The ISSUP Exchange
The ISSUP Exchange
Podcast Description
The ISSUP Exchange Podcast series explores the evolution in responses to the challenges of substance use from an evidence, quality standards and ethical best practice perspective. From research and training to networking and knowledge-sharing: we help to link it all up and make sure you see the big picture.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on the evolution of responses to substance use challenges, exploring evidence-based practices, ethical standards, and best practices. Episodes include discussions on Motivational Interviewing, its origins, and its application in various fields like healthcare and sports, and emphasize the role of authentic human connection in facilitating behavior change.
The ISSUP Exchange Podcast series explores the evolution in responses to the challenges of substance use from an evidence, quality standards and ethical best practice perspective. From research and training to networking and knowledge-sharing: we help to link it all up and make sure you see the big picture.
In this third episode, Associate Professor Goodman Sibeko and Associate Professor Nadine Harker discuss how workplaces can identify early signs of substance use and mental health challenges among employees, and respond appropriately before issues escalate.
Prof. Harker explains the occupational factors that increase risk, the visible and behavioural cues supervisors should look out for, and the importance of distinguishing between informal and formal referrals. She outlines how supervisors can express concern, make soft referrals to employee wellness or HR, and when formal action becomes necessary.
The discussion also covers how consistent health promotion, supportive policies, and structured employee assistance programmes can help organisations address problems early, reduce stigma, and maintain both compassion and productivity.
Featured Voices
Host – A/Prof. Goodman Sibeko
ISSUP Global Scientific Advisor.
Head of Addiction Psychiatry, University of Cape Town.
LinkedIn: goodmansibeko
Twitter/X: @profgsibeko
Guest – A/Prof. Nadine Harker
Specialist Scientist in the Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drug Research Unit of the South African Medical Research Council.
Time Stamps
[00:00] – Introduction
[00:22] – Occupational Risk Factors and Early Warning Signs
[04:11] – Training Supervisors to Respond
[06:42] – Soft Referrals and Organisational Duty of Care
[11:30] – Formal Referrals and Employee Assistance Programmes
[11:10] – When Help Is Declined
[11:57] – Closing Reflections
About the ISSUP Exchange
The ISSUP Exchange podcast series explores the evolution of responses to the challenges of substance use—from research and training to ethics, quality standards and evidence-based practice. We connect the dots so you can see the big picture.
Explore more episodes and join the ISSUP podcast community here>>>
About ISSUP
ISSUP is a global network that unites, connects, and shares knowledge across the substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery support workforce. Our mission is to make our members’ work as effective as possible—by providing access to training, resources, and a vibrant professional community.
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