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Component 5 Occupational Health and Safety Tip

Published on May 04, 2016

May 2-8 is Mental Health Week


Mental health is an important part of creating a healthy workplace. Fortunately, the stigma of mental health has begun to change and more and more people are willing to seek help. If you have concerns about your own mental health do not remain silent.


Self-care

There are many things you can do to maintain and improve your own mental health. Striking a balance between work and life is crucial. Spend quality time with friends and family, set realistic goals for yourself, eat well, get the right amount of rest and physical exercise. Self-care can only go so far however. Don’t bury your problems. Get professional help if you need it.

What can you do?

  • Take advantage of your Employee Assistance Program. It can provide important help to maintain all aspects of your health.
  • If you are concerned about your mental health see your doctor. 
  • If you have a condition you believe affects your ability to do your job, discuss this with your doctor. It may mean you require a workplace accommodation which may be a temporary accommodation or one that is a permanent/long term accommodation. Your doctor or mental health professional can assist you in making that determination.  
  • If you have been disciplined at work and you believe your condition has led to the discipline, make sure you discuss this with your shop steward or your BCGEU Staff Representative. This information may assist them in finding an appropriate resolution. Medical information is held in the strictest confidence. You do not need to disclose medical information to your employer without first consulting with a medical professional and or your staff representative.

Here are two websites with information on mental health in the workplace:

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Healthy Minds at Work 

Canadian Mental Health Association 

Happy Victoria Day and please stay safe and mentally healthy at work.

This safety tip is brought to you by your Component 5 OHS committee.

Download PDF of notice here.

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