Employee Assistance Programs and Behavioral Health Disability

Abstract

The definition of an employee assistance program (EAP) varies depending on where in the world the EAP is functioning, what standards are being applied, the nature of the services offered, and the country in which the EAP operates. In general, regardless of the location, type, and model, an effective EAP program serves two clients: the work organization and the individual employee. An EAP is “a professional assessment/referral and/or short-term counseling service offered to employees with alcohol, drug, or mental health problems that may affect their jobs” (Masi (2011) Definition and history of employee assistance programs in correct Understanding and application of EAP necessary for all entities that implement measures for mental health. Kabushiki Kaisha Roudou, Tokyo, Japan. Retrieved 11 Aug 2017). As the EAP field has developed, many EAPs are now much more broad-based with an emphasis on variety of problems that may affect work/life balance including parent/child issues, family concerns, legal concerns, and financial concerns. The point of access for EAP's has also changed as EAP's have evolved.  Previously, EAPs were accessed primarily by a supervisor referral. At present, EAPs are still accessed in this manner but also by employee self-referrals.