January 2022
Mental Health
The pandemic has increased our understanding and awareness of mental health in the workplace and heightened the demand for workplace mental health programs, supports, and resources. 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.
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.
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.
If you or someone in your workplace is experiencing a mental health crisis and needs immediate medical support, call 9-1-1.
Mental health crisis line workers are also available across BC.
- 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
Mental Health Resources and Tools
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 […]
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.
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 […]
