How Employee Assistance Programmes Can Help Your Organisation

The rise of mental health issues in the workplace has made Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) increasingly influential. Seeking help needs to be normalised and EAPs play a crucial role in this mission.

The startup culture in India has picked up at a good pace, especially with the maximum youth force entering the workspace at a higher frequency than in the past. According to Inc42 data, total funding reached $10 Bn+ in India in 2023, both from Indian and international investors. 

Fostering a healthy work atmosphere is essential in today’s competitive landscape. According to an article in the Economic Times, Indian employees spend 52 hours a week at their workplace and 59 minutes daily commuting from work.

As work culture evolves, creating a positive environment to attract and keep talent is crucial. Hustle culture is common in startups, with employees striving to do more in less time. 

This may start as Eustress and when the purpose of their passion gets drained out in the league, it leads to stress. In such a scenario, the prevalence of employee assistance programs (EAPs) enables employees to receive holistic benefits and make corporate social responsibility more inclusive. 

A survey by the American Health Association revealed that 51% of employees remain in their jobs due to solid relationships with coworkers. 

What Are Employee Assistance Programs?

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a wellness initiative taken by companies for their employees designed to boost their performance by offering confidential and short-term support for resolving personal issues. 

EAP counselling has been proven to assist employees in having a positive mindset and become the vehicle for them to work efficiently and achieve their goals. The program covers a wide range of issues, such as those about finances, law, physical health and mental health.

With the emergence of mental health awareness in workspaces, the relevance of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) has garnered interest among today’s youth. By normalising the idea of seeking help, the prevalent stereotypes on mental health have slowly begun to take a backseat and we are approaching the establishment of a new, brave future for India. 

Furthermore, the perks of EAPs and services frequently cover spouses, extended family members, and dependents of employees. Providing counselling for employees is a game changer for opinion/thought leaders to start teaching in their business to become catalysts of hope and encourage employees to seek help when available.

What Are Some Of The Benefits Of EAPs?

Increased Productivity

EAPs are potent tools for enhancing workplace productivity and performance. Research shows that employee well-being can boost productivity by up to 25%. These programs, through workshops and counselling, alleviate stress, promote physical and mental health and increase engagement and morale. 

By demonstrating a company’s care for employee well-being, EAPs motivate employees to put in more effort, fostering a more productive work environment. 

Reduce Absenteeism 

High work stress can lead to poor work-life balance, a lack of motivation and innovation, and defensive behaviour in employees. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can reduce absenteeism and associated costs by providing support to help employees cope with stress and personal difficulties. Access to EAPs leads to 4.8-6.5% fewer sick leave hours taken by employees.

Attracting Talent With Wellness

EAPs attract new hires by displaying a company’s commitment to employee well-being. Including an EAP in the benefits package demonstrates the employer’s commitment to addressing employees’ emotional and professional issues. 

Employee care is like a cornerstone that connects with the emotional side of a new joiner and provides them with more profound job satisfaction. The proactive strategy boosts the company’s reputation and gives it a competitive edge in the labour market.

Lead To Increased Employee Retention

Creating a positive work atmosphere is essential for retaining talented employees. Benefits such as mental health support, financial planning and legal assistance can help employees manage stress and personal challenges, increasing workplace satisfaction and loyalty. 

Employee assistance benefits can boost productivity and morale and reduce turnover by addressing issues proactively. Including these benefits in the offer letter or employee policies is also beneficial to promote transparency and trust. 

According to an American Health Association poll, 51% of employees stay at their jobs due to positive interactions with coworkers. Furthermore, this program is particularly effective at attracting and retaining younger personnel, such as generation Z and millennials. Mental health services are highly valued by generation Z, with 73% of them taking mental health support into account when choosing a career.

Employees are the vehicles of an organisation and they identify as the critical lever to any business functions and as employers, inevitably are responsible for presenting them with opportunities to help create a collaborative and thriving workplace and induce profitable growth by adopting holistic wellness programs.

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