Training

Stewards, local executive members and committee members should have proper training so they can understand mental health and mental illness, know how to talk to members empathetically, and be able to approach employers knowledgeably.

Mental health is an ever-changing field, so even people who have had training should make sure it is up to date.

Sources of training:

The Mental Health Commission of Canada offers Mental Health First Aid Training which is a 2-day program that helps people recognize the signs of mental health illnesses and crises and understand how to respond appropriately.

The Canadian Mental Health Association offers a variety of courses including workplaces through Mental Health Works. Local CMHAs run short mental health and illness awareness courses and programs like safeTALK and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST).

There may be other service providers in your community that provide training as well.

Your union may have training or may be developing training. The CLC offers a course on mental health in the workplace.