We all have problems from time to time, whether it's trouble making ends meet, difficulty finding childcare or challenges in our family relationships. CEA has negotiated the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a benefit to assist you in coping with life. It's a way to get help, and it's confidential.

Our program is run by People Resources, and there is no cost to you for confidential and private counseling services.

Through this program, you can find therapists, financial advisors, elder-care specialists and legal consultants; read helpful articles; and perform self-assessments by setting up your own account.

Topics you may need assistance with include: financial planning, health and wellness, marriage and family, stress and anxiety, legal problems, dependent care for children and the elderly, emotional and psychological concerns, community resources and alcohol and drug abuse.

It's good to consider counseling if you:

* feel overly preoccupied with a problem
* fail repeatedly to solve it by yourself+
* find yourself denying that a problem exists or hoping it will go away
* feel that you dont have the resources to solve it
* feel unhappy most of the time
* experience problems with family or friends because of it or
* get tired or sick from it

Don't wait until stress builds to a health-threatening level. To use the service, call People Resources at 800-765-9124. Operators are available 24 hours. You may also register at www.WorkLifeTools.com. Enter Columbus Public Schools as the company name to read articles, take self-assessments and find out more about the service.

Don't suffer alone anymore. Get help. It's your right!