World Mental Health Day focuses on mental health in the workplace

Creating healthy workplace environments where employers and employees contribute to the well-being and safety of everyone else is of the utmost importance for our overall wellbeing.

This is why mental health in the workplace is the theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day.

An initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO), Mental Health day is observed every year on Oct. 10 to raise globally raise awareness on mental health issues.

According to the WHO, globally more than 300 million people suffer from depression and more than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders.

Since adults spend a majority of their time in the workplace, creating healthy work environments can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and a better awareness of mental health can lead to better support for those who are diagnosed with mental disorders.

The WHO is encouraging employers this year to focus more towards the mental health of their employees that will result in healthier employees and higher productivity rates.

In fact, a recent study estimated that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy US $1 trillion each year in lost productivity.

This year’s World Mental Health Day is focused on giving employers the tools to promote mental health in the workplace by reducing work-related risk factors, promoting mental health by developing positive aspects of work and the strengths of employees, and addressing mental health problems regardless of the cause.

A healthy workplace is especially important for members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

In recent years, CAF leadership is beginning to focus more and more on awareness, tools, and resources concerned with mental health for the wellbeing of their soldiers.

“I am committed to ensuring that the mental wellbeing of our men and women in uniform is a priority. CAF leadership provides responsive support services and programs for the needs of our members, and I commend the men and women who seek the treatment and help they need in order to be their best selves,” said Gen. Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff, in a statement during last year’s Bell Let’s Talk Day.

Help is available for CAF members and military families. If you are a military member seeking assistance for a mental health concern, you can visit a social worker at any CFHS Centre. Family members can reach out to social workers at the local Military Family Resource Centre. Canadian Forces Military Assistance Program (CFMAP: 1-800-268-7708) or call the Family Information Line at 1-800-866-4546.

Additionally, a multitude of resources are available online for CAF members on the DND website  

Take this simple test to determine if you need further screening for depression.