What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
These days in our changing and competitive workplace setting looking out for the wellbeing of employees is more important than ever before. Oftentimes businesses are implementing new strategies to support their staff members and ensure that their physical and mental health are given top priority. such a program is the Employee Assistance Program ( EAP). So what is the Employee Assistance Program ( EAP) and how does it benefit both workers and employers alike?
What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a program established within the workplace to assist employees in addressing personal or professional issues that could impact their productivity and overall health positively and wellbeing.
EAP provides confidentiality and assistance for various concerns that employees face like mental health challenges, depression, anxiety, financial wellbeing, family conflicts, and more. The EAPs include assessment, counselling, and follow-up services. Organisations with EAP not only address individual troubles, but they also make a statement about how they prioritise their employee' wellbeing.
Suggested Read: Importance of Empathy in the Workplace
How Does the Employee Assistance Program Work?
So, how does the employee assistance program work? The EAP offerings depend on the program plan. The Employee Assistance Program covers your employees and in some cases, it’s eligible for household members as well.
With Employee Assistance Program employees can get access to support from experts when they face any challenges related to their personal or professional life. The services under EAP include on-call counsellors who can help the employees to solve their problems. These communications are confidential and personal.
Employee Assistance Program Benefits for Employers
The employee assistance program benefits employers in several ways:
- Higher Employee Productivity: by offering workplace counselling to employees and supporting their personal and professional challenges, EAPs can reduce employee burnout in the workplace. When employees get enough support to deal with their challenges, it can make them more productive, and help them to perform better.
- Reduced Absenteeism: With the help of EAPs, employees can treat their mental health concerns. As per Gallup, employees with poor mental health take 12 days on unplanned leave annually compared to 2.5 days for other workers. With EAP employers can support the mental health of their employees, and reduce absenteeism.
- Helps with Employee Retention: Employee turnover can be expensive for employers. According to Gallup, 42% of employee turnover is preventable by showing support and care to the employees. EAPs can increase employee retention, by making employees feel supported and valued.
- Cost Savings: EAP may cost you money, but if you see the bigger picture. actually save money reducing absenteeism and improving employee wellbeing. Employee Assistance Program helps you to increase employee retention, and save you moment on recruitment and training expenses.
- Positive Work Culture: Implementing EAP shows a commitment to employee wellbeing and fosters a positive work environment. EAP helps to reduce the stigma around mental health and creates a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help.
How to Choose the Right Employee Assistance Program Provider?
Employee assistance program providers are often third-party organizations that specialise in offering EAP services.
Choose an Employee Assistance Program Provider That Fits Your Budget
Keep note of a budget when you are looking for an EAP provider. Take a look at all the features, and services available for your company. Some companies like CHOYS, offer access to a wide range of features to employees as well which aids in their wellbeing journey at affordable cost.
Digital First Approach
The best EAPs come with a digital-first approach that allows employees to access mental health support from anywhere. The support is available only one click away. It saves the trouble of waiting in a long line to talk with a professional when one needs help.
Some Additional Things to Consider When Choosing an EAP Provider
- A flexible online booking system that allows employees to book appointments at their convenience
- A user-friendly interface that helps employees easily get support when required.
- An easy onboarding process that makes the integration of the Employee Assistance Program(EAP) easy.
- 24/7 support for any queries related to EAP
CHOYS: EAP Services for Employee Wellbeing
CHOYS offers one of the top Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), with a digital-first approach that makes accessing mental health support quick and easy. Our app also provides additional wellbeing features like step tracking, meditation, habit tracking and more, helping employees on their journey to better health. With flexible scheduling and 24/7 support, CHOYS ensures employees get the help they need anytime. Choose CHOYS to improve employee wellbeing, productivity, and satisfaction.
Employee Assistance Program FAQs
Q. What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential short-term counselling, and follow-up services to help employees with their personal and work-related challenges.
Q. Why is EAP important for employees?
EAP is important for employees because it helps them to deal with problems that may impact their personal and work lives. Here employees talk about the problems they are facing, and experts offer solutions that can help them.
Q. How does the employee assistance program work?
Companies can choose an EAP provider to help their employees. After that, employees can get access to EAP services, and they can book appointments when it’s required.
Q. What are the benefits of EAP for employers?
Offering EAP to employees can increase their productivity, focus, and engagement. It fosters a sense of care within the organisation. As a result, it leads to high employee satisfaction, retention, and engagement.
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