Building a healthy workplace for all | A message from the Defence Team Mental Health co-Champions

October 1^st, 2021 - Defence Stories

Every October, Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month (CHWM) highlights the importance of practicing workplace habits that promote a healthy mind, body, and organizational culture.

This is a time for all of us to reflect on the well-being of Defence Team members and our shared goal of creating a work environment across DND/CAF where every person is treated with dignity and respect.

A healthy workplace is one in which the organization supports the physical and psychological health and safety of all of its members by fostering a supportive environment where everyone can “Feel great at work!” – the 2021 theme for CHWM.

As your Defence Team Mental Health co-Champions, we want to kick-off the CHWM campaign by emphasizing the importance of fostering a psychologically healthy and inclusive workplace.

As we continue to navigate an unpredictable environment, the responsibility to serve our nation, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that we continue to have an open dialogue about mental health and well-being to ensure that you are well-supported, prepared, and equipped to deal with the challenging work we ask of you.

Join the discussion by participating in various panels, webinars, testimonials, and interactive activities that will offer insights into the mental health and lived experiences of military and civilian members, including some of the diverse groups that make up the DND/CAF, by registering here.

We also encourage you to follow the official DND/CAF social media accounts and check out the Defence Team’s CHWM web page to:

• learn how to build a healthier workplace;
• register for and participate in the webinars and virtual activities that are taking place this month in support of CHWM; and
• access the wide array of services and resources that are available for military members and public service employees that help build and maintain your personal health and overall well-being.

October also marks the annual Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 3-9), and World Mental Health Day on October 10, and we look forward to being part of these important discussions across the organization in support of healthier workplaces built on professionalism and an inclusive culture.

Thank you for doing your part to ensure that everyone at Defence truly feels like they are part of a team.