When I sent out my message about the newly formed Steering Committee for Workplace Mental Health Injuries at CSC in October 2015, I made it clear that addressing this topic in a meaningful and effective way was very important to me. That is why I’m proud to be a part of this edition of Let’s Talk Express that tells the personal stories of CSC employees who have been diagnosed with mental health injuries as a result of their work.
Corey, George, Scott, Lizanne, Tamara, Ken, and Michael should be commended for coming forward and sharing their stories for this purpose. I believe that by doing so, they have placed a spotlight on this important issue and opened the doors for others who may be struggling in silence to come forward. I thank them for their honesty, their bravery, and their commitment to making CSC a better and healthier place for everyone to work.
Over the course of recent months, we have taken steps to educate CSC employees about the potential mental health injuries that can happen as a result of their work in corrections by offering the Road to Mental Readiness Training (R2MR). First pioneered by the Department of National Defence for its staff, this leading-edge training will equip CSC employees with the same tools and knowledge as other first responders across the country. I encourage all of you to take it once it becomes available to you.
As well, we have produced a new and comprehensive InfoNet page for staff who experience a mental health injury. On it you will find information about what to do and where to go when you need assistance. We welcome your feedback so that we can make it as helpful to you as possible.
Moving forward, we still have a lot of work to do. Research suggests that workplace mental health injuries in Canada have been on the rise for quite some time now, but I want CSC to be at the forefront of a proactive, positive response to the health and well-being of our staff. I acknowledge that we have gaps to fill in this regard, but I assure you that I am personally committed to seeing this through.
As we continue to develop tools and resources to better support you and your mental health at work, they will be shared with you. I thank you for your dedication to our organization and for the good work you do every day, despite how difficult and challenging it can be.
Comments
Thanks Commissioner Head for this other initiative. Seeking myself some support on this, I am please to read this and to see that CSC will become more aware and more OPEN to hear and understand staff that would be seeking help and exposing their stories.
Again, well done. GP Poulin
Thank you for your comment. We are happy to hear that you have found this edition of LTE helpful. Thank you for reading!
Recognizing that all of us can be affected by mental health issues or injuries I applaud the Commissioner for the forward open and very accessible information for staff with in the CSC.
Having a recent loss in the Pacific Region of a truly respected member of our family this Let's Talk Edition could not have come at a better time.
Please remember no matter how dark and desperate you think you or suspect someone close to you is suffering in silence or floundering in the wing, reach out and just be there for them.
Utilize your CISM and EAP reps in the institutions and community - they are there to help and listen.
Stay strong every one.
Thank you for your comment. We are happy to hear that this edition of LTE has resonated with you. My condolences to you and your colleagues.