What is an EAP?
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a work-based program that provides free and private evaluation, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services for employees undergoing personal or work-related issues.
However, an EAP is not only limited to assisting employees suffering from SUD. It can include assistance for mental health issues, family problems, workplace troubles, and so on. Depending on the plan, it can also cover qualified family members.
Will this program benefit you and your employees? How? Read on and find out.
What is an EAP? How beneficial is it to employers and employees?
Not all employers provide an employee assistance program. Some overlook it or deliberately ignore it due to the additional time, money, and effort it entails. Employers who offer EAPs provide them to their employees at no extra charge. Plus, they assure confidential access to workplace drug testing programs and counseling.
How beneficial is it to your employee?
All people make mistakes and succumb to stress. But different people deal with these things differently.
To some, airing out their problems to family and friends is enough. However, some people take drugs or alcohol to help them cope with pressure and frustration. And studies show that stress can increase vulnerability to addiction.
This is why some employees refuse drug testing. What if the test detects his recent use of a drug or alcohol? Will his boss terminate him?
How will you, the employer, benefit from this?
First, let’s talk about productivity in the workplace.
Studies show that people suffering from SUD can affect productivity in the workplace. They are frequently absent. If they are at work, they might look dazed, so his co-workers might find it challenging to communicate with him. Worse, he might come to work after taking amphetamines, which can make him tense and irritable.
Such scenarios in the workplace can affect the productivity of employees.
So why not drug test the concerned employee?
Some employees refuse drug testing because they’re worried about getting positive results. They’re afraid to get sacked. On the other hand, employees who need to take prescription drugs would rather keep their illness to themselves.
Knowing that his company will help him rehabilitate instead of being terminated can give him the feeling of being cared for, assure him of work stability, and, consequently, lessen his financial woes.
How the EAP Benefits Employers
Increased bottom line
An employee who feels cared for becomes more productive. Love begets love. He’ll do his best to pay you back for your concern and kindness. You can expect fewer absences, better, more harmonious relationships in the workplace, and an overall camaraderie that makes work more fun and exciting.
And we all know that happy employees are productive employees! The more productive they are, the better it is for your company’s morale and profitability.
Lower Employee Turnover
With all the benefits the EAP can offer to your employees, who would want to leave? They’ll stay for as long as you need them, thus minimizing the need to replace and train new employees. They’ll even talk positively about you to their friends and relatives and refer you to them. Consequently, you’ll have a roster of applicants to choose from if and when the need arises.
What is an EAP?
An Employee Assistance Program involves additional expenses for employers. But the enhanced employee performance, lower employee turnover, and increased bottom line can more than make up for the cost. You’ll have a company culture that your employees will love.
Want to learn more about this topic? Visit the Ovid Medical Blog. We have a lot of information that you will find beneficial.