Unum enhances Work/Life Balance Program for its employees

Unum (NYSE: UNM), a leading provider of employee benefits, has enhanced its Work/Life Balance employee assistance program for its U.S. employees.

The offering features comprehensive practical, emotional and lifestyle support to improve overall well-being so employees can balance the demands of life and work. Enhancements, offered through HealthAdvocate, include:

• An expanded counselor network and video counseling options
• Medical Bill Saver™ for helping employees understand and manage medical bills
• Free consultations with local attorneys on a variety of legal topics
• 24/7/365 support for employees, spouses, children, parents and in-laws

“EAPs are a first line of defense in protecting the wellbeing our employees and are an important component of a comprehensive well-being strategy,” said Laurie Mitchell, assistant vice president of health and well-being at Unum. “They provide fast, confidential solutions from stress and mental health management to caregiving support or financial and legal advice that could otherwise quickly escalate.”

Unum research reveals that the most common sources of stress originate outside the workplace and include money worries, family and relationship issues, personal health and the health of family members. The stress of life’s challenges can impact the ability to focus at work and can lead to greater problems without early intervention or proper management.

“The Work-Life Balance program is just one of the benefits and programs we have for employees to help them live their best,” Mitchell said.

EAPs are work-based intervention programs secured by an employer and designed to support employees and their families through a variety of problems. Employees can seek help with personal, family, and work issues through confidential phone-based counseling, and EAP counselors can triage local specialist support when additional help is needed.

Unum plans to expand the enhanced offering to its employer customers in the coming weeks.