In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought a wave of uncertainty and isolation to people everywhere. Hoping to bring people together during a difficult time, Child and Family Services Employee Assistance Program (EAP) launched its first webinar just weeks later.
Fast forward five years, and EAP recently hosted its 100th webinar. This milestone celebrates the commitment to improving employee wellbeing both in and out of the workplace. The webinar, titled “How the Workplace Has Evolved: 5 Years Post-COVID,” featured a diverse panel of Human Resources experts who reflected on their experiences and shared insights into the future of workplace culture.
Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, this conversation felt especially timely, shining a light on how important mental health resources are for employees. The pandemic changed many things, blurring the lines between work and home life. It forced employees to juggle new responsibilities and resulted in added stress and anxiety for many.
The panelists spoke about the importance of meeting employees where they are both physically and mentally. “When people are mentally and physically healthy, they are more productive,” said Megan Andrews, Director of EAP. Supporting the unique circumstances of each employee not only enhances their wellbeing but also strengthens their work.
EAP has played a vital role in helping employees and their families find balance, access help and feel supported during challenging times. “Since the pandemic, our client base has grown about fifty percent,” explained Megan. “It tells you that employers see access to mental health services as an essential component of their wellness strategies.”
As the workplace evolves, providing mental health resources like EAP plays a key role in creating healthier work environments. You can learn more about EAP’s services at eap.cfsbny.org.