What is the challenge?
In response to the growing level of concern surrounding mental health injuries in the workplace, organizations are increasingly looking for opportunities to invest in training programs and resources to better support their employees’ mental health. However, the challenge of supporting mental health and wellness in the workplace is complex. Employees often face high levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, while managers grapple with the responsibility of maintaining productivity while looking after employee well-being. Stigma surrounding mental health further exacerbates these challenges, making it difficult for individuals to seek help and support when needed.
What is the response?
Recognizing mental health as a core component of health and wellness, St. John Ambulance Canada developed its Mental Health and Wellness for the Workplace (MHWW) training in 2020. The training focuses on peer-to-peer support in the workplace and provides practical tools for participants to support their own well-being at work. In alignment with SJA’s value of service to others, the course also focuses on how to recognize and offer support to colleagues who may be struggling with their mental health.
In 2023, recognizing the pivotal role managers play in the workplace, SJA Canada developed MHWW: Manager’s Training (MHWW-M). This course focuses on developing leadership skills that prioritize employee well-being, create supportive work environments, and assist in the effective management of mental health-related issues in the workplace.
The tailored training approach – offering a separate course for managers – allows for a learning environment where participants can speak freely about the challenges they face in their unique roles, without worrying if their employee (or employer, in the case of MHWW) will have an adverse reaction to what they share. Participants engage in important discussions surrounding mental health at work and share effective strategies and tips on building resilience for themselves and their teams.
What has been your biggest piece of learning from your work this year?
The most significant learning from the MHWW programs this year was recognizing the vital role that managers play in creating a psychologically safe workplace. Participants in the manager’s training have gained insights into the importance of leading by example, fostering trusting relationships, and prioritizing employee well-being as a strategic imperative. By giving managers the skills and knowledge to support their teams’ mental health, organizations develop cultures of care and compassion which benefit both employees and the organization.
This case study was written by Canada’s National MHWW Facilitation Lead, Morgan Tryon, for our Annual Report 2023.
