Page 3 - MILConnection_Spring 2020

from the service center

As we all try to navigate the difficult times surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, we hope this
quarter’s newsletter will help bring us all together and remind us of what truly matters: our people.
Please know your health and safety are our first and foremost concerns and encourage everyone to
take precautions to stay healthy. Many of our customers have implemented alternating schedules
for employees who need to report to onsite projects; and we thank those of you who do so—please
stay safe! We hope all of you will continue to abide by quarantine and social distancing guidelines
in your area. If anyone needs additional support, please utilize MIL’s Employee Assistance Program,
a free and confidential service. For all employee resources and updates, please check our MILtranet
“MIL Guidance on COVID-19” page at any time.

COVID-19: Managing stress & anxiety

COVID-19 is a health concern that has been sweeping over the globe in the last few months. Although the virus is being taken
extremely seriously at MIL, it is important that we do not let the virus control all aspects of our lives. The following suggestions are
simple and effective approaches to managing our stress and anxiety during this difficult time, and can help to improve our overall
emotional and physical well-being.

Recognize: What we are facing is hard and many are grieving their old way of life. Listen to your body and take care of yourself
by accepting a wide range of common reactions you may be experiencing. Having feelings of anxiety, panic, worry, and anger are
completely normal and okay. Be kind to yourself as you may face difficulty in concentration levels and sleeping, including feeling
helpless, social withdrawal, and hyper-vigilance to our health and bodies. Breathe through it and know that your feelings have a
beginning and an end.
Know the facts: Do your best to stay updated but not inundated. Keep up with the facts from reliable resources, including the
Health Department, World Health Organization, and CDC.

Take care of yourself: Focus on things you CAN control. Be sure to stay vigilant about washing your hands with soap and water, or
an alcohol-based sanitizer, while avoiding touching your face. Remembering to cough/sneeze into a tissue or sleeve is basic but as
we know helps so much to control spread. Of course, if you can, avoid contact with those who are sick and absolutely stay home if
you become ill.

Focus on the now: Limit attention to things that are not in your control to lessen your worry and unease. Although it is easy to
read updates on the virus all day, remember to take breaks from news and focus on positive things in your life.
Practice kindness: Uncertain times can breed anxious thoughts and behaviors. Understanding everyone is doing the best they
can with what they have is important to keep in mind. People will still get sick with common colds, regular flus, and viruses…
not everything is a threat. It is important to maintain a self-aware attitude and practice kindness during this difficult time, whilst
avoiding stigmatization in our communities.
Stay connected: Maintaining social networks provide valuable outlets to share our feelings, relieve stress, and maintain a sense of
normalcy.
Stay active: Participating in healthy leisure activities such as a walk, hike, or bike ride help maintain good health. If you can, take
advantage of your outdoor spaces at home. Fresh air and sunshine may help to lift your mood if you are feeling overwhelmed.

MIL employees and families who are overwhelmed, worried, stressed, or anxious can seek additional professional mental health
support. The MIL Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is here to help. EAP is completely free and confidential and can work as
a counsel resource for employees and eligible families who may need support coping with the stress and anxiety relating to the
outbreak of COVID-19. For additional support or information, please contact HR@milcorp.com.

Spring 2020 | The MIL Connection | 3