HR Insights from SHRM 24: 4 Big Things to Think About When Choosing an Employee Assistance Program

HR leaders get it—mental health matters. But while more companies are beefing up their Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), getting employees to use them is a real challenge. Stress levels are spiking, and HR teams are feeling the pressure.?

At SHRM 24 in Chicago, we caught up with industry peers to talk shop. One topic kept bubbling to the top: finding the?right?employee benefits plan isn’t just tricky—it’s crucial. Here’s what’s trending in the world of employee mental health.?

Getting People to Engage?

Low EAP usage is a major buzzkill. Despite rolling out multiple programs, many companies struggle to hit engagement rates of over 5%. But some solutions stand out by integrating digital tools and personalized support to bump those numbers up. SHRM’s latest data shows that more comprehensive EAPs can make a difference.?

The Stigma Struggle is Real?

Even with all the mental health awareness campaigns out there, stigma is still a brick wall. A 2022 poll by the American Psychiatric Association found that less than half of workers feel comfy talking about mental health with their boss. If we want employees to ask for help, we need to break down this barrier.?

Younger Workers Want More?

Millennials and Gen Z aren’t shy about asking for solid mental health benefits—they expect them. These younger employees make mental health support a standard question in job interviews. To attract top talent, companies need to offer flexible and diverse mental health options. It’s not just a perk; it’s a must.?

Keep It Simple, Please?

HR leaders are all about simple and effective solutions—no added headaches, please. With the rise of AI and automation, there’s a fine line between opportunity and overload. The goal? Streamline processes without sacrificing employee support. The market’s moving towards straightforward, user-friendly solutions that actually help.?

HR pros, we’re all in this together. Keeping up with these trends will help us not only meet employee needs but exceed them. Got some cool mental health solutions that are working for you? We’d love to hear how you’re moving the needle on engagement and support.?

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