What an EAP is and how it works

An EAP gives you free, confidential support through work - here is how it actually works.

2 min read · Awareness resource · Reviewed 2026-09-15

An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a confidential support service your employer provides, usually at no cost to you. It helps with anything affecting your wellbeing or work - stress, relationships, money, grief, trauma, substance use and more.

What you can use it for

Counselling for personal or work stress
Relationship, family or parenting struggles
Financial and legal guidance
Trauma and critical-incident support
Substance, gambling or other concerns
Manager support for a struggling team member

How it works

You self-refer - just reach out (call, app, WhatsApp)
A first confidential session explores what's going on
You get short-term counselling and/or a referral
Your employer never sees who used it or what was said

Why use it

It is free, confidential, and there precisely so you don't have to wait until things become a crisis. Using it is smart, not a sign of failure.

Getting help in South Africa

Your Cleared Mind / EAP line (see your workplace details), or SADAG 011 234 4837.