Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Everyone faces problems from time to time.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are employee benefit programs offered by many employers, typically in conjunction with a health insurance plan. EAPs are intended to help employees deal with personal problems that might adversely impact their work performance, health, and well-being. EAPs generally include assessment, short-term counseling and referral services for employees and their household members.
Employees and their household members may use EAPs to help manage issues that could adversely impact their work and personal lives. EAP counselors typically provide assessment, support, and if needed, referrals to additional resources. The issues for which EAPs provide support vary, but examples include
- substance abuse
- emotional distress
- major life events, including births, accidents and deaths
- health care concerns
- financial or legal concerns
- family/personal relationship issues
- work relationship issues
- concerns about aging parents
