Identification

• Employee Assistance Programs are considered an employee benefit, usually in conjunction to a company's health insurance policy. An EAP is a resource used by employer's to deal with issues affecting workplace productivity. For the employee, EAPs are a confidential source for mediating, referring and otherwise assisting with issues such as financial problems, failing health, legal turmoil and workplace violence. Other personal concerns can include difficulties with alcohol and drugs, stress, bereavement and family problems.
  
  

Effects

• EAPs can have a positive impact on both the company and employee. EAPs help identify employees' problems and offer appropriate referrals. Employees who are getting help in their struggles generally perform better and the ill effect stress has on a persons health can be reduced.
  
  

Violence

• Employees can use EAPs to cope with stress resulting from violence or bullying in the workplace. In the event of a violent event or scare, employess may become less focused and may be excessively absent. EAPs help them companies deal with these types of events. The EAP can offer one-on-one counseling or refer someone to other professionals, as appropriate.
  
  

Mental Health

• Family problems, grief or drug or alcohol abuse can be debilitating, distracting and difficult to handle alone. Employees who seek help from an EAP are assured a "safe" outlet because of the confidentiality involved. EAPs work with the employer, the employee, medical doctors and psychologists, treatment facilities and insurance companies to help individuals receive appropriate treatment.
  
  

Financial and Legal

• Financial and legal issues can sometimes cost employees their jobs. Employees use EAPs to direct them to suitable paths of resolution. Because EAPs have varied referral resources, employees may achieve greater success than attempting to find resolution on their own.