Addiction in the Workplace: The Facts

DESCRIPTION:

One addicted employee creates a ripple effect. Their struggle interferes with the smooth functioning of their entire work area.  You can help. Studies at Bellwood Health Services reveal that their most successful clients are those who have been referred for treatment by, and receive continuing support in recovery from, their employers. Learning to identify and support your addicted employees can increase productivity, create a safer work environment and significantly improve morale.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Discuss what addiction is and learn its predisposing factors
• Examine various addictions (alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual and Internet) and see how each can manifest itself in the workplace
• Review safety and other performance issues arising from addiction that could be detrimental to other employees as well as the organization
• Acquire tools and resources for dealing with a colleague, subordinate or even a superior who may be exhibiting some of the signs of an addiction
• Learn how employers can benefit when they promptly identify employees who are struggling with an addiction and support that employee through their recovery
  

ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Jennifer Kotry works as a therapist in the innovative sexual addiction and PTSD programs at Bellwood.  Her role includes designing and providing psycho-educational sessions and individual case management for both programs.  She is also a group therapist in Bellwood’s core program, facilitates outpatient groups and provides therapeutic outpatient services to individuals, couples and families.   Prior to her present duties, Kotry coordinated Bellwood’s family program, facilitating the program, providing psycho-educational information to clients and families and offering counselling and support to family members. She has also presented addiction education to various groups, both in-house and in the community.