ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE COUNCIL FOR SOUTH LOUISIANA
                                                           

Employee Assistance Program

The Employee Assistance Program- EAP for short, helps employees resolve personal problems through professional assistance.

What kind of problems?
Marital, family or emotional crises, alcoholism or other drug dependencies, financial complications and any other problems that may surface.

But doesn't everyone have problems like those at some time?
Of course; and most people, by themselves or with the help of friends or family, can solve them without professional assistance.  But sometimes problems can be of such a magnitude that this help simply isn't adequate.  That's when EAP can help.

How does one get involved?
EAP encourages voluntary participation.  If a person thinks they have a problem they can call the EAP number (985-879-2272) and set up an appointment.  The company also recognizes that not everyone will admit they have a problem and seek help.  So it is possible that a supervisor may recommend that an individual employee talk to the EAP personnel.

Who can use EAP?
Any employee of the company is eligible, regardless of classification.

Can family members participate?
Yes.  The company recognizes that an employee's personal problems can affect the family and that a family's personal problems can affect the job performance.  So, an employee's family members are encouraged to use EAP as needed.

Who will know if an individual uses EAP?
No one.  EAP is strictly confidential.  Only the individual receiving services can authorize the release of information.

Who will a person talk to?
A professional EAP counselor will work directly and confidentially with the employee or family member to help resolve the problem.  In some cases, the EAP counselor's role will be to assist in determining what additional community resources can provide future assistance.

What about the cost of EAP?
The cost of EAP is covered by the company.  Costs associated with referral may be covered by medical benefits.

Will using EAP be documented in a personnel record and then threaten an employee's future with the company or even the individual's present job?
No.  The company encourages participation in the program to help employees become better able to do their job.  There is no moral or promotional stigma associated with using EAP.  In fact, the whole purpose of the program is to enhance job stability and career development.