By Dr Fadh Yusof
Healthcare professionals work in high-pressure environments where clinical demands, shift work and personal responsibilities intersect. These pressures can influence mental fitness, productivity and relationships.
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is an important, confidential and free resource offering employees a range of supports. Accessing an EAP is free as is it fully funded by your employer – you just need to make sure you are using the one your employer partners with.
Their programs are designed to improve mental health, resilience, and workplace satisfaction through flexible, accessible services delivered by qualified clinicians.
Four EAP services that are especially relevant to healthcare professionals
1. Employee counselling
Broad support: Assistance for emotional concerns, workplace stress and interpersonal issues.
Confidential environment: A private space to talk openly about your wellbeing.
2. Nutrition support
Specialist input: Tailored advice on nutrition, healthy habits and lifestyle changes.
Mindfulness integration: Strategies that link nutrition with overall mental wellbeing.
Actionable steps: Practical recommendations to support sustainable health goals.
3. Legal support
Expert sessions: Up to two consultations with a legal specialist.
Range of topics: Family law, tenancy, real estate matters and consumer disputes.
4. Financial counselling
Money management: Coaching around budgeting, debt and financial planning.
Wellbeing‑focused approach: Tools to reduce stress and build long‑term confidence.
Before you access support
Hospitals differ in which EAP provider they use. Before accessing services, check which EAP your hospital partners with and request your organisation code, which is required when booking appointments or downloading the provider's app.
Here is a quick guide to the EAP partners for several major health services:
Converge International: Partnering with Monash Health, Northern Health, the Royal Children’s Hospital, the Royal Women’s Hospital, the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and Barwon Health.
Assure: Partnering with Eastern Health, Alfred Health, and St Vincent's Hospital.
TELUS Health: Partnering with Northeast Health Wangaratta and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
Caraniche: Partnering with Western Health.
Dr Fadhullah (Fadh) Yusof is a Paediatric Registrar at Monash Children’s Hospital.