Addiction remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatised issues in the workplace. While organisations have made significant progress in supporting employee mental health and wellbeing, many employees struggling with addiction still feel unable to speak openly about their experiences, fearing judgement, damaged career prospects or even dismissal.
In this episode of The HR Room, we're joined by Darren Grady, who spent 14 years concealing his recovery from addiction throughout a successful corporate career.
With Darren, Mary and Dave explore the hidden reality of addiction in the workplace, the trust gap between employees and HR, and why high-performing employees can often conceal serious struggles behind professional success.
The conversation also examines the difficult balance HR professionals must strike between supporting employees and protecting their organisations, and what employers can do to create an environment where people feel safe seeking help.
Guests:
- Darren Grady - Recovery Advocate and Speaker
In this episode, we discuss:
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Why employees experiencing addiction or recovery may be reluctant to disclose their circumstances to HR.
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How workplace stigma, confidentiality concerns and fears about career progression contribute to a culture of silence.
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Why high performance can mask addiction, and how organisations sometimes overlook problematic behaviour from successful employees.
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The challenges of balancing employee wellbeing, workplace safety and disciplinary responsibilities.
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The role of HR policies, Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and occupational health in supporting employees.
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How organisations can build greater trust, reduce stigma and create safer pathways for employees to seek support.
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Practical steps HR leaders can take, from reviewing policy language and training managers to reconsidering workplace drinking cultures.
Need support with your HR policies or employee wellbeing strategy?
At Insight HR, we help organisations develop practical, legally informed HR policies and procedures that protect their businesses while supporting their people.
Get in touch with our team at info@insighthr.ie or call 056 770 1060 to find out how we can help.
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