Employee Assistance Program offers wellness sessions

So the holidays are over — it’s back to work, getting the kids back into school routines and paying the bills. It’s a stressful time for many people, and if you are feeling it, you may want to attend “Seasonal Stress,” a free Health and Wellness session being offered to employees on January 20, for some tips. It’s the first of a series on similar topics. Consider it your mental workout.

Offered through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at the U of M, the series includes sessions on meditation, boosting positive outlook, creating balance in your life, stress relaxation techniques and successful transition to retirement.

You may not be aware of it, but EAP is a benefit that goes above and beyond in aiding with physical and mental health and wellness issues, and supports and assists employees and their immediate family members in assessing and resolving work, health and life issues. All university staff and faculty are eligible for these services.

This confidential support service for staff and immediate family members (as defined in individual’s employee benefit plan) allows recipients to receive support over the telephone, in person, online and through a variety of self-guided resources. Participants receive immediate, relevant support in a way that is most suited to their preferences, learning approach and lifestyle; highly qualified, experienced and caring professionals can help them to select a support option that works best. No one, including your employer, will ever know that you have used the service unless you choose to tell them.

Here more information from the website:

Immediate, confidential help for any concern.
Your EAP is a confidential and voluntary support service that can help you take the first step towards change.  We’ll help you find solutions to all kinds of challenges at any age and stage of life.  Whether you have decided to get in shape, are considering buying a new home or want to find a better work-life balance – we have the expert insight to get you on your way.

Available at no cost to you.
There is no cost to use your EAP.  This benefit is provided to you by your employer.  You can receive a series of sessions with a professional and if you need more specialized or longer-term support, your EAP can suggest an appropriate specialist or service that is best suited to your needs.  While fees for these additional services are your responsibility, they may be covered by your provincial or organizational health plan.

The services are provided by Shepell, a national organization that provides behavioural health and social services, including employee and family assistance programs. See wellness calendar here.

The sessions offered as as follow:

·         Seasonal Stress, Jan 20
·         Meditation: An Introduction, Feb 2
·         Booting Your Positive Outlook, Feb 4
·         Creating Balance in Your Life, Feb 12th
·         Living Well with Stress & Stress Relaxation Techniques, Feb 26
·         Successful Transition to Retirement, March 3 and 23

>> You can sign up for individual sessions here.