“Not everyone has a supportive family. Right. So being able to be that person for people in the workplace is sometimes really hard, but it’s also really important and it’s helpful to be able to coach our leaders as well, to be able to be there for their people and to recognize the signs and symptoms of someone who may be struggling in this space.”
The journey into overdose prevention in workplaces may seem daunting to some, but Kristina Ewing joins us to unpack how we can put powerful, practical strategies in place to save lives. We discuss how creative benefits planning can stem the cycle of addiction and how tools like Narcan can become as essential in workplaces as fire extinguishers. Let’s challenge ourselves to think bigger and act bolder when it comes to safeguarding our colleagues and loved ones.
Kristina shared the need to approach addiction through prevention and preparedness. Her insights into the health plan design process reveal how businesses can create systems where opioid misuse is minimized before it begins. This includes covering safer pain management protocols and ensuring access to Narcan as a preventive measure. Often regarded as a daunting step, distributing Narcan within workplaces should not be any riskier than having first aid kits readily available. The impact of Kristina’s passion for her work in mental health and opioid reduction is inspiring, shedding light on how industries like construction—which are disproportionately affected—can address these pressing challenges head-on.
This episode reminds us of the vital importance of open conversations. As Kristina pointed out, the more we reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, the more people will feel empowered to seek help. Recognizing warning signs and supporting one another in the workplace can transform a silent struggle into an opportunity for collective healing and safety. As we walk away from this episode, let us remember that overdose prevention is not just a workplace issue; it’s a human issue. It’s about fostering a culture of empathy, readiness, and proactive action. Together, we can build healthier, more connected environments where everyone can thrive. Until next time, take care, and let's continue creating workplaces where working minds work well together.
Bio
Kristina Ewing brings a distinctive approach to the wellbeing space by drawing from previous careers in retail management and corporate finance. Guided by Andersen’s mission statement to be the “Builder of Choice”, Kristina consistently implements comprehensive award-winning programs that prioritize health, provide exceptional service, and maintain fiscal responsibility.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kristina serves on industry-wide committees dedicated to increasing awareness around various aspects of wellbeing, with mental health stigma reduction at the forefront.
In her personal time, you’ll find her working to maintain favorite auntie status, loudly supporting her Portland Timbers, and trying to not let her competitive side ruin game night.
Takeaways
Proactive Prevention: The best way to prevent opioid addiction is to address it before it starts. Kristina emphasized the importance of creative benefit planning and ensuring the availability of Narcan in workplaces.
Utility of Narcan: Dispensing Narcan at work may seem daunting, but it's as crucial as other life-saving measures like fire extinguishers. It’s safe, easy to use, and crucial for preventing opioid overdose deaths.
Breaking the Stigma: Regular conversations about mental health and substance misuse can reduce stigma and encourage those struggling silently to seek help.
Show Notes
Contact Kristina on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-ewing-98aa9867/