According to the American Psychological Association, fewer than half of working Americans (44 percent) say the climate in their organization supports employee well-being, and 1 in 3 reports being chronically stressed on the job. This is a problem. But it’s a problem that an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help with.
Employees are well aware of many of the benefits their employers provide, such as health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Despite their prevalence, however, many people aren’t aware that their employer may offer an EAP. An EAP is a confidential program that provides professional assistance to employees and their immediate family members to help resolve work-related or personal problems. These short-term counseling services (via e-counseling, face-to-face visits, phone conversations, or group support) can help employees facing personal or professional challenges that negatively impact their performance at work. EAPs can also include training and development of employees and supervisors, family support, and programs for alcohol and substance abuse.
Every single one of us has experienced work challenges or family difficulties at one time or another. These problems can start out small, but they can grow and quickly spread to other areas of a person’s life, threatening a marriage, a career or both. This is where making the most of an EAP comes in to play.
How to Use Your EAP in 2018
Take Advantage of Workshops or Training. Many EAPs provide free workshops that are designed to help employees with managing the problems that can come up in their daily work and personal lives and help them to be happy, healthy and productive.
Use Online Resources. Your EAP provider may have an online resource library available for your and your family’s use. Often you can get free access to information about topics such as stress management, managing personal relationship issues, financial matters and budgeting, alcohol or drug use, grief management, and more.
Be Proactive. Request help from your provider before a problem becomes a crisis. By contacting your EAP at the start, you can work on finding a solution to your problem more quickly.
Don’t Spend a Dime! The EAP is a free benefit provided by your employer. There is no cost for services. Assessments, counseling, education, referrals and follow-up are all free to you and your immediate family.
Employee Assistance Network has been helping companies and government organizations across Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee for more than 30 years. We are a recognized leading provider of Employee Assistance Programs, managed behavioral healthcare services and work-related training and education programs. For more information or to download our overview brochure please visit www.eannc.com.