Lakehead Gathers is a series of events all about creating a space where we come together, connect, and build a true sense of belonging among Lakehead employees. For more information, please visit our website at lakeheadu.ca/lakeheadgathers or email wellnesscoordinator@lakeheadu.ca
Lakehead University is committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our Lakehead community, recognizing that investing in the enhancement of health and wellness interventions will better position us for success. We are committed to advancing the wellbeing of our faculty and staff through the promotion of year-round Wellness initiatives that include physical and psychological health.
Regardless of the kind of work you do or where you are on the organizational food chain, the toughest part of your job is likely not the work itself. Chances are your greatest challenge is keeping yourself emotionally healthy and maintaining a balanced attitude towards others around you.When we come to work, we bring all aspects of ourselves – the things we’re thinking of or experiencing that bring us sadness or joy, anguish or pleasure. Between our emotional ups and coping with the mental health challenges of others – can be a daily challenge.
The Canadian stats show that at least 20 percent of the population will have a mental illness sometime in their life. That tells only one part of the story. That one-in-five statistic identifies only those with a diagnosable illness, and only those who have sought out medical help. The stat doesn’t reflect the whole picture. You know from your own experience of being in workplaces that there are many others who display a host of behaviours that reflect poor mental health. The effects can often leave people feeling confused, hurt or shut down. Dealing with different kinds of health issues is never a simple or straightforward matter.
Addressing mental health issues at work can be tough. It’s not always clear who’s struggling. Often those who struggle are not sick enough to stay at home yet not well enough to be fully engaged at work. They show up – present in body but not in spirit. Their behaviour may be difficult. It’s not always clear how to respond — professionally or personally.
Whether you’re dealing with someone’s mental illness in the workplace from the perspective of a leader or a colleague, the question remains: how can mental health issues be addressed so that everyone succeeds, and is given the support they need? According to recent surveys, there is a considerable difference in perceptions about the effectiveness and perceived behaviour of support. We need to create work environments that are emotionally safe and address issues so everyone succeeds
Source: Mental Health Works, https://www.mentalhealthworks.ca
Here you will find resources available to faculty and staff on an ongoing basis, supporting mental health and wellbeing. The links below provide many resources for Employees as well as Supervisors and we encourage you to explore these sites and utilize tools that meet your needs.
All Workplace Strategies for Mental Health resources are available to anyone at no cost, compliments of Canada Life.
Source: https://www.workplacestrategiesformentalhealth.com
Find more TED Talks related to workplace health and wellbeing here: Wellness Resources - TED Talks
Superior Mental Wellness @ Work project promotes workplace environments that reduce psychological hazards and maintain positive mental health for employees in Thunder Bay and the District.
Canadian Mental Health Association, Thunder Bay is offering several ASIST workshops throughout 2025. For details, visit CMHA Thunder Bay ASIST.
The Working Mind (TWM) is an evidence-based training program developed to initiate a shift in how you think, act, and feel about mental health. This foundational program is designed to provide practical knowledge and skills to reduce stigma.
Infrastructure Health & Safety Association is currently offering The Working Mind for Trades courses for workers and managers. These virtual courses are FREE (after reimbursement) for a limited time for member firms. For details, click on the WORKER course or the MANAGER course.
Infrastructure Health & Safety Association is currently offering this FREE virtual course for supervisors and leaders. It offers practical skills and tools for setting the tone for a healthy workplace, improving one's own mental health and supporting the mental health of workers who are struggling. For details, visit: IHSA Opening the Door to Support.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is offering Psychological Health and Safety Professional Certificate Training and Psychological Health And Safety: The Essentials Training. There are several virtual sessions in 2025. For details, visit: CMHA Psychological Health and Safety Training.
Workplace Safety North is offering the following workplace mental health sessions in person:
Interested in supporting mental health at work, but don't know how to get started? Download the Superior Mental Wellness @ Work toolkit with helpful information and resources. [PDF]
These cards list some key mental health crisis services available. [PDF]
Information cards provide helpful tips for workplace leaders and employees on supporting mental health in the workplace. [PDF]
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To sign up, visit the TBDHU.com/workplaces page and complete the "Sign up for our newsletter" form.
Superior Mental Wellness @ Work is a collaborative project that aims to promote workplace environments that reduce psychological hazards and maintain positive mental health for employees in Thunder Bay and across the District. It is coordinated by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and supported by an Advisory Group. The Advisory Group is made up of over 20 partners from local public and private sector organizations who work together to provide the supports needed for local employees to have optimum mental wellness. Membership is open to individuals with a desire to collaborate on ways to promote mental wellness in worksites across the region. Email workplacewellness@tbdhu.com to learn more or inquire about joining the Advisory Group.
Visit SuperiorMentalWellness@Work for more information.
