ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Employee assistance programs

Employee assistance programs (EAP) are services that help workers with different kinds of problems. An EAP gives you someone to talk to when you have a problem that's bothering you, and they'll help you figure out what to do about it.

Just like when you ask a teacher or a parent for help when you have a problem, you can also ask your EAP for help. The EAP team is usually made up of different professionals like counselors, psychologists, social workers, or nurses. They all work together to help you with your problems.

Some of the things that an EAP can help you with are:

- Personal problems like stress, anxiety, depression, or addiction.
- Family problems like relationship issues, childcare, or eldercare.
- Work-related problems like bullying, harassment, or conflicts with coworkers.

When you need help, you can contact your EAP through a phone line, email, or website. They'll ask you some questions to understand your situation better and then offer you some options for help. They might give you advice, offer counseling sessions, connect you with other professionals, or refer you to support groups.

The most important thing to remember is that an EAP is here to help you when you're having a hard time. It's OK to ask for help, and there's no shame in it. The EAP team will keep your information confidential, and they won't share it with anyone without your permission. So if you need some support or guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to your EAP.