Worksite Wellness Programs: Employee Assistance Programs and Counseling Programs
An staff member’s psychological health can never be neglected in a broad-based model of Worksite Wellness Programs. Originating out of a need for alcohol abuse interventions in the workplace, today’s employee assistance programs (EAP) encompass assessment and counseling for substance abuse and dependency, stress related disorders, family conflicts and other personal issues.
Evidence of the need for such programs is wide spread. In a national survey conducted by the Northwestern Life Insurance Company (1992) 46% of employees reported that their job was very stressful, 34% thought about quitting their jobs because of workplace stress, and 14% did leave their job because of stress. Alcohol and substance abuse problems as well as issues of workplace violence and harassment are common areas of concern. For many the only viable treatment solution is the Worksite Wellness Program. Exemplary Worksite Wellness Programs will include:
• Individualized assessment of staff member concerns
• Treatment choice assistance
• Emphasis on prevention as well as treatment
• Personal and family counseling programs
• Treatment for addictions:
Drugs
Alcohol
Gambling
• Crisis intervention programs
• Stress Management Programs
• Ongoing support groups
• Management and staff member training to identify individuals at risk.
• After treatment assistance