• A wellness program can include access to outside resources an employee can turn to for support, information, and concerns.
• Resources can include an employee assistance program (EAP) or a health coach.

Employee assistance program: An EAP offers professional assistance and counseling services for a variety of issues. These can include issues that impact an employee’s mental health, including marital and family problems, job stress, health issues, legal problems, and drug and alcohol concerns. Providing employees with resources for dealing with these challenges can help improve employee well-being.

The confidential service is usually offered to both employees and dependents. Encouraging the use of EAP services to address personal problems before they become unmanageable can help prevent an employee from turning to alcohol or illegal drug use to cope.

Many firms provide special considerations for individuals who voluntarily come forward, admit to a substance abuse problem, and seek assistance. EAP services can also be used by employees who have tested positive for alcohol or illegal drugs and are required to complete a substance misuse evaluation and treatment program.

Employers should make sure employees are aware of the availability of EAP services and that these services are confidential. An employee may be suspicious and wonder if an employer will be alerted to problems or will be made aware of information shared with the provider.

Share with employees the steps the company takes to keep EAP information confidential. This may include assuring employees that billing is done in a way that does not reveal the name of the patient or that the only report the company receives will be the number of visits and, in some situations, the nature of the problem being addressed.

Health coach: A health coach works with employees to improve well-being. A coach with expertise in well-being, nutrition, and other aspects of physical health can motivate and encourage employees to make lifestyle changes that support good health. A health coach can offer advice on a personal level.

The coach and employee can address specific areas of concern or work on issues that were uncovered during a healthcare assessment. They can meet virtually or in person to create a plan. The coach often works with employees to set goals toward a healthier lifestyle, bringing positive, long-term changes to diet and exercise habits.

A health coach may help employees:

• Lose weight,
• Improve diet,
• Find ways to be more active,
• Manage diabetes,
• Manage high blood pressure, and
• Reduce stress.

A company can contract with an outside firm to provide these services, work with a local healthcare provider, or hire a health coach and have this resource on staff.

As with an EAP, confidentiality should be stressed. The health coach needs to follow Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements; personal health information must not be shared with the employer.