American workers consistently report high levels of stress as the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects continue to permeate all aspects of work and personal life. According to a 2022 Gallup poll, 44% of workers reported that they experienced significant stress the previous day and more than 20% experienced “significant anger or sadness” the previous day.
When employees face significant stress in their work or personal lives, it can drastically affect their quality of life and performance at work. It’s in every employer’s best interest to dedicate resources toward supporting their employees’ mental health and well-being. Moreover, more than 80% of workers surveyed in the American Psychological Association’s 2022 Work and Well-being Survey agreed that how employers support employee mental health is an important consideration for them when they look for future employment.
One simple way to do this is to create and promote a robust, easy-to-access employee assistance program, also known as an EAP.
What Is an EAP?
An EAP is a program employers offer employees, often at no cost, to help employees confidentially identify and address personal problems. EAPs generally offer services to help employees get assistance managing a number of personal issues they may be facing, including high stress, overall wellness, mental health, financial struggles, caregiving, relationship struggles, traumatic events and substance use disorder, including alcohol abuse. Employees can access all these services without the employer knowing, allowing them to get the care they need without fear of disclosing to their employer that they may be struggling.
There are a variety of services that may be offered through an employer’s EAP. Some of the most common include telehealth services, nurse advice lines and in-person counseling. Depending on the employer, these services may be available to employees’ spouses or dependents.
What Are the Benefits of an EAP?
There are several benefits of EAPs for both the employer and the employee. For employees, they have access to free or low-cost services that can help them address or manage any stressors they may be experiencing. Of those who have participated in an EAP, 22% reported increased life satisfaction, according to the International EAP Association.
For employers, the indirect and direct benefits of EAPs are wide-reaching. Employees who utilize EAPs report higher levels of efficacy and satisfaction, and increased engagement. Additionally, employers with EAPs tend to have lower healthcare costs, less absenteeism, improved morale, fewer workplace accidents, fewer disability claims and higher employee retention. However, EAPs need to be done correctly to see these benefits realized at your company. That’s where we can help.
Let Us Help You With Your EAP
In today’s professional landscape, when employees expect their employer to help support their mental health, having a well-established and promoted EAP can be incredibly beneficial. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Beckworth Beneficial has been helping California businesses navigate their employee benefits needs since 1995. Reach out to us today to find out how we can help you.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.