How A Robust EAP Can Help Your Team On And Off The Clock

With the continuing evolution of the workplace and the world taking a hybrid approach, Mental Health is a topic that is front and center, which is long overdue in our opinion. Technology enables us to work from anywhere, and companies are increasingly recognizing the benefits of hybrid or remote models. However not having a clear separation between work and personal life can cause unforeseen issues when they go hand in hand. 

Companies are asking more out of their employees than ever before, and in turn, employees are asking more from their employers. KCRG recently highlighted how a robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help organizations give their employees the support they need in all aspects of their daily lives. 

With Mental Health issues on the rise, this is not a trend, this is an expectation for employers to offer real solutions to their employees. We will dive into how ProCircular is utilizing their EAP, what a robust EAP should look like, and what we can all do to change the conversation around Mental Health in the workplace. 

Stress And Mental Health In The Workplace

Workplace stress is a common issue that affects employees across various industries. Aaron Warner, CEO at ProCircular, notes, “Cybersecurity is a stressful industry,” and emphasizes the high stakes involved in their work. 

DaLayne Williamson, Chief of Staff at ProCircular, explains, “The things that we’re doing for our clients are very serious, and our employees take it very seriously.”

Stress can significantly impact job performance and personal well-being, making it crucial for companies to provide support systems. “We break into banks, and we have to deal with hackers, and it is an incredibly challenging domain to work in,” Warner continues, highlighting the intense environment at ProCircular.

Regardless of industry, there are workplace stressors that come with any job. Not all employees feel comfortable discussing that with their supervisors or colleagues, no matter how great their relationship may be. Additionally, colleagues often times are unable to offer sound advice as they are too close to the situation. Having a confidential outlet is a big feature of most EAP’s.  

The Blurred Lines Between Personal And Professional Life 

Working from home or in the office, it is impossible for anyone to compartmentalize the two perfectly. Yes, some people are better at it than others, however if you are a person who isn’t able to do that well, that is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of being human. There are so many life events that will happen during a person’s career:

• Marriage
• Children
• Divorce
• Loss of loved ones
• Tragic events
• Financial hardship

Those are just a few of the many events that happen frequently with hundreds of individual scenarios playing out for each person. For instance, with a divorce may come discussions around custody, who retains the home, even who gets to keep the pets can cause intense stress. 

When you are able to provide real help to your team in these situations, they do not forget who was there for them in those times of need. That is why offering an EAP that goes beyond just workplace related issues can be a retention tool for your company. It creates mutual loyalty, respect, and appreciation. 

The Role of EAPs in Managing LIFE Stress (Not Just Workplace)

An Employee Assistance Program offers a vital support system for employees facing personal and work-related challenges. Chad Charkowski, Head of Sales at Covenant Workplace Solutions, states, “We can meet people wherever they are and provide them with the resources to navigate whatever they might be going through,” illustrating the comprehensive nature of their support.

Zach Schmit, Head of Operations at Covenant Workplace Solutions, adds, “A lot of these employers have employees that are just going through intense burnout or just high-stress situations,” underscoring the importance of EAPs in high-stress work environments. These programs provide resources to help employees manage stress, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being.

Your EAP Should Raise The Bar Not Just Check The Box

There are times when an EAP is considered something that a benefits manager will just “throw in” as part of the overall benefits package. That is “checking the box” behavior and employees feel it. Whether that is long wait times to be seen, a lack of resources, or countless other factors, the value of free is noticeable. 

Having a robust and comprehensive EAP like Covenant Workplace Solutions’ Lifestyle EAP offers a full-service wellness benefit designed to support employees and their families for whatever they are going through. A modern day EAP should encompass:

• Confidential support available 24/7.
• Access to virtual or in-person counseling & life coaching.
• Comprehensive resources for mental health, legal, financial, and wellness needs. 
• Online resources for self-service

Those are a few of the many considerations when we are talking about how to combat the Mental Health issues facing the workforce today. The Lifestyle EAP aims to create a healthy, engaged, and thriving workforce, as it meets employees wherever they are in their life journey. By offering a wide range of support options, the program ensures that employees can find the help they need, whether they’re dealing with stress, legal issues, or health concerns.

Real-life Impact of EAPs: Testimonials and Success Stories

EAPs like Covenant Workplace Solutions’ Lifestyle EAP have a significant positive impact on employees. Aaron Warner shares his personal experience, saying, “I have to admit I’ve used it quite a bit, the CEO of a growing cybersecurity firm here in Eastern Iowa all the challenges that come along with that.” His openness encourages others to seek help without stigma.

Testimonials from other employees highlight how the EAP has helped them manage stress, achieve work-life balance, and improve their overall well-being. These stories underscore the tangible benefits of a robust EAP for both employees and their employers.

Create An EAP That Puts Employees First 

Having an EAP that has the right blend of in-person and online resources can take a lot of the heavy lifting off of the HR team’s shoulders. As more and more is asked of Human Resources within organizations, the more evident it becomes that they need a partner who specializes in helping with mental health in the workplace. 

A robust EAP can help your employees effectively manage workplace and life stressors, support mental health, and improve overall well-being. Covenant Workplace Solutions’ Lifestyle EAP offers comprehensive and confidential support tailored to meet diverse needs, proving to be a valuable resource for employees and their families. 

If you are wondering where to start with an EAP that can keep up with the demands of your team, schedule a call today with the EAP leader in Eastern Iowa, Covenant Workplace Solutions.