Your EAP is Failing

Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) are widely used by organisations to support employee wellbeing, but evidence suggests they may not be delivering the intended impact.

Current research indicates that only 3–5% of employees use EAP services. Some avoid them due to concerns around confidentiality or trust, while others feel these services are not tailored to their needs. In some cases, over 60% of callers are referred to self-help materials rather than speaking with a professional.

This highlights the need for broader, more integrated approaches to support the needs of employees.

Tactics for Life

There are useful principles from Positive Psychology and relationship research that apply beyond work and into daily life.

1. Intentional Connection 

Regular, intentional connection - whether with colleagues, friends or family - helps build trust and understanding. Simple daily interactions, active listening, and being fully present contribute to more meaningful relationships in all areas of life.

2. Shared Experiences and Resilience

Shared experiences - whether joyful or challenging - strengthen bonds. Travelling together, solving problems, or simply managing life’s unexpected events with others encourages mutual support, empathy, and adaptability.

3. Aligned Goals and Meaningful Rituals

Shared goals create unity. Whether in family, friendships or teams, aligning on priorities brings focus and purpose. Small rituals - like meals, check-ins, or celebrations - help maintain connection and a sense of belonging.

While EAPs remain a useful tool, they should form part of a broader approach to wellbeing that includes daily connection, shared purpose, and support. Applied thoughtfully, these principles can help build stronger relationships and greater fulfilment at work and in life.

If you're interested in learning more about these ideas or exploring them further through a keynote presentation, please feel free to get in touch.