Understanding substance use and the workplace

Understanding Substance Use – presented by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) – will provide viewers with educational information and answer questions about the use of substances. Some of the learning will include topics on what substance use means, risk factors for potential problematic use, stigma, myths, and a look at some specific drugs like alcohol or cannabis. You will also hear from a nurse with experience with a substance use issue and his journey to recovery and managing work. The discussion will be followed by a question-and-answer period.

Our presenters

Joe Yaremchuk is a registered nurse who graduated from Camosun College in 2000. He works full-time in an ambulatory clinic in Penticton, mostly wound care, ostomies, lines and drains. He has been clean and sober since September 20, 2015, and spends his free time powerlifting, long-distance cycling, making art and seeing live music whenever possible.

Shawna Meister is the Associate Director of Innovation and Evidence in Practice with the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. She conducts evidence-based research on substance use affecting the workplace and alcohol- and drug-impaired driving. Her background includes research, projects, and publications on impairment and safety-sensitive industries, substance use and workplace policies and practices, various road safety, and alcohol and cannabis use.

Bryce Barker, Ph.D, is a Senior Knowledge Broker at the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. He has worked on various alcohol and workplace-related projects at CCSA, focusing on policies, practices and programs. Bryce holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Guelph and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Human Kinetics from the University of Ottawa.