Daniel Hearn: Transforming Personal Struggles into Workplace Advocacy
You literally, in my opinion, have earned your freedom and continue to do so. It's daunting, it's overwhelming to think about sobriety, recovery early on, and that's why you know in the program it's kind of that One Day at a time, sometimes one moment at a time.
Picture this: a young man grappling with substance abuse, losing everything dear to him, including his son. Fast forward four years, and that same man, Daniel Hearn, is now a beacon of hope and education for others battling similar demons. In this heartfelt episode of 'MENtal Health: It's Time to Talk' with Allan Kehler, Daniel opens up about his tumultuous journey from addiction to recovery and his newfound mission to educate workplaces on substance abuse disorders.
Daniel's story is one of resilience and redemption. He spent 16 years as a welder, where he not only witnessed but also experienced the detrimental effects of substance abuse in the workplace. Realizing the urgent need for change, Daniel took a bold step toward recovery and has since dedicated his life to spreading awareness and hope. Currently enrolled in an Occupational Health & Safety course, he's on his way to becoming a substance abuse professional.
Throughout the episode, Daniel sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of substance abuse in the workplace. He passionately discusses the importance of addressing these behaviors and creating supportive environments for those struggling with addiction. From advocating for modified work programs to allowing time off for counseling, Daniel emphasizes the need for workplaces to be accommodating and understanding. But it's not just about policies and programs; it's about human connection.
Daniel shares his personal experiences of learning to love again and reconnecting with loved ones during his recovery journey. He underscores the importance of support systems and the power of sharing personal stories to break down stigma. Daniel's work extends beyond this podcast. He's actively involved in developing training programs for opioids, naloxone, and cannabis awareness. His message is clear: recovery is a daunting process, but it's one that no one should have to face alone.
Tune in to hear Daniel's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into creating a more supportive and educated workplace when it comes to substance abuse.