Episode 2, Part 1: From Addiction to Advocacy: Nurses' Journey

In the first of a special two-part episode of The Symptom Media Podcast: Bridging the Divide in Mental Health, we confront the deeply personal and systemic issue of substance use among nurses. Our guests, Kristin Waite-Labott and Dr. April Lenzmeier, share their firsthand experiences with addiction, the consequences they faced, and the paths they took toward recovery. Kristin, a seasoned nurse and founder of WisPAN, opens up about her struggles with drug diversion, which led to incarceration, and how she has since dedicated her life to supporting other nurses in recovery. Dr. Lenzmeier, a nurse with nearly three decades of acute care experience, reflects on her battle with alcohol use disorder, its impact on her career, and how she now helps others through peer support and advocacy.Through their candid stories and professional expertise, this episode sheds light on the hidden struggles of nurses with substance use disorders, the stigma that keeps many from seeking help, and the systemic changes needed to create a culture of recovery. Listeners will gain insight into the realities of addiction within the nursing profession, the challenges of seeking treatment, and the power of peer-driven support networks. Whether you are a healthcare professional, educator, student or advocate, this conversation provides a crucial perspective on protecting both nurses and the patients they serve.For more information about the resources shared in this episode you can visit:Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation - Learn more about the foundation's important work and their new All In For Mental Health Initiative For improving the operational workplace environment, visit the Caring for Caregivers program and; The Impact Wellbeing GuideInTheRooms, a global recovery site offering virtual support meetingsHow Nurses Are Helping Nurses At InTheRooms.com With Peer Support MeetingsNurses Peer Support Network of MinnesotaPeer Health Assistance Programs (PAS) of Colorado: https://peerhealthco.org/Wisconsin Peer Alliance for Nurses (WisPAN)[email protected] Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988, 1-800-273-8255 An Unlikely Addict - written by Kristin Waite-LabottRecovery Programs:Women for Sobriety Refuge Recovery Celebrate Recovery SMART Recovery Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)Alcoholic AnonymousUC San Diego Healer Education Assessment and Referral (HEAR) ProgramSecond Victim SupportInternational Nurses Society on Addictions (IntNSA)IntNSA Self-Care RoomNational Organization of Alternative Programs (NOAP)To learn more about Symptom Media and its mental health resource library visit: https://symptommedia.com/Sign up for a free trial today!  Listeners, get a special 20% discount on a Symptom Media subscription. Use code: 20discount