Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, like the flooding and landslides caused by Hurricane Helene in our home state of North Carolina, bringing destruction and uncertainty. This natural disaster has created a significant need for mental health, financial, and legal guidance, as well as resources for home and life management. During this challenging time, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) play an important role in providing support and resources to help you navigate the aftermath.
What is an EAP?
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a company-sponsored, confidential program designed to help you and eligible dependents connect with external professionals and resources to address personal or work-related issues that may impact your job performance, health, and overall well-being.
EAP Resources for Hurricane Helene
EAPs provide essential support and referrals in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, tailored to help you connect with professionals to manage the unique challenges and stresses that arise as you recover and rebuild. These services can include:
Counseling Services
EAPs offer confidential counseling to help you process experiences, manage emotions, and build resilience, tailored to the trauma and impact from Hurricane Helene, including support for:
- Trauma, Loss, or Grief
- Anxiety, Depression, or Stress
- Alcohol/Substance Use
- Behavioral Change
Financial and Legal Guidance
- Financial Consultations: Financial coaches assist with reorganizing the family budget and managing a financial crisis caused by Hurricane Helene.
- Legal Services: Access legal documents such as power of attorney, and call for a free legal consultation with licensed attorneys who can assist with legal challenges arising from the natural disaster.
Care Resources
- Elder and Adult Care Resources: Receive referrals for the elderly, disabled adults, and their caregivers during your consultation with our specialists, including finding temporary care solutions and support services.
- Childcare Resources: Consultants advise on how to select childcare centers, in-home care, after-school care, and disability resources, especially important when regular care arrangements are disrupted by Hurricane Helene.
- Pet Care Referrals: Consultants offer comprehensive referral services to assist with veterinary selection and boarding for pets affected by the natural disaster.
Home and Life Management Services
- Home and Transportation Resources: Obtain information and referrals for household repairs, transportation, and housing rental searches, particularly useful when dealing with property damage and displacement caused by Hurricane Helene.
- Identity Theft Resources: Access resources to protect and recover your identity if it has been compromised during a natural disaster, a common issue when personal documents or information are targeted by phishing scams posing as financial aid or donation requests.
Accessing Your EAP Services
If you are enrolled in an EAP through Pierce Group Benefits, contact the EAP by navigating to the provider’s contact information in the benefits guide on your organization’s custom microsite. Contacting an EAP service is free and confidential, with 24/7 availability and additional online resources on their websites.
Partnering with Pierce Group Benefits
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the well-being of both employers and employees is paramount, highlighting the necessity of robust support systems to aid in recovery. Partnering with Pierce Group Benefits (PGB) provides access to comprehensive EAPs designed to offer support during these challenging times. For more information on EAPs, speak with your Pierce Group Benefits Account Executive or get in touch with a PGB Representative at partnership@piercegroupbenefits.com.