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 – 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.

Manufacturing Sector Mental Health Strategy

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.

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 – 1-888-353-2273
    • Fraser Health – 1-877-820-7444
    • Vancouver Coastal Health – 1-866-661-3311
    • Northern Health – 1-888-562-1214
    • Island Health – 1-888-494-3888

This Action Guide is based on the idea of protecting employees’ psychological health and safety.

Mental Health Resources and Tools


Mental Health in the Workplace

Toolbox Talk

The workplace can be an essential factor to maintain positive mental health – 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 […]

Mental Health Awareness

Course

Mental health is feeling good about who you are, having balance in your life, and managing life’s 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.

Mental health awareness

Poster

You are not alone. 1 in 5 of us will experience a mental health concern this year.

Mental Health News


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 […]

News

Beyond the mask – life after the pandemic

by Andrea McKinlay Exploring the psychological experience of taking off our masks.   While many of us dream of the day we can step into a mask-less future, the thought of discarding them for good is a source of anxiety for others. For many, the mask has become a rule of engagement during the pandemic in many everyday scenarios. Masks are […]

Mental Health Resources and Websites

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Guarding Minds at Work

Guarding Minds at Work is a comprehensive resource to help you assess and address psychological health and safety in your workplace. 
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BC’s Hub for Workplace Mental Health

Workplace mental health has never been more important. BC’s Hub for Workplace Mental Health is here to help.
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Mental Health First Aid Canada

Mental Health First Aid is the help provided to a person developing a mental health problem, experiencing a mental health crisis, or a worsening of their mental health.
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BounceBack

BounceBackÂź is a free skill-building program designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry. Delivered online or over the phone with a coach, you will get access to tools that will support you on your path to mental wellness.
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Psychological Health and Safety | An action guide for employers

To foster a pragmatic integrated approach to workplace mental health in Canada, the Workforce Advisory Committee (WAC) of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) collaborated with the Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction (CARMHA) at Simon Fraser University to examine the relevant scientific and ‘grey’ literature on approaches to improving the mental health of employees.
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Solutions for responding to mental health at work

Talking about mental health at work can be challenging. But becoming more aware of signs of mental illnesses, and learning how to have those difficult discussions are part of being an effective leader.
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Mental health issues at work

We spend a great deal of our time at work, and the financial and human costs of workplace mental health issues can be huge.
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Understanding mental illness in your family

If you have someone in your family with a mental illness, you may be wondering what is going on.
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Virtual mental health supports

Virtual services are available for British Columbians who are experiencing anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges.

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Antidepressant Skills at Work

This workbook is intended for: Working people with low mood, who may be at risk for developing depression; Working people who have developed a mild or major depression; Partners, family members, friends or workplace colleagues who want to help; Employers, supervisors or managers concerned about their staff; Treatment providers who would like a tool to use as an adjunct to their clinical treatment.
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Mental Health and Human Rights – Part 1: Challenging Stigma

Unfortunately, due to stigma and unfair stereotypes about mental illness, it can be difficult for people to speak up about their mental health. It can be a lot easier to share that you have a physical illness, an injury, or some other form of physical disability than it is to disclose that you’re going through a mental health crisis.