“Do it now. Don’t hesitate.” People at the Heart spotlights EAP support

The latest episode of RiskSTOP Group’s People at the Heart podcast is now live, and it focuses on something many of us may need at some point – support.

In this episode, host Johnny Thomson explores the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) available to colleagues through the MyBenefits package, and the real-life circumstances that can prompt someone to reach out.

At the heart of the episode are two honest and personal reflections from colleagues, Louisa Clarke and Natalie Joyce, who share what was happening in their lives when they decided to use the EAP and how support helped them through a difficult period.

Lou describes the period after completing cancer treatment, when the “all clear” didn’t bring the relief she expected. “I'd just been told that I was cancer-free. But there was no follow-up to it. It was literally told one day that I was cancer-free and then just sort of set free.”

'I didn't know what to do'

As unresolved emotion and anxiety built up, she reached a point where she knew she needed help. “I just felt I was being buried, and I had nowhere to siphon it off. I didn't know, I didn't know what to do. And it was exhausting trying to deal with that.”

Nat shares her experience of using the EAP during a challenging time related to perimenopause, including the impact of coming off hormone replacement therapy. “And the decline in my health and mental health was really rapid. Looking back on it, it was almost overnight.”  

She explains how symptoms affected every part of life – especially sleep – and why counselling support became an important part of recovery.

Across both stories, the episode highlights the value of professional, confidential support when life feels unmanageable. It reinforces a message many people need to hear: you don’t have to struggle alone.

As Johnny puts it, “the truth is no one calls the EAP because everything is going well.” And when it comes to taking that first step, Lou’s advice is simple: “Oh, gosh, do it. Do it now. Don't hesitate.”

Listen to this episode of People at the Heart here

A quick reminder: how to find the EAP

For RiskSTOP Group colleagues, the EAP is available via MyBenefits.

If you’re going through a difficult time, please consider exploring the support available. You don't need to struggle alone.

People at the Heart exists to make space for real stories and honest conversations. This episode is a timely reminder that support is there when you’re ready to use it.

Listen to more episodes of People at the Heart here.