build an even stronger life, family and community after the Hurricane
Florida's Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Coalition has officially launched in the Sunshine State where drugs and alcohol addiction continue to plague the region. The Coalition will design RFW programs and develop formal standards and application and training processes for businesses to become certified as Recovery Friendly Workplaces.
ORLANDO, Fla , Aug 19, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ --
Florida's Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Coalition has officially launched in the Sunshine State where drugs and alcohol addiction continue to plague the region The Coalition will design RFW programs and develop formal standards and application and training processes for businesses to become certified as Recovery Friendly Workplaces
Addiction in the workplace is a costly challenge to individuals and businesses The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates it costs U.S. businesses approximately $81 billion annually from lost productivity, increased healthcare expenditures, and lost work hours.
Government-supported at the national, state and local levels, the RFW-FL Coalition is a groundbreaking initiative tasked with solving the complex challenges of addiction and recovery in the workplace. In addition to government backing, Florida's RFW Coalition includes the support of local and state businesses, training and educational institutions, the state's extensive treatment community as well as individuals in recovery.
NET to Drive RFW-FL Efforts
The NET Training Institute (NTI), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing workplace wellness, has been appointed to spearhead Florida's RFW initiatives As the official Administrative Agency, this designation highlights NTI's commitment to creating supportive and recovery-focused work environments In this capacity NTI will produce a Center of Excellence for Florida's participation in this critical nationwide effort
"The NET's administrative role reflects its mission to cultivate workplaces that prioritize the recovery and wellbeing of all employees," said Coalition Co-chair, Cheryl Brown Merriwether, vice president and executive director of the International Center for Addiction and Recovery Education (ICARE), a division of NTI. "We look forward to partnering with employers statewide to create environments rooted in compassion, understanding, and support."
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Local Heavyweights Lead Coalition
The RFW-FL Coalition's leadership team includes Co-chairs Merriwether and Richard Riccardi, founder and CEO of Fellowship Recovery Community Organization Ashley Grimes has been named Executive Director
Cheryl Brown Merriwether brings over two decades of experience in corporate HR management and addiction recovery awareness to her role at NTI, where she oversees operations and student support services Merriwether is the Immediate Past President of the Greater Orlando Society for Human Resources (GOSHRM) and an active Board Member of Project Opioid
Richard (Rick) Riccardi founded the Fellowship Recovery Community Organization, a nonprofit providing recovery support services across Broward County With 30 years in long-term recovery, Riccardi advocates for those with substance use disorders and holds several leadership roles in local community organizations Connect on LinkedIn.
RICK RICCARDI ASHLEY GRIMES
Ashley Grimes brings her expertise in the addiction community to the RFW-FL Coalition. Past President of the Florida National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Board and Executive Director of NAMI FL, Grimes is an iconic figure in the mental health/recovery community. She was named to the Florida Health Care Power 100 recognizing key influencers. Connect on LinkedIn.
National Roots Take Hold
The RFW concept began in New Hampshire in 2018 under Governor Sununu and has gained national traction In November 2023, the Biden-Harris administration released the Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit for organizations seeking to create a recovery supportive culture The Global Recovery Initiatives Foundation (GRI) established the National RFW Institute in January 2024 The nationwide effort aims to create healthy and safe workplaces, support workers who are struggling with substance use disorder, and facilitate opportunities for individuals in recovery to enter or reenter the workforce
The RFW-FL initiative signals a collaborative effort between federal and state governments to address substance use disorder as a medical condition This partnership underscores the importance of implementing solutions at both the state and national levels to support individuals in recovery
Merriwether's appointment to the National Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute's Steering Committee earlier this year is a notable achievement. These national standards for RFW certification for large-scale employers across multiple states were established in May 2024. The Florida RFW Coalition is tasked with creating its own statelevel standards and certification processes that can mirror or deviate from national standards based on Florida's unique addiction challenges
About NET Training Institute (NTI)
NET Training Institute (NTI) is dedicated to nurturing, equipping, and training front-line workers and professionals seeking practical skills in addiction recovery Since its inception in 1996, NTI has focused on providing hands-on training for counselors, therapists, and other practitioners
Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1998, NTI has trained 40,000 students worldwide, including those from India, Egypt, Russia, Finland, Ghana, Ireland, Central and South America, Pakistan, South Africa, the Philippines, Singapore, Iran, Sri Lanka, the UK, Canada, and Bermuda.
NTI's curriculum adheres to international standards set by various professional addiction certification boards, offering a unique and comprehensive training experience. The NET Training Institute remains committed to advancing addiction recovery education with a focus on practical, applicable skills for professionals across the globe. Visit NTI's website for additional information.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cheryl Brown Merriwether, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CPRC, CRSS brings over two decades of experience in corporate HR management at AT&T, addiction recovery awareness, and adult education to the International
Center for Addiction and Recovery Education (ICARE) As VP and Executive Director, she oversees and directs the administration, operations, and student support services for ICARE’s three divisions, ICARE Workforce Solutions™, International Association of Professional Recovery Coaches (IAPRC) and NET Institute.
2024 Board of Directors
President: Pamela McGee, SHRM-CP, PHR
Past President: Cheryl Brown Merriwether, SHRM-SCP, SPHR
President-Elect: Dr. Lynn Johnson, PhD, SHRM-SCP
Finance: John Kinloch, SHRM-CP, PHR
Secretary: Crystal Palacios, SHRM-CP
Certification : Adam Primi, SHRM-SCP
College Relations: Crystal Palacios, SHRM-CP
Diversity & Inclusion: Rene Parson, SHRM-SCP
Engagement: Sara Colindres
Foundation : Marysol Fuhr de Blanch, SHRM-SCP, SPHR
Hospitality: Jose Bracero
Legislative: Justin McConnell
Social Media Director: Seychelle Hercules Padgett
Membership (External): Raquel Perez, SHRM-CP
Membership (Internal): Kelley Diona Miller, SHRM-CP
Non-Dues Revenue: Michael Jamieson
Programs: Jenay Byrd, SHRM-CP
Technology: Natalia Cardona
Workforce Readiness: Dr Kathleen Daniel, PhD
Honorary Counsel: Patrick Muldowney
