EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free, confidential resource available to all members. The EAP team provides personalized support and guidance for many concerns.

Our EAP team works directly with employees to determine the best course of action tailored to their needs to ensure they have the most appropriate resources. This may include consideration of location, level of care, insurance coverage, personal circumstances, and any individual concerns employees may have.

We encourage all employees to take full advantage of this free, confidential resource that is always available. By working with the EAP, employees will have access to:

• Confidential consultation and support
• Personalized referrals to treatment, recovery, or sober living options
• Assistance with ensuring insurance is compatible
• Coordination with workplace policies with a plan for returning to work

The goal of the EAP is to meet employees where they are and connect them with the right support at the right time. Reaching out to the EAP does not require a crisis, disciplinary issue, or a formal referral; support is always available to you.

To get more information or to request assistance, please contact the EAP department.

ASSESSMENT: The most important step in the EAP process is to determine the nature and extent of your problem. It is always in your best interest to consult with your EAP coordinator before making any treatment choices. Once you have discussed the nature of your problem, your EAP coordinator will generally recommend a course of action for you. This can range from a single, on-site session to individualized treatment, depending on the seriousness and complexity of the issue. The decision to accept recommended treatment is entirely yours. When a referral includes external treatment, the EAP staff will coordinate the appropriate resource and subsequent referral and treatment plans.

REFERRAL: Union leadership, stewards, or supervisors may become involved when someone either asks for help or when an apparent pattern of behavior indicates that some personal problems may be affecting the employee's ability to function on the job. An EAP referral may be initiated to prevent possible further harm to the employee.

FOLLOW-UP: A follow-up support system is available to employees to enhance their day-to-day recovery. The process includes workplace re-entry consultation, tailored self-help support groups and individual counseling sessions as needed.

OTHER RESOURCES: We realize that some people are more comfortable with options other than EAP. For more information you can contact Value Options EAP 24/7 at (800)288-0882 or Connecticare EAP 24/7 at (888)946-4658. For more self-help information or to contact a help organization directly, use the links provided.