Employers often ask, “What are the benefits of employee assistance programs, and how can I encourage employees to use them?”  EAPs are employer-sponsored programs that offer services or referrals to help employees manage personal challenges. These programs can boost employee well-being, satisfaction, performance and health.   Unfortunately, these programs are heavily underutilized. According to Mental Health America , 98% of mid- to large-sized companies offer EAPs, but only 4% of employees use them yearly. This represents a significant missed opportunity for employers and employees. Employers can use the guidance in this article to increase the use of their EAPs.  What is an EAP?  EAPs vary between organizations. Some programs focus specifically on issues such as mental health or substance misuse, while others offer expanded services to address eating disorders, marital issues, legal problems, childcare, care for older adults, gambling addiction and more.  Depending on how these progr