Speaker Name: Dr. Maire Durnin-Goodman & Mathew Milen
Session Description:
Exposure to trauma is ubiquitous. Following adverse experiences, some may experience persisting psychological and physical symptoms associated with trauma, at times overwhelming their ability to cope. This may result in alcohol or substance use or even the development of a substance-related mood/anxiety disorder, PTSD, or another psychological injury. This increases the risk of protracted personal suffering, self-harm, adverse occupational impact, and prolonged disability.
Key components of an appropriate response are early identification, assessment, and engagement in the appropriate level of care, followed by ongoing monitoring in safety-sensitive and decision-critical occupational roles.
Recovery, however, does not end at the point of achieving abstinence and sobriety, or remission from any diagnosed mental disorder. It goes beyond merely stimulating resiliency, but instead incorporates a process of transformation, achieved through posttraumatic growth (PTG). This has been empirically shown to increase personal strength, enhance a greater appreciation for life, improve relationships, identify new possibilities, and foster existential/spiritual development. This form of personal growth is objectively measurable, can be achieved in a variety of work settings, and can be made accessible to all individuals exposed to adverse work or life experiences. This recovery journey culminates in full reintegration at work, optimized functionality, and the achievement of the highest attainable level of health and wellness.
Using a case-based discussion in a Public Safety Personnel context, this 2-part workshop maps the critical steps in this recommended peer-driven, workplace-administered, longitudinal approach, augmented by medical support. It further provides practical guidance for reintegration, monitoring, and maintenance of safety-sensitive and decision-critical workers affected by the consequences of trauma and addiction.
The principles and practices outlined in this evidence-informed workplace recovery model can be replicated and incorporated into a variety of diverse occupational settings.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the key elements of assessment, reintegration, and recovery at work;
- Articulate strategies to stimulate and measure posttraumatic growth;
- Integrate knowledge into a framework for promoting recovery, reintegration, and ongoing monitoring.
BIO
Dr. Durnin has worked in the field of addiction and occupational medicine for twenty years, across the spectrum of addiction.
She is recovery-focused on helping individuals through the treatment and recovery process.
This includes diagnosis, engagement in treatment, and getting individuals back to being productive members of society with the appropriate resources, support, and accountability.
She currently works in an opiate agonist clinic, a recovery center, and in occupational health assessments and monitoring.
BIO
Matew Milen is a Registered Clinical Social Worker, working with trauma-exposed Public Safety Personnel (PSP).
In his daily practice, he offers specialized psychotherapy modalities for persons with substance use disorders and those exposed to trauma, and he is a preferred provider with several PSP agencies in the Edmonton Region.
Mat regularly consults with peer- and workplace safety teams. He also engages in assessment of safety-sensitive and decision-critical workers, and assists workplaces in augmenting their recovery models.
Mat is the author/co-author of several peer-reviewed papers, and his work has been funded by CIHR.