Mental Health and Safety First

Dear Colleagues,

Today, I want to take a moment to focus on an important issue that is often overlooked: mental health. One in five people each year will experience a disorder or issue that affects their psychological well-being. It can happen to anyone.

As you may know, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a real challenge for me personally, especially because of the stress and isolation I have felt throughout. And I know that many of you have had or continue to have challenges related to the pandemic or in other areas. While it is sometimes difficult to admit to experiencing mental health issues, I truly believe that it is important to talk about them in the workplace. It is the best way to get the help you need to regain your well-being and to help reduce the stigma that still surrounds this topic.

A New Mental Health Strategy for Parks Canada

It is important that all team members have the resources, support, and assistance they need to be well and thrive. It is also vital that you have a work environment that is safe and supportive, where you feel respected, valued, and heard. As such, I am very pleased to announce today the launch of the Mental Health Strategy, a first for Parks Canada! This strategy is the culmination of several years of work by the Workplace Health, Safety and Wellness Team. I look forward to putting into action the accompanying three-year plan, to take concrete steps towards ensuring that everyone’s well-being is at the centre of how we act and interact with each other every day.

Mental Health Week 2023

This year, the Mental Health Week 2023 will be held from May 1^st to 7^th, and its theme will be "My Story", because each of us has a unique and valuable story. The program of activities developed by the Workplace Health, Safety and Wellness Team is a great opportunity to take action on mental health. I hope you will all take the time to participate in one or more of the activities offered. I also encourage you to read our new strategy and to learn more about the free mental health services and resources available to you.

Safety and Health Week 2023

The Safety and Health Week will be held during the same week, with the objective to draw attention to the importance of preventing injuries and illnesses at work, at home and in the community. This year, the program presented by the Workplace Health, Safety and Wellness Team, offers a variety of activities such as an open house session to meet the team and to learn more about the programs they provide. Visit ParksNet to learn more about health and safety resources.

In closing, I encourage you to make your mental health and well-being a priority this week, and in all the weeks to come. If you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or to talk to your manager, because without mental health there is no health.

Take care of yourself, and let’s take care of each other.

Ron Hallman
President & CEO

#MentalHealthWeek #StrongerTogether #ParksCanadaProud

Reminder to managers: In keeping with Parks Canada's procedures for communications with employees, managers are responsible for ensuring all team members under their responsibility receive the information intended for them. It is important that you find a means to transmit this message and, if any, the attachment(s) to employees without access to Parks Canada e-mail or the intranet, e.g., by posting it, circulating a paper copy or by any other appropriate means.