Five reasons to call your employee assistance program

EAPs are a somewhat common employer benefit and are sometimes viewed as a health plan. That may be because many people think that EAPs help primarily with substance abuse or mental health emergencies.  While counseling is certainly one of the most important support services an EAP offers, EAP programs increasingly offer all kinds of other support for your everyday life and your overall well-being.

There is one important feature all EAPs have in common: calling your EAP is confidential. While overall data on EAP use is reported back to your employer, no participant names are ever shared with them. So, whether you’re calling about substance abuse, marital issues, or how to deal with your boss, the fact that you called and what’s discussed will not get back to your employer.

While the services that EAPs offer can vary widely from one employer to another, it’s worth checking out your EAP to find out what’s available to you, as many of the services are provided at no cost to you.

Here are five ways you may not be aware of that your employer EAP may be able to provide you support.

1.    Stress management

Work is stressful. Family life and finances can be too. Whatever is causing you stress, know that you are not alone. Everyone experiences stress at some point in their lives - your EAP can help. If you are unsure about finding a therapist or counselor, you can always find someone to talk to at your EAP. A trained counselor can help you to talk through and make a plan to address a specific stressful situation—such as a conflict with a co-worker, grief over divorce or loss of a loved one, working remotely, or concerns about money. You also can get help with some of the side-effects of stress, such as trouble sleeping. Your EAP typically offers a limited number of counseling sessions at no cost, and if needed, you can get a referral for further treatment.

2.    Concierge services

Time is precious, and your EAP may be able to save you some time. Many EAPs are available to help you find a range of personal services—such as childcare, veterinarian, plumber, or movers. Some even include concierge services that can help you plan a night out or a celebration. This kind of help can be an especially valuable if you’re relocating and you need to line up a whole new team of service providers in your new location.

3.    Legal consultation

If you have simple legal needs, you may be able to get them taken care of with one phone call to your EAP. If you need help drawing up an uncomplicated will/estate plan or reviewing a document, or if you need a lawyer to make a phone call on your behalf, a brief consultation may be all you need. For more complicated needs, you can get help finding a local lawyer. (Note: If your issue is employment-related, you will likely not be able to go to your EAP for help with that.)

4.    Financial plans and debt management

Many EAPs offer a free phone consultation on financial issues. If you’re just starting out or had a life event such as marriage or a new baby, you may need help creating a new budget for saving and spending. You should also take advantage of their help with ongoing money concerns, such as how to manage and pay off debt. Your EAP may be able to offer help on these financial issues, and more.

5.    Life and wellness coaching

Many EAP services offer sessions with trained coaches who can help you meet your life goals, such as navigating a transition in life like a move, improving skills in life and work, or with well-being goals like better nutrition or tobacco cessation. Take advantage of having dedicated professionals who will give you resources and hold you accountable.