Should Your Company Offer an Employee Assistance Program?

Why EAPs Matter—Especially During Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to prioritize well-being in all areas of life, including the workplace. As conversations about mental health become more open, one tool stands out for its practical value and positive impact: the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). If your organization hasn’t considered offering one, now is the time.

What is an EAP? An Employee Assistance Program is a confidential service that provides employees with resources to address personal or work-related challenges. EAPs often offer counseling, legal advice, financial planning, crisis intervention, and referrals for additional care. These services are typically available at no cost to the employee and can be accessed 24/7.

Why Mental Health Support Matters

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year.¹ The effects on workplace productivity, absenteeism, and morale can be substantial. The World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy over $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.²

Providing proactive mental health support is both ethical and beneficial for businesses.

Should You Offer an EAP?

If you’re focused on building a healthy, resilient team, the answer is yes. EAPs are particularly valuable for small and mid-sized businesses that may lack in-house HR or mental health professionals. They fill a vital gap by offering support that your team can access privately and immediately.

Here are some key reasons to consider implementing an EAP:

• Enhanced Employee Well-being: EAPs provide immediate support to help employees manage stress, anxiety, grief, and other challenges that impact their overall well-being.
• Increased Productivity: When employees feel supported, they can focus better on their work and stay engaged.
• Reduced Absenteeism: Identifying issues early can help prevent long-term absences and burnout.
• Lower Healthcare Costs: Early intervention can lead to reduced reliance on more costly health services.
• Stronger Retention and Recruitment: Companies that prioritize mental health thrive in today’s competitive job market.
• Better Workplace Culture: EAPs foster a culture of care, compassion, and trust.

Real Results: What the Data Says

• A 2023 report from the Employee Assistance Professionals Association found that 86% of EAP users reported improvement in their work performance.³
• According to SHRM, companies with EAPs experience a 21% reduction in absenteeism and a 14% increase in employee retention on average.⁴
• The American Psychiatric Association estimates that for every $1 invested in mental health programs, employers see a $4 return in improved health and productivity.⁵ 

Make Mental Health Part of the Plan

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s a powerful moment to reflect on how your organization supports employee well-being. A strong benefits strategy isn’t complete without mental health resources, and Employee Assistance Programs are one of the most effective ways to provide them. Offering an EAP is more than a benefit; it’s a clear message to your team that their well-being matters.

At PT Business Solutions, we believe in meeting businesses where they are. Whether you’re a small employer looking to introduce benefits for the first time or a growing company seeking to enhance your existing offerings, we tailor solutions that make sense for your team. Our approach combines personalized service, efficient technology, and ongoing support to ensure a seamless experience for both employers and employees. We partner with you to implement Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and other mental health initiatives that promote a healthier, more productive workplace.

Let PT Business Solutions help you take the next step toward a stronger, more supportive culture. Because when your people thrive, your business does too.

Sources

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Mental Health by the Numbers. https://www.nami.org/mhstats
2. World Health Organization (WHO). Mental Health in the Workplace. https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/mental-health-in-the-workplace
3. Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA). Workplace Outcome Suite Annual Report 2023. https://www.eapassn.org/Research-Foundation/Workplace-Outcome-Suite
4. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Employee Benefits Research Reports. https://www.shrm.org
5. American Psychiatric Association (APA). Center for Workplace Mental Health – Return on Investment (ROI). https://workplacementalhealth.org/Employer-Resources/Return-on-Investment-ROI