The end of the year can be a challenging time for many people, with increased pressures around alcohol consumption, over-consumption, and other dependency behaviours. Whether driven by celebration, social expectations, a desire to belong, or an attempt to manage anxiety, pain, or stress, these challenges can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health.
With many organisations hosting social gatherings and events where alcohol may be present, this webinar explored the complexities surrounding dependency behaviours and the role workplaces can play in raising awareness and supporting colleagues.
Hosted by Inclusion in Finance’s Mental Health Community, the virtual panel discussion brought together four experts to explore the impact of substance misuse, particularly alcohol dependency, and its effects on individuals and workplace environments.
The session aimed to:
- Demystify addiction and dependency behaviours, helping to reduce stigma and encourage those affected to seek support.
- Explore how language and understanding around these topics continue to evolve.
- Share the lived experience of a professional in the investments and savings industry, including their journey towards recovery.
- Equip HR professionals and people leaders with practical tools for responding to these challenges.
- Highlight best practices and insights shared by the MindForward Alliance
Speakers included:
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- Brian Heyworth: Chair of Mind Forward Alliance, and Managing partner and CEO of Lansdowne Partners
- Poppy Jaman: Founder and Executive Vice Chair of Mind Forward Alliance and former CEO of City Mental Health Alliance and Mental Health First Aid England.
- Dr Wolfgang Seidl: Partner, Workplace Health Consulting Leader, Global Mental Health Consulting Leader at Mercer Marsh Benefits, Trainer and Professional Speaker.
- Max Cohen: Trainer, facilitator and therapist, from The Natural Psychiatrist.
- MODERATOR: Dr Judith Mohring, organisational psychiatrist with 25 years’ experience in all aspects of mental health. She studied medicine at Cambridge and London universities.
Content note: This session explored sensitive topics relating to addiction, dependency behaviours, and substance misuse. The discussion may be emotionally challenging for some viewers, and the recording should be approached with care and consideration.
