Duane Osterlind, LMFT
Duane Osterlind, LMFT
202: Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction and Recovery in the Workplace with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether
202: Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction and Recovery in the Workplace with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether
202: Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction and Recovery in the Workplace with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether
Monday 10th October 2022
Cheryl Brown-Merriwether shares strategies for breaking workplace stigmas around addiction and fostering a supportive culture on 'The Addicted Mind Podcast'.
46 minutes
Informative
Empowering
Supportive
Hopeful
Transformative
About this podcast
Author:
Duane Osterlind, LMFT
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Sobriety Toolkit
Recovery from Trauma
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Links:
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Episodes:
231 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Shattering Workplace Stigmas: Cheryl Brown-Merriwether on Addiction and Recovery
We just want people to know that they exist so that they can circumvent that scary HR department.
Imagine feeling unsafe to talk about your struggles with addiction at work. In this episode of 'The Addicted Mind Podcast', host Duane Osterlind sits down with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether, an HR and recovery support professional, to discuss how workplaces can become safe havens for those battling addiction. Cheryl brings a wealth of experience from her time in corporate HR and recovery education, making her a powerful advocate for breaking the silence around addiction in the workplace.
Cheryl highlights some eye-opening statistics: about 70% of people using illicit drugs are employed, either full-time or part-time. Yet, the stigma surrounding addiction keeps many from seeking the help they need. She shares innovative approaches like creating affinity groups and promoting corporate social responsibility to foster a culture of support. These initiatives make it easier for employees to come forward and seek help without fear of judgment.
One key takeaway from Cheryl's conversation is the importance of recovery allies—people who have either been through recovery themselves or deeply understand the process. These allies provide invaluable support, encouragement, and accountability, making a significant difference in an individual's recovery journey. Cheryl also delves into the role of corporate leadership in facilitating these changes.
From the C-suite to grassroots levels, companies are beginning to embrace addiction and recovery support, creating an environment where employees feel safe to discuss their struggles and seek help. If you're curious about how workplaces can better support employees dealing with addiction or if you're looking for ways to foster a more inclusive environment at your own job, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring stories.
Cheryl Brown-Merriwether's expertise provides a roadmap for breaking down barriers and building a supportive workplace culture.