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.
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.
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.
Mental illnesses are conditions in which a person’s mood and behaviour 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.