FEMA Highlights Holiday Gifts That Increase Preparedness

Release Number: HQ-09-149

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This year Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has assembled a list of gift ideas for the holidays to help keep your family and friends prepared. Emergencies can happen at any moment; these gifts can serve as a great starting point to ensure that your friends and family have an emergency communications plan, a disaster supply kit, and stay informed about emergencies in their area.

“Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere and the holiday season provides a great opportunity to ensure that you and your loved ones are taking simple steps to be prepared,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “As families gather this holiday season, I encourage everyone to take a few minutes and discuss what you would do in case of an emergency or disaster. The public is the most important member of our nation’s emergency response team and the more the public does to be prepared, the more successful this team will be.”

The most important thing any individual can do is take a few minutes to discuss with their family, friends and loved ones what they will do in the case of an emergency or disaster. This includes developing a simple family communications plan and identifying how you would get in touch with loved ones and where you might meet if you are separated when an emergency or disaster takes place.

Additionally, there are simple supplies that can go a long way in the case of an emergency or disaster that would make great gifts this holiday season.

A list of possible gifts that may assist in disasters includes:

•Disaster kits for homes, offices and autos (first aid kits; food, water and prescription medications for 72 hours; i.e., extra clothing, blankets, and flashlights).
•NOAA weather radios with extra batteries.
•Enrollment in a CPR or first-aid class.
•Smoke detectors.
•Fire extinguishers (for kitchen, garage, car, etc.)
•Foldable ladders for second-story escape in a fire.
•Car kits (emergency flares, shovels, ice scrapers, flashlights and fluorescent distress flags).
•Pet Disaster kits (food, water, leashes, dishes and carrying case or crate).
•Battery powered lamps
This year, consider at least one of these ideas. You just may save the life of a friend or family member. For more information and preparedness tips, please visit www.ready.gov and www.fema.gov.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Social Worker Continuing Education http://www.aspirace.com

Holiday Safety Tips

National Crime Prevention Council
1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW
13th Floor
Washington, DC 20036
www.ncpc.org

This holiday season, don’t let the spirit of giving lull you into giving burglars, muggers, nor pickpockets a chance to do their dirty work.

Criminals love the holidays as much as everyone else, chiefly because it’s a perfect opportunity to commit a crime.

Keep these tips in mind for a safe and happy holiday season.


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If You’re Traveling . . .
* Set an automatic timer for your lights.

* Ask your neighbor to watch your home, pick up newspapers, collect mail, and park in the driveway from time to time.

* Be sure to hide any gifts that may be left in the house while you’re gone.


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If You’re Out for the Evening . . .
* Turn on lights and a radio or the TV so that it appears that someone is home.


* Lock all doors and windows while you’re out, even if you’ll be gone for just a few minutes.


* Do not place packages or gifts near windows or in other high-visibility sites.


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If You’re Shopping . . .
* Don’t let your guard down just because you are rushing.


* Stay alert and be aware of everything around you at all times.


* Park in well-lighted spaces and as close to the store as possible, lock your car doors, and hide packages in the trunk or under the seats.


* Do not carry large amounts of cash; pay with a check or credit card if possible.


* Make sure that you do not carry all your packages at the same time.


* Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.


* If you take your children shopping, teach them to go to a police officer or a store security guard if they get separated or get lost.


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If a Stranger Comes to the Door . . .
* Stay alert to suspicious-looking couriers delivering packages to you or your neighbors.


* Many con artists take advantage of holiday generosity by going door-to-door. Ask for identification and get specifics to how and where the donations will be spent/used.


* If you feel uncomfortable, just say “no thank you” and shut the door.


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If You’re at Home . . .
* Turn on outside lights to deter burglars.


* Report any suspicious behavior to the police or local community watch groups.


* Make sure your homeowners (or renters) insurance is up-to-date and everything is inventoried properly.

LPC Continuing Education http://www.aspirace.com

Holiday Suicides: Fact or Myth?

The idea that suicides occur more frequently during the holiday season is a long perpetuated myth. The Annenberg Public Policy Center has been tracking media reports on suicide since 2000. A recent analysis found that 40% of articles written during the 2008 holiday season perpetuated the myth.1

CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reports that the suicide rate is, in fact, the lowest in December.1 The rate peaks in the spring and the fall. This pattern has not changed in recent years. The holiday suicide myth supports misinformation about suicide that might ultimately hamper prevention efforts. MFT Continuing Education http://www.aspirace.com
Suicide remains a major public health problem, one that occurs throughout the year. It is the 11th leading cause of death for all Americans. Each year, more than 33,000 people take their own lives.2 In addition, more than 376,000 are treated in emergency departments for self-inflicted injuries.2

CDC works to prevent suicidal behavior before it initially occurs. Some of CDC’s activities include:

1.monitoring suicidal behavior;
2.conducting research to identify the factors that put people at risk or protect them from suicide; and
3.developing and evaluating prevention programs.

Older Adult Depression During the Holidays

According to Mental Health America, more than two million of the 34 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression - and during the holidays this number climbs. For many Americans, the holiday season is a time of good cheer, family celebrations, and socialization with friends. Yet for some people, particularly the elderly, it's a time of loneliness, reflections of the past and anxiety about the future. During the holidays, older adults may feel more acutely the absence of loved ones, the distance of family members, and the passing of time. Traditions and reunions that were once observed may no longer be possible which may result in an absence of holiday meaning and significance for the elderly individual. Some major factors contributing to holiday depres-sion in the elderly include:

. Being alone or separated from loved ones,
. Loss of independence,
. Financial limitations,
. Failing eyesight (inability to read or write personal holiday correspondence),
. Loss of mobility and/or the inability to attend religious services.

Although sadness and grief are a normal part of life, depression is not a normal part of growing older. Depression is an illness which can be prevented and treated. Some of the warning signs of late-life depression include:

. Persistent sadness
. Lack of energy or interest in things that were once enjoyable
. Withdrawal from regular social activities
. Feelings of worthlessness or helplessness
. Frequent tearfulness
. Slowed thinking or response
. Excessive worry about health or finances
. Weight changes
. Pacing and fidgeting
. Changes in sleep patterns
. Inability to concentrate
. Staring off into space or at the television for prolonged periods of time

For many older adults there may be stigma attached to asking for help and they may have trouble discussing depression or mental illness. Understand that open communication is needed and that it may take more than one conversation to get the individual to agree to get help. If necessary, offer to call the individual's doctor or clergy and accompany the senior to an appointment. It is important to let the older adult know that depression is not part of growing old, that it is treatable, and that their lives can be better.

The National Registry for Evidence-based Programs and Practices

An Introduction

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) developed the National Registry of Effective Prevention Programs in 1998 to better facilitate effective identification and dissemination of prevention programs targeting substance abuse. The newly revamped system, now the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP), has expanded to include programs and practices for preventing and/or treating mental health and substance use disorders.

NREPP seeks to bridge the science to service gap by providing easily accessible information on the best practices and programs.

Without the identification, broad dissemination, and implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs) for older adults, this vulnerable population faces delivery of services that are unsystematic and possibly ineffective or harmful. Delivery of effective and reliable services to older adults can decrease the disabilities and impairments associated with mental health problems and substance abuse in late life, while increasing the quality of life for this rapidly growing population.

Inclusion within NREPP is highly valued and potentially advantageous. SAMHSA and many other Federal and State agencies are increasingly awarding grants to programs that utilize EBPs. Because of NREPP's strong adherence to promoting EBPs, it serves as a rich resource for states, communities, public and private researchers and specific programs seeking to implement or promote specific evidence-based mental health and substance abuse prevention and treatment services for older adults.

The TAC is positioned to assist interested programs, practitioners, and researchers to learn more about NREPP and help determine whether they would be solid candidates for NREPP consideration. Programs targeted for the NREPP process are thoroughly evaluated, focusing on program outcomes. As a preliminary step prior to NREPP submission, the TAC analyzes program strengths and gaps to determine if the program is suitable for NREPP review, i.e., has sufficient supporting evidence for submission. If a program is found to be in need of further technical assistance in order to get NREPP-ready, TAC staff is available to work with program staff regarding gaps and ways to address these issues. For those programs ready for submission, the TAC will package their materials and submit them for review and evaluation by three independent NREPP reviewers on the basis of scientific merit and utility.

Programs reviewed by NREPP are placed into one of five categories: (5) Effective Program or Practice, (4) Conditionally Effective Program or Practice, (3) Emerging Program or Practice, (2) Program or Practice of Interest and (1) Insufficient Current Support.

Recently, the TAC highlighted the NREPP process in a poster presentation at the 3rd National Prevention Summit held in Washington, DC. We look forward to the further identification of and coordination with potential NREPP programs. If you are aware of a successful program serving older adults, please contact us at OlderAmericansTAC@westat.com or 1-888-281-8010 and provide the program name, along with contact information. In addition to the identification of programs and support throughout the NREPP process, TAC staff receives frequent requests regarding evidence-based practices and programs. While NREPP itself is unable to focus on knowledge dissemination, the TAC can assist with disseminating successful programs and practices and promote the use of recognized evidence-based activities.
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Avoiding Holiday Depression

The holiday season is a time of joy, cheer, parties and family-oriented gatherings. But it can also be a time of self-evaluation, loneliness and anxiety about an uncertain future, causing "holiday blues."

Many factors cause holiday blues such as increased stress and fatigue, unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization, financial constraints and the inability to be with family and friends. Increased demands of shopping, parties and houseguests can also cause tension. Even people who do not become depressed can develop other stress reactions during the holidays, such as headaches, excessive drinking, overeating and difficulty sleeping.

Although many people become depressed during the holiday season, even more respond to the excessive stress and anxiety once the holidays have passed. This post-holiday letdown can be the result of emotional disappointments experienced during the preceding months, as well as the physical reactions caused by excess fatigue and stress.

There are several ways to identify potential sources of holiday depression that can help you head off the blues:

s Keep expectations manageable. Set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the most important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do.

s Remember that the holiday season does not automatically banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely. There is room for these feelings to be present, even if you choose not to express them.

s Let go of the past. Don’t be disappointed if your holidays are not like they used to be. Life brings changes. Each holiday season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way. Look toward the future.

s Do something for someone else. It is an old remedy, but it can help. Try volunteering some time to help others.

s Enjoy holiday activities that are free, such as driving around to look at holiday decorations. Go window shopping without buying anything.

s Don’t drink too much. Excessive drinking will only make you more depressed.

s Don’t be afraid to try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a way you have not done before.

s Spend time with people who are supportive and who care about you. Reach out to make new friends if you are alone during special times. Contact someone you have lost touch with.

s Find time for yourself. Don’t spend all of your time providing activities for your family and friends.

Signs of depression can also include: noticeable weight loss/gain, difficulty sleeping, lack of energy, loss of interest in usual activities and thoughts of suicide. If someone exhibits any of these signs, a Primary Care Manager at Keller should be contacted immediately for proper treatment.
LPC Continuing Education http://www.aspirace.com

Editor’s note: The information in this article came from a Sierra Military Health Care article and from information provided by the Mental Health Association.

Stress Free Holidays

This is time of year the family calendar tends to fill up quickly. On top of regular activities and commitments, any free time on evenings and weekends may be overloaded with parties, dinners, other social events, shopping, and possibly a school or religious program or two. You may find yourself thinking, “Just a month or two and this will pass.”

Parents often dream of giving their child(ren) the best or most memorable holiday. Sometimes we need to stop and ask ourselves, “What is the best? and What is the price?” Remember that the stress, excitement, and go, go, go feeling of the holiday season not only takes its toll on you, but also your family. Children will notice when you're stressed or tired. If you're not feeling best, your child may pick up this. If you're feeling irritable, chances are your child may get a case of his or her own grumpies.

Here are some tips that may be able to help your family ease through the extra stress of the season:
•Have limits. Keep in mind, when planning for the holidays, you should have limits or expectations of what will or will not happen. This includes all areas of holiday planning. If appropriate, set a budget for gifts. Let children know in advance what they can expect so there won't be any unrealistic requests.
•Don't spread yourself too thin. It's ok for you or your child not to be actively involved in everything the season offers. If there are certain things you enjoy, individually or as a family, make a list and plans to do these things. If you find your list getting too big or out of control, maybe alternate activities yearly. In addition, saying no to one or two activities a season does not make you a humbug.
•Keep the end in sight. You may feel like the stress is going to bring your holiday happiness to an end or that it will drag on forever. Keep in mind that all too soon, the season will be behind you and life will return to “normal”. Keep an eye on what's important now.

Similarly, keep an eye on your child. If you feel that you child is becoming overwhelmed by activity or just needs a little break go for it. The tears as a result of holiday breakdown, may just add more stress to an already hectic situation.
•Find a shoulder to lean on. Keeping in contact with family and friends may give you the extra support you need to make it though the season. You don't have to do it all on your own. Don't be afraid to delegate tasks or accept offers of assistance from those close to you. If grandma is willing to give you a hand with the little ones while you run to the grocery store, take her up on her offer. Alternate shopping days with a neighbor, so each may have time alone to run errands. Holiday baking can also offer a dose of much needed stress relief as you get together with “the girls (or guys)” and share recipes and laughter.
•Remember you. Most importantly this holiday season, don't forget about keeping track of you and your family. If you're feeling run down or irritable, find something to take your mind off of your stress. Take time for a relaxing bath, a cup of cocoa, or an hour on the treadmill. What ever you want, treat yourself to your own brand of stress relief.
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The same applies to your family. If your children are getting fussy at the holiday planning tasks, find something to lift their spirits. Stop what you're doing and make a quick holiday treat that involves everyone. Get down on the floor and play a game or color. Find an outdoor activity that the whole family enjoys and take the time to enjoy it. Do something fun and not related to your holiday tasks. •Don't worry about the “To Do” list. It will be there when you get back. If by chance an item gets overlooked, it probably wasn't worth the stress it was causing you anyway. Keep these things in mind through this holiday season and enjoy!

Ten Tips for a Peaceful Holiday Season: Helping Kids Relax

From Patti Teel
Kids get pretty anxious over the holidays. It’s a time of excitement and wonder, and they often have a hard time relaxing, staying calm and sleeping well. Here are some tips to help your kids stay relaxed and on a healthy sleep schedule.
1. Don't overschedule your children. Cut back on the tasks and activities which are likely to overwhelm them. For example, avoid long trips to the mall with young children; short spurts of shopping will be more fun for everyone. Don't try to
change your child's temperament; accept that he or she may be naturally timid and soft-spoken, or boisterous and loud. An activity level that might be comfortable for one child could be overwhelming for another—even in the same family.
2. Have activity-based celebrations. For instance, spend time with children making cards, decorations, cookies and gifts. You may wish to let each child select one activity for the whole family to do over the holidays.
3. Have children stay physically active. Don't allow busy holiday schedules to crowd out active play time. Physical activity is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce stress and ensure that a child gets a good night’s sleep. Children
should have at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every day. (However, vigorous activities should not be done within several hours of bedtime because it raises the metabolic rate and may make it difficult for your child to relax.)
4. When possible, have your children play outdoors. Exposure to daytime sunlight helps children to sleep better at night.
5. Teach your children relaxation skills such as stretching, progressive relaxation, deep breathing and guided visualization. Relaxation can be a delightful form of play and it’s easy to incorporate the holidays in imaginative ways. For example, play a relaxing game of “Santa Says.” Direct children to stretch and relax by curling up like a snowball, to move their arms and legs slowly in and out like a snow angel, or to open their mouths widely to catch snowflakes.
6. Banish bedtime fears and help kids put worries to bed. Make a ceremony out of putting worries or fears away for the night. Have children pretend, or actually draw a picture of what’s bothering them. Fold, (or pretend to fold) the worry or fear
until it’s smaller and smaller. Then put it away in a box and lock it with a key. It’s often helpful for older children and teens to list their worries in a journal before putting them away for the night.
7. Make your home a sanctuary from the overstimulation of the outside world by making family “quiet time” a part of every evening.
• Limit total screen time, including computer games, video games and time spent watching television. Advertisements scandalously target children and the more they watch, the more they soak up the commercial messages of the season…instead of the real spirit of the holidays.
• Tell or read inspiring holiday stories.
• Sing and listen to soothing holiday music.
• Give each other a gentle massage.
8. Maintain the bedtime routine. While routines are likely to be thrown off during the holidays, it’s important to maintain a consistent bedtime, allowing plenty of time for a relaxed bedtime routine. Don't let holiday parties or activities interfere with your child getting a good night’s sleep.
9. Instill compassion and encourage generosity.
• Provide opportunities for your children to help others. Opportunities abound: have your child draw pictures and help bake and deliver food, encourage them to donate some or their clothes, toys or books; or regularly visit an elderly
person who needs companionship.
• Read or tell stories that emphasize giving.
• Perform simple rituals to symbolize your care for others. Light a candle as you and your children send your good wishes or say a prayer for those who are in need.
10. Instill appreciation and gratitude. It’s not possible to be upset and worried while feeling appreciative. Share good things that happened during your day and have your child do the same. They don't need to be major events; emphasize
actions that demonstrate the blessings of the season. It could be a hug, words of love, the sound of the birds in the morning or a beautiful snowfall. Depending on your beliefs, you may wish to incorporate prayers of appreciation and thankfulness.
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