Why Introduce an EAP

It is estimated that 300 people out of every 1,000, experience mental health problems every year in Britain. Of these:

• 230 of these will visit a GP;
• 102 of these will be diagnosed as having a mental health problem;
• 24 of these will be referred to a specialist psychiatric service;
• 6 will become inpatients in psychiatric hospitals.

The Health and Safety Executive's recent survey of self-reported work-related illness, revealed that 13.8 million working days were lost to self-reported work-related stress, depression and anxiety, and that each case of work-related stress, depression or anxiety-related ill health led to an average of 30.2 working days lost. In addition, the HSE estimated that the cost to the economy of these lost days was more than £530m.

Personal problems typically become personnel problems. An EAP will help your employees to access professional psychological counselling to help them address problems that may be causing them trouble in the workplace or in their personal life. The result is a healthier, more productive employee with improved relations at home and at work.

Appointing an EAP is a major step towards improving the welfare of your employees and to satisfying the requirements of Health and Safety legislation. This investment in corporate wellness is likely to be the most significant factor to influence the quality of work, productivity, attendance and retention of your staff. By addressing the personal needs of your employees, you can create a healthier corporate environment.

How does an EAP service work? »