Mass General Brigham Employee Assistance Program Offers Support about the Ukraine Invasion

The tragic situation in Ukraine continues. This time is incredibly sad, stressful and fear-inducing. The impact on those directly involved and those with family members in the zone of danger is unfathomable. There are also secondary effects on some who are exposed to the war via the news and those who may have a history of trauma.

No one can predict how the events in Ukraine will unfold. In the context of the cumulative stress of the news about Ukraine and the significant challenges over the last 2 years, it’s a good time to take stock of how you can care for yourself and your family.

• Consider how much news or social media participation is healthy or necessary for your own comfort and how the exposure affects your ability to cope
• Be aware of  how your children are processing the war
• Focus on news stories that are positive, such as accounts of MGB staff on the ground,  examples of selflessness and courage and patriotism
• A common source of anxiety is not having access to information. Here are some resources for those directly impacted:

Information for those in Ukraine & Eastern Europe
International Rescue Committee – For those in Ukraine & Surrounding Areas
Military One Source – Ukraine Crisis Resources

Supports for American Military & Families
MGH Home Base Program 
NCTSN – Help for US Military Members and Families
EAP Veteran Resources

• You can always rely on well-being activities to find some balance
• Focus on things that are within your control
• Consider opportunities to build your resilience
• Take advantage of the early Spring weather and get outside to exercise
• As people who work in healthcare, we are fulfilled when we find a way to give. Here are some reputable organizations:

General Assistance 
Charity Navigator – Ukraine – Highly Rated Charities for Aid, Recovery & Peace-Building efforts
International Committee of the Red Cross
Project Cure
CARE
World Central Kitchen
Global Giving
UN Refugee Agency
Convoy of Hope
Nova Ukraine
The International Fellowship of Christians & Jews
Catholic Relief Services
Revived Soldiers Ukraine
Team Rubicon USA – Supporting the Crisis in Ukraine

Medical
International Medical Corps
Polish Medical Mission
Direct Relief
Project Hope

Children
UNICEF
Voices of Children
Save the Children
Sunflower of Peace

Pets
Humane Society International
Network for Animals
Happy Paw
IFAW
American Humane

• Reach out for help if you find you are struggling to cope on your own

The EAP is here to help those who need individual support coping with the events in Ukraine. The program offers free and confidential services for employees and immediate household family members. EAP records are separate from medical and HR records. Contact the EAP at 866-724-4327, or request an appointment via our online form for confidential assistance.