Employee Assistance Programs: Everything You Need to Know About EAP
Introduction: Why Employee Assistance Programs Matter
Mental health concerns and workplace stress are on the rise. HR leaders and employers are looking for effective ways to support their teams and reduce burnout. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) have become an essential benefit for employees and their families. This article summarizes a recent Business Health Trust (BHT) webinar featuring Behavioral Health Systems, exploring what an EAP is, how it helps, and what BHT members need to know to make the most of this resource.
What Is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
An Employee Assistance Program, or EAP, is a confidential workplace benefit that provides employees and their dependents with access to professional support. EAP services are free to you as part of your BHT medical plan. They are completely separate from your employer, ensuring privacy and peace of mind.
With an EAP, you can get help with a wide range of personal and work-related challenges, including mental health concerns, stress, family issues, legal or financial problems, substance use, and crisis intervention. All support is delivered by independent counselors and specialists, not by your employer.
Why EAPs Are Essential for Today’s Workplaces
Personal and family challenges affect every workplace, regardless of size or industry. When employees face mental health issues, financial stress, or family concerns, it can impact their productivity, morale, and overall well-being. According to research highlighted in the webinar, clinical depression alone costs US employers more than $51 billion each year in absenteeism and lost productivity. The good news is that more than 80 percent of people with clinical depression can be successfully treated.
Unresolved personal issues can also lead to higher turnover, increased absences, and lower morale across teams. EAPs are a practical way for employers to address these challenges. Using the EAP is a sign of strength, not weakness. Seeking help early supports both the employee and the business as a whole.
What Services Does the EAP Cover?
The BHT EAP, provided through Behavioral Health Systems, covers a wide range of services, including:
- Mental health counseling for stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, and life changes
- Financial and legal consultations with experts on topics such as budgeting or legal questions
- Support for substance abuse and addictions
- Family and relationship counseling for issues like marital stress, parenting, or grief
- Crisis intervention for urgent needs
All services are confidential and provided at no cost. No one at your workplace will know you used the EAP unless you choose to share that information.
How EAPs Help Employees and the Workplace
EAPs are designed to support both individual employees and the entire organization. When employees receive the help they need, they are more likely to feel happier and healthier at work. This improvement can spread across teams, leading to better morale, stronger teamwork, and improved communication.
Using the EAP often results in:
- Reduced stress and burnout
- Fewer sick days and workplace accidents
- Lower turnover rates
- Better retention and productivity
When support is available, employees are more likely to stay engaged and perform well. For HR and business leaders, EAPs also make it easier to proactively address issues before they become crises.
Recognizing When Help Is Needed
No two people experience mental health challenges in exactly the same way, but there are some common signs that may indicate a need for support. Symptoms can include:
- Persistent sadness, anxiety, or emotional numbness
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Fatigue, low energy, or difficulty concentrating
- Increased irritability or restlessness
- Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomach issues
- Frequent complaints of being tired
- Use of alcohol, drugs, or other escapes more often than usual
If you are a manager or coworker, it is important to approach someone with care and without judgment. Rather than diagnosing, focus on objective changes you have noticed. For example, “I’ve noticed you’ve been late more often recently. If there is something going on, our Employee Assistance Program offers confidential help.”
Confidentiality is always protected. Using the EAP will not impact job security, promotions, or performance reviews.
How to Access Your BHT EAP Benefits
BHT members and their dependents each receive up to six free consults per year, which can be used for counseling, legal, or financial issues. For example, you might use three sessions for counseling, one for a legal question, and two for financial advice. Your spouse and children each have their own set of six annual visits.
To access EAP services, contact your dedicated care coordinator, Natalie Ludwig, at 888-720-5237. You can also visit behavioralhealthsystems.com or use the BHS Member Access app. Both in-person and telehealth options are available, making it easy to find a convenient time and location.
When your six free visits are used, care coordinators can help connect you with in-network providers to continue care if needed.
You can also access helpful resources, fact sheets, and newsletters through the BHS website or app. There is a downloadable wallet card and vetted content on topics like elder care, parenting, and workplace stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EAP confidential?
Yes. All conversations and records are private. Your employer does not receive any information about who uses the EAP or why.
What happens if I use all my visits?
Your care coordinator can help you transition to in-network providers for ongoing support.
Can my manager see if I use the EAP?
No. EAP usage is confidential and not shared with your employer.
How is the EAP different from my health insurance?
The EAP provides short-term support for a wide range of personal issues and is completely confidential. It is separate from your health plan coverage.
Can I get support for family members?
Yes. Each dependent is eligible for their own set of six annual visits.
Next Steps and Resources
Ready to get started? Here’s how to access your EAP:
- Call Natalie Ludwig at 888-720-5237 (Monday to Friday, 5:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific Time)
- Visit behavioralhealthsystems.com
- Download the BHS Member Access app (App Store and Google Play)
- Access fact sheets, newsletters, and a downloadable wallet card through the website or app
- For immediate crisis support, call 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Internal BHT resources are also available, including information on pet insurance, HR support programs, and more.
Speaker Information
Emmy Blankenship is with Behavioral Health Systems and specializes in connecting BHT members to confidential, expert support through the EAP. For questions or assistance, reach out to Natalie Ludwig at 888-720-5237.
Taking care of yourself is a strength, not a weakness. The BHT EAP is here to help you and your family thrive—at work and at home.