Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

What is an Employee Assistance Program?

An employee assistance program (EAP) is an advantage that helps workers in resolving private, work-related issues that, if ignored, may have an adverse effect on their productivity, health, and general well-being.

Employee assistance programs provide support to employees dealing with a range of issues, such as

• Financial assistance,
• Relationship improvement at work, 
• Performance enhancement,
• Mental health issues,
• Substance abuse,
• Work-related stress,
• Significant life events.

These programs not only help employees mentally, but they also assist workers in increasing their levels of involvement over the period of their employment.

Are Employee Assistance Programs Confidential?

Yes. Services provided by the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) are private. The EAP maintains the strictest confidentiality with regard to all case files and information regarding the services offered to employees.

There are the following exceptions to confidentiality:

• If the EAP is required to make a disclosure according to a court order or subpoena
• If the EAP provider has reason to believe that a client poses a threat to his or her safety or the safety of others,
• If the EAP specialist has cause to suspect that a child or vulnerable adult has been the victim of abuse or neglect.

An employee must sign a release allowing the EAP to confirm attendance before a supervisor can refer them to the EAP.

This release only permits the employee’s manager to verify that the worker made an appointment with the EAP and whether they showed up or not. 

Do Employee Assistance Programs Work?

Yes, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can be useful in offering employees who are having personal or professional problems support and assistance. 

After implementing EAPs, employees’ ability to manage their work and personal lives improved by 45%.

After the implementation of EAPs, 86% of the workforce reported that it had a positive impact on their well-being.

If your team is receiving a lot of these benefits thanks to your EAP,

1. An increase in productivity.
2. Reduction in depressive symptoms.
3. A decrease in absences.
4. A boost in employee engagement.
5. Lessened alcohol dependence.
6. Virtual advantages everywhere.

Also, see: ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan)