The Employee Assistance Program, or EAP, is a free benefit that provides short-term counseling and various referral services to Fitchburg State University faculty and staff, and their household members. This service is provided by Mass4You and sponsored by the Group Insurance Commission.
MASS4YOU
GIC benefit-eligible employees and their immediate family members can access benefits by either calling Optum’s GIC dedicated phone number (1.844.263.1982) or visiting Optum’s website (access code Mass4You).
Members with concerns over substance use/abuse issues can call Optum’s confidential Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Hotline at 1.855.780.5955. Employees can also download the Optum Assist mobile app on their iPhone or Android device.
Why Would I Use the EAP?
Life can get pretty stressful. Whether your daily challenges are routine, or more urgent, your free EAP is a simple and invaluable resource for you. Many people consult the EAP just to be reassured that what they are experiencing is a typical response to a concern such as job loss, divorce or the serious illness or death of a loved one. Please note that the EAP does not replace or prevent you from accessing the mental health benefits of your own medical insurance.
Are These Services Confidential?
Yes, no one will know you use the EAP unless you tell them. Information you discuss with an EAP counselor remains private unless you sign a release of information, permitting the EAP to contact a specific person. Only in rare instances does the law require a licensed counselor to notify an outside party. These situations occur when there is a serious threat to self or others or the abuse/neglect of a child, elder or disabled person.
It’s free, confidential and available 24/7. Get support for:
- Financial or legal concerns
- Help with alcohol, tobacco, gambling or drugs
- Workplace or relationship issues
- Parenting and family problems
- Stress, anxiety or depression
- Child and elder care questions
- And much more