An employee’s psychological health can never be neglected in a comprehensive model of Workplace Wellness Programs. Originating out of a need for alcohol abuse initiatives 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 individual issues.
Evidence of the need for such initiatives is wide spread. In a national survey conducted by the Northwestern Life Insurance Company (1992) 46 percent of employees reported that their job was very stressful, 34 percent thought about quitting their jobs because of workplace stress, and 14 percent did leave their job because of stress. Alcohol and substance abuse problems and issues of workplace violence and harassment are common areas of concern. For many the only viable treatment solution is the Workplace Wellness Program. Exemplary Workplace Wellness Programs will include:
• Personalized assessment of employee concerns
• Assistance in treatment choice
• Emphasis on prevention and treatment
• Individual and family counseling initiatives
• Treatment for addictions:
Drugs
Alcohol
Gambling
• Crisis intervention initiatives
• Stress management
• Ongoing support groups
• Management and employee training to identify individuals at risk.
• After treatment care
