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PsychChatDr Austin Tay is an organizational psychologist. Author: Dr Austin Tay
Dr Austin Tay is an organizational psychologist. In each podcast episode, he will discuss work-related issues that matter in the workplace. Through the lens of a psychologist, Dr Austin will provide tips and advice to his listeners to help them navigate the complex world of work. Email psychchat@omnipsi.com or send via Twitter @psych_chat to send your comments or suggestions. Dr Austin Tay is the founder of Omnipsi Consulting (www.omnipsi.com). OmniPsi Consulting specialises in executive coaching, leadership assessment and development, career transitioning, training and workplace intervention. Language: en Genres: Business, Science, Social Sciences Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Episode 058 - Addiction at Work: What It Really Looks Like (And How to Help)
Episode 58
Thursday, 5 March, 2026
What does addiction really look like — especially in professional life? Most of us carry an outdated picture of addiction. In this episode of PsychChat, Dr Austin Tay is joined by Karen Mills (Business Psychologist, Senior Manager for Adult Care, and PhD researcher in addiction) to unpack what addiction really is, how it hides in high-performing workplaces, and what leaders, managers, and organisations can do about it.In this episode, you will learn:• The difference between substance addiction and behavioural addiction• Why addiction is a compulsion — not a choice or moral failure• The behavioural, emotional, cognitive, and physical signs to look out for• Why high-performing professionals are particularly at risk — and why they hide it• How social normalisation (alcohol culture, prescription medication) makes addiction harder to spot• What UK law says: Equality Act 2010, Health & Safety at Work Act, Employment Rights Act• What organisations can do — from psychological safety to manager capability to HR policy• Why the first conversation should never be a formal HR meetingWhether you are an HR professional, a manager, an organisational leader, or someone who wants to better understand addiction — this episode will shift how you see it.About Karen Mills:Karen Mills is a Business Psychologist, Senior Manager for Adult Care, Director of Business and Strategy for Psychology Business Incubator (PBI), author, and PhD student researching addiction. https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-mills-fmbpss-certbp-1b1a59158/ResourcesHSE support for drug and alcohol at workManaging drug and alcohol misuse at work - Overview - HSENHS search for your nearest services in EnglandFind alcohol addiction support services - NHSAA website- Alcohol support networksalcoholics-anonymous.org.ukCGL- various services including drugs, alcohol and smokingChange Grow Live | Charity | We can help you change your lifeWith You- Drug and alcohol servicesDrug and Alcohol Support | WithYouAbout PsychChat:PsychChat is hosted by Dr Austin Tay, Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol) with over 30 years of international experience in organisational psychology. Each episode bridges academic research and real-world practice to help you understand the psychology behind the workplace.
