Despite the frigid temperatures and periods of snow, the spring semester is in full swing at Rensselaer. For many of our Rensselaer employees, work and personal life activities seem to pick up, and get a little more hectic. Whether an individual is looking forward to graduating in May, finalizing items needed for a grant renewal, seeking a promotion, working on completing portfolio initiatives, or dealing with health and financial issues, the everyday stress can become overwhelming.
In an effort to ensure that Rensselaer employees have an outlet to deal with some of these issues, the Division of Human Resources has contracted with Capital Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The organization provides free and confidential access to mental health counselors, as well as other services, including legal, financial, and educational support through local workshops. While Capital EAP professional counselors are experienced at managing even the most difficult mental health issues, individuals do not have to be experiencing a crisis to call the organization.
Curtis Powell
Recent studies indicate that stress or difficulty with sleeping can interfere with an individual’s happiness and physical health, which can also negatively impact one’s relationships, job performance, and overall quality of life.
In addition, studies indicate that 77 percent of employees regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress that may include fatigue, headache, nausea, muscle tension, and dizziness. This in turn can create behavioral issues such as irritability, excessive anger, feeling nervous, exhaustion, and problems with mood.
For some, making an appointment to see a counselor may not typically be high on the list of “fun things to do,” and some may feel that scheduling an on-site appointment for something small may not make a lot of sense. Rest assured, the professional counselors at Capital EAP can help with stress, and many other things that may be distracting individuals from living well and being happy and healthy.
Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Capital EAP to schedule an appointment at one of their five convenient locations within the Capital Region.
Individuals also have the option of speaking with an EAP Care Counselor at any time by calling (518) 465-3813. Counselors are on call 24/7 in the event of a crisis or emergency.
Additional methods of connecting with a counselor for non-crisis issues include visiting the Capital EAP website or submitting questions via email to questions@capitaleap.org.
Curtis Powell, SPHR
Vice President for Human Resources