An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a comprehensive service that is based on the early identification of employees with emotional or substance abuse problems. EAPs provide assessment of treatment needs, referral to the appropriate level of care, interface with external resources, appropriate follow-up and training to help supervisors identify and help problem employees.

EAPs have experienced phenomenal growth for a number of reasons. They help save jobs and money by reducing employee turnover.

EAPs have been shown to increase moral since they focus on helping employees become productive again. Because they deal with a wide variety of personal issues, EAPs help both employees and their family members resolve issues before they become overwhelming or impact work performance. EAPs are an effective tool in assisting supervisors to better manage the workplace and troubled employees. EAPs are a proactive way to extend a caring, helping hand while building a more productive workforce.