R U OK? Day: Prioritising Mental Health with the EAP.

What is R U OK Day?

R U OK? Day is more than just a day on the calendar; it's a reminder for us to check in with our colleagues, friends, and loved ones, creating a supportive and open environment where mental health is a priority. At My Ability Pathway (MAP), we believe in nurturing a workplace culture where everyone feels valued, heard and supported, the well being of all our team members is a priority.

One of the key resources we make available to our team is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), provided by Acacia. This free and confidential service offers our team members access to professional mental health and well-being support, ensuring that help is always available when needed.

What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

Our EAP, facilitated by Acacia, is designed to support the mental health and well-being of all team members, with a holistic approach. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the EAP ensures that all team members and their immediate family, have access to confidential and timely assistance that aligns with each person’s unique needs and circumstances. Extending theses services to immediate family members supports the ‘bigger picture’ of an individual’s own personal wellbeing. The team at Acacia understand the importance of mental health and commit to providing a safe space where people can seek the support they need without judgment.

Types of Support Available Through the EAP

The services offered by Acacia under the EAP framework address various aspects of mental health and well-being, including:

1. Counselling Services: Team members can access confidential counselling sessions with trained professionals for themselves or their immediate family. These sessions can be conducted over the phone, via video call, or in person, depending on the individual’s preference. Counselling is available for a wide range of issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, financial concerns and more.
2. Critical Incident Support: In times of crisis, such as a serious workplace incident or a personal loss, team members can receive immediate support to help them cope and navigate the situation. Critical incident support is crucial in providing timely and compassionate assistance when it is needed most.
3. Financial Coaching and Legal Referral: Financial stress can significantly impact an persons mental health. Through the EAP, team members have access to qualified financial counsellors who offer guidance on budgeting, debt management, and other financial concerns. Legal advice and referral are available to help team members understand their rights and navigate legal challenges.
4. Workplace Mediation and Conflict Resolution: Mediation services are offered to assist in resolving workplace conflicts. Whether it's a disagreement with a colleague or a more complex workplace issue, mediation can help build understanding, improve communication, and restore harmony within teams which is vital for team members wellbeing.
5. Well-being Resources and Training: Acacia provides access to a wide range of resources, including articles, webinars, and workshops focused on enhancing well-being. These resources cover topics such as mindfulness, stress management, work-life balance, nutrition and building resilience.
6. Manager Support Services: Managers/Supervisors play a crucial role in supporting their teams there are specific services offed by Acacia to help them navigate the responsibility. Managers/Supervisors can receive guidance on how to approach sensitive conversations, support team members in distress, and manage their own well-being.

Why Accessing the EAP Matters

Seeking support through the EAP is a proactive step toward maintaining mental health and well-being. When team members utilise these services it is entirely confidential, the EAP is there to support our team members every step of the way. There is no shame in reaching out for help, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

How to Access the EAP

Accessing support through the EAP is straightforward. Our team members can contact Acacia directly, 24/7, to speak with a counsellor or arrange an appointment by clicking on the link here.

Conclusion

On this R U OK? Day, let's commit to creating a culture where checking in on each other is a daily practice, not just an annual event. The EAP provided by Acacia is here to help our team members navigate life's challenges, big or small.

R U OK? Let's make sure everyone is.