What is the “Employment Assistance Programme” or “EAP”?
Employee Assistance Programs (or EAPs) are non-profit agencies that provide counseling services for many sensitive issues. Each agency operates individually, but within guidelines of the internationally recognized EAP organization. In the Cayman Islands, a large number of private companies, together with the Government, have come together to provide this vital service. We are financially supported by a minimal fee, based on the number of company employees. The EAP helps businesses achieve maximum productivity from their valued employees by assisting individuals with personal or social problems. While we do offer career counseling, we are not an employment agency, as some believe.

Why were “EAPs” started?
In 1917, Macy’s Department Store in New York City was the first company to establish counseling programs for their employees. However, it wasn’t until the 1970’s that the term “Employee Assistance Programs” became common. Alcoholism had become such a problem that managers had to prohibit drinking on the job due to severe accidents. In the past, it has been standard procedure for corporations to fire their “troubled employees.” Now there is an expanding belief and a growing number of studies that show it may be more cost effective to direct employees into counseling or treatment, through programs such as an EAP. A comprehensive survey of Fortune 500 Companies conducted by the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found an increase in EAPs from 25 percent in 1972 to 57.7 percent in 1979.

Why would someone need “EAP” services?
Personal problems, health conditions and drug/alcohol abuse have the potential of affecting work performance. It is estimated that 18% of the work force have personal problems that can decrease their productivity by as much as 25%. Absenteeism and tardiness is often excessive. An employee’s personal problem is likely to cause stress, anxiety, depression or even physical illness. An effective EAP can help prevent or improve medical and emotional problems by reductions in sickness, absenteeism, turnover, medical claims, terminations, overtime costs, and manager’s time saved. Health agencies and insurance companies have estimated that every dollar spent for EAP services can save at least $5 in future health and emotional treatment costs.

What are some signs that I may need help?
Emotional - anger, hostility, emotional withdrawal, flat affect, frustration.
Physical - heart disease, headaches, stomach distress, loss of libido, sleep disturbances.
Familial - infidelity, marital/family problems, separation, divorce.
Behavioral - absenteeism, alienation, alcohol or drug abuse, “burn out.”
Psychological - anxiety, depression, paranoia, suicidal thoughts.
Criminal - shoplifting, theft, assault.

Who is the “EAP” for and who uses the “EAP”?
The EAP is a confidential resource for employees, designed to enhance quality of life. The benefits spin off to the employer with higher levels of productivity in the workplace, and to the wider community, with its positive impact on families and general society. The system is heavily dependent on “self-referrals” as employees request help from the EAP on their own when problems/difficulties surface. The EAP is designed for enlightened work environments in which a non-punitive approach is encouraged. Its objective is to assist employees who may be experiencing impaired performance for reasons outside of the workplace. The EAP is based on a system in which supervisors are also trained how to identify employees for referral to EAP counselors, who will assess the problems and make appropriate referrals as needed.

Who else can use the “EAP”? Can my family use the “EAP” services?
Family members can also receive help through the EAP or participate in the employee’s counseling. Employees may enter the program voluntarily or a manager may refer an employee. Some important features of a good EAP are confidentiality, voluntary participation, and assurance that an employee’s job security and promotion are not affected because he or she is seeking help.

What kinds of problems can the “EAP” help me with?
The EAP can help you with problems such as:

Will my boss or anyone else know when I have visited the “EAP”?
No- this programme is confidential. When you use the EAP, no one at work will know unless you tell them. Information is released only with your signed consent. Most EAPs do provide their companies with a regular reports on how many times EAP services have been used.

How much will I have to pay?
Initial evaluation and counseling sessions are available to you at no cost when you work for an enrolled employer. If your employer is not a member, you may still use our services for a fee agreed upon between you and the counselor. Just call for an appointment:
949-9559.

What kinds of services are available?
Assessment - counselors will help to identify major issues and develop a plan of action.
Counseling - to help clients develop a better understanding of their problems.
Management referrals - clients can be referred for help by a work supervisor.
Referral - to resources on or off island when required.
Training Courses - provided on specific topics, or at company request.
Counseling Groups - support groups that meet regularly for dealing with sensitive issues.

What does membership include?
Business membership includes, but is not limited to: One-on-one counseling for managers, employees, and families; Semi-annual Supervisor Training Sessions; Staff Orientations; Quarterly Utilization Reports; Receipt of our quarterly newsletter; Access to videos and reference materials; On-site group counseling sessions. The membership fees are nominal -- just $25 per full-time employee per year. In addition to the above, membership includes full access to our popular interest groups dealing with current issues.

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