Depression alone costs 200 million workdays each year.

That’s more than lost productivity, lost potential, and lost revenue. It’s a workforce that is struggling. As an employer, you can’t help everyone. But you can potentially chip away at some of the issues your team faces.

One simple way is to invest in an employee assistance program.

What Is An Employee Assistance Program?

An employee assistance program (EAP) is a voluntary counseling program you offer to your team. You choose how many sessions are available, which can be used to:

• complete an assessment
• make referrals
• address specific problems

Programs will vary from provider to provider, but here at Headwaters Counseling, we can also provide training, education, and crisis support as needed.

What Are The Benefits Of An Employee Assistance Program?

In addition to helping your business, an employee assistance program supports the mental and financial health of your team in a variety of ways:


1. You Alleviate Some Of The Financial Burdens

Counseling can be expensive. That barrier often prevents those in need from seeking help. By paying for a specific number of counseling sessions, you alleviate an issue or help lay a foundation forward.

2. You Provide A Pathway For Continued Help

Counseling doesn’t have to end when the fixed number of sessions are met. The counselor can make a referral or discuss the possibility of continuing with members of your team. EAPs often serve as a starting point for ongoing support.

3. You Demonstrate That You Truly Care About Employees

Investing in an EAP is truly an investment in your people. It’s a way to show that you care about more than productivity and output. You care for everyone who comes through your doors each day. It’s a better show of support than any free lunch.

4. You Increase Team Productivity

A stressed, struggling workforce will not produce the results you want. Juggling the demands of work, home, and life is an uphill battle. Counseling can help employees develop strategies that will allow them to strike a better balance.

5. You Improve Employee Retention Rates

In this highly competitive job market, retaining your best people is essential. A team that feels supported and has an outlet to improve their mental health is less likely to look for greener pastures. Give your employees another reason to stay.

If you would like to learn more about starting an employee assistance program, contact Headwaters Counseling. We serve businesses of all sizes in Fort Wayne and the surrounding area.