INSIDE OKDHS -- UNPLUGGED

(music plays) 

When it's time to relax, do you completely surrender? Some people find it difficult to completely let go: constantly checking the computer and phone, flipping the channels afraid of missing out, multi-tasking themselves into a frenzy. A good practice of self-care is to unplug completely for at least an hour a day.

Set aside a specific time. If you haven't planned for it, it probably won't happen. Something else will draw your attention. Be willing to be still. If you want an activity, choose something that’s soothing to you. Put that Down!

If crossword puzzles make you anxious, skip that. If knitting busies your hands but lets your mind spin, pick something else. A cleared mind allows solutions to arise that a furious mind may not allow. That wired feeling eventually shuts off, if you insist on resisting the need to check back in with the world.

Remember, whatever issue you are struggling with will still be waiting for you after your hour of peace. But you just might return to it with a new perspective.

You may also find that not all problems are yours to solve and that some questions just don't have an answer. Anticipating and worrying won't fix them.

After you have relaxed consistently you can see that you have been staying plugged in out of pure habit and that you didn't miss out on a thing.
If you need assistance dealing with an issue, please utilize the Employee Assistance Program. OKDHS provides up to six counseling sessions per year for employees and their family living in the home.

EAP helps employees find solutions to parenting and family concerns, emotional stress, drug and alcohol problems, job-related issues, financial matters and legal matters. 

These services are provided by professionals through the INTEGRIS Corporate Assistance Program at no cost to the employee or their family members. EAP services are strictly confidential. Taking a daily window of time to unplug from stimulation and activated thought is a great way to take care of yourself.

Take Time to Take Care.