Need to talk? EAP can help

If you’re feeling unusually stressed or overwhelmed, help’s not far away. The University of South Alabama offers confidential counseling to benefits-eligible employees through the Employee Assistance Program.

“When people feel stuck or hopeless or are having distressing thoughts that aren’t normal to them, these are red flags,” said Julie Barker, L.P.C., C.A.D.C., a licensed professional counselor with university human resources. “I encourage everyone to be aware and reach out for help.”

Barker provides counseling for both campus and USA Health employees through a variety of methods, including phone, FaceTime, Zoom and in-person using masks and social distancing. Sessions can be a one-time event or the first in a series, and they can take place at a clinic, hospital or on campus – all confidential. There is no co-pay for full-time benefits-eligible employees, she said.

Barker’s main message is this: Don’t judge yourself for reaching out.

“It doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you,” she said. “Sometimes, it means we have to process through something that is causing you trouble.”

In addition, supervisors can schedule a block of time to give their employees the opportunity to meet individually with a counselor. “One manager noticed a lot of people were stressed or overwhelmed, not only with work but with home life, and wanted to offer them extra support,” she said.

Barker may be reached by calling 251-461-1346 or emailing jbarker@southalabama.edu.