Mental Health
The demand for workplace mental health programs, supports, and resources is greater than ever. It’s time to stop thinking of mental health as a taboo topic and remove the stigma of shame and fear around mental illness.
What is mental health?
Mental health is at a state of well-being where the individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the everyday stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and contribute to their community.
Why is mental health in the workplace important?
The workplace can be an essential factor to maintain positive mental health â but it can also be a stressful environment that contributes to mental health issues. When our mental health starts to deteriorate, it can be hard to enjoy life like we used to. The total cost from mental health problems to the Canadian economy is more than $50 billion annually and can contribute to lost productivity from absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover.
- Know the risk factors for mental health
- Understand the common signs and symptoms of mental health issues and how to recognize when an employee might be struggling with mental health issues
- Access tools, resources, and information to help address mental health in the workplace.
Mental illnesses are conditions in which a person’s mood and behaviours negatively impact their day-to-day functioning. These health problems can include depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance use, and other illnesses and addictions.
If you or someone in your workplace is experiencing a mental health crisis and needs immediate medical support, call 9-1-1.
Please take a few minutes to participate in our workplace mental health survey (approximately 5-7 minutes). Your feedback is important to help us create a workplace mental health strategy that works for ALL manufacturers in British Columbia.
Workplace mental health has emerged as a top priority for British Columbia manufacturers. Manufacturing leaders across the province recognize that post-COVID economic recovery depends on a mentally healthy workforce able to cope with relentless change.
Manufacturing Sector Mental Health Strategy
Mental Health Hotlines
- 1-800-SUICIDE for individuals who are or know someone who is having thoughts of suicide. Available 24/7 in up to 140 languages
- 310-Mental Health (310-6789) for individuals who would like emotional support, information, and resources specific to mental health.
- Health region crisis lines:
- Interior Health â 1-888-353-2273
- Fraser Health â 1-877-820-7444
- Vancouver Coastal Health â 1-866-661-3311
- Northern Health â 1-888-562-1214
- Island Health â 1-888-494-3888
This Action Guide is based on the idea of protecting employeesâ psychological health and safety.
Mental Health Resources and Tools
Toolbox Talk
The workplace can be an essential factor to maintain positive mental health â but it can also be a stressful environment that contributes to mental health issues. When our mental health starts to deteriorate, it can be hard to enjoy life like we used to. The total cost from mental health problems to the Canadian […]
Course
Mental health is feeling good about who you are, having balance in your life, and managing lifeâs challenges. It is the responsibility of both employers and employees to protect and promote mental health in the workplace to ensure people are psychologically safe. For an introduction to the fundamentals of workplace mental health, start with this 1-hour online course.
Poster
You are not alone. 1 in 5 of us will experience a mental health concern this year.Mental Health News
Creating a workplace that supports mental health
An innovative work environment enhancement program from Sensitivity Training Canada, the 3-Step Respect in the Workplace Sensitivity Training program helps create workplaces that support mental health. Employers are required to protect the mental health of their employees while they are at work, physically or virtually. This includes protection from harassment, violence and bullying. Some employers […]