Key Benefits of Employee Assistance Program

What is an Employee Assistance Program?

Just like corporate insurance, an Employee Assistance Program is an important part of an employee benefits package. It is a type of employee wellness program, usually offered as group insurance. The employer helps employees manage challenges or pressures that might affect their performance at work. A well-designed Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help employees cope with issues like physical and mental health, legal or financial problems, etc. 

In most scenarios, EAPs are designed to help them deal with wellness and health-treated issues using multiple engagement tools. These tools may include assessments, counselling, and, follow-up services. Based on the situation, employees can attain access to certain services. The employer and the EAP provider ensure the confidentiality and safety of employee data.

Benefits of Employee Assistance Program

Organizations spend huge amounts to offer various benefits to employees. But, need-based benefits are attracting more attention in today’s work environment. One of the main reasons why EAPs are becoming popular is that it is a beneficial program for both, the employer and the employee. Here are a few benefits of Employee Assistance Programs that make them a sought-after employee benefit.

1. Increased Productivity

   Employees who are struggling with problems including personal, health, or financial, have difficulty focusing at work. This may lead to lower productivity or even repeated errors. An EAP program can help employees overcome their challenges, encouraging them to put their focus back to work.

2. Reduced Absenteeism

   When employees are stressed and not in their best frame of mind or health, the number of sick leaves increases. An EAP can thus reduce the overall stress and concern as well as absenteeism amongst the employees.

3. Greater Employee Retention

   Employees are now looking for healthy workplaces that help promote their overall well-being (physical and mental). EAP can support employee well-being, thus keeping them engaged and satisfied.

4. Improves Employee Morale

   If employees are struggling to improve their confidence due to reasons that may include stress or otherwise, an EAP can play a major role in helping them boost their morale. 

   Better Work Environment

5. A healthy work environment is very essential for improved productivity and overall well-being. With EAP, employees can cope with increased stress levels, thereby improving the work environment. Also, since these programs guarantee complete confidentiality, employees can freely share their concerns without being judged.

6. Affordability

   Be it healthcare benefits, Worker’s Comp, or any such benefits, the cost to the employer is very high. An EAP can help manage costs as the number of health insurance claims, losses due to lack of productivity or errors, etc., may be reduced. The support and advice provided through an EAP can also help employees take better care of their health and finances.

Conclusion

There’s a popular saying, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. This might be easier said than done, but as an employer, you can help your employee by providing proper assistance. Life’s challenges can negatively impact your employee’s performance at work. The benefits of employee assistance programs are many, and aid your employees to manage stress thereby improving overall productivity, morale, and well-being.