May 3, 2022
Mental Health Week
Know someone who is struggling with their mental health? You don’t need to solve their problems to help; listening & understanding is a real help. For this Mental Health Week, find more ways to help:
Canadian Mental Health Association Mental Health Week
Mental Health Downloads
The Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA) is Ontario’s trusted health and safety resource. With the goal to improve the lives of Ontario workers., providing resources and training that control and eliminate safety hazards in work environments involving high-risk activities.
The following are provided by IHSA:
Assessing your mental health - Download available here
Challenging stigma and preventing mental harm - Download available here
Declining mental health and suicide risk - Download available here
Psychological health and safety: a joint responsibility - Download available here
Why talk about mental health at work? - Download available here
Work stress and burnout - Download available here
March 31, 2022
Suicide Prevention Toolkits
The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), in collaboration with the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, the Centre for Suicide Prevention, and the Public Health Agency of Canada has developed two toolkits to support people who have been impacted by suicide. One toolkit is tailored for people who have attempted suicide, and the other is focused on resources for people who have lost someone to suicide.
March 10, 2022
Mental Health First Aid – Tips and Tricks
Mental health first aid expert gives some tips and tricks on how to deal with pandemic uncertainty and how to support those around you. To learn more listen here: CBC Information Radio
February 14, 2022
How to Have More Good Days
Kelly Hrudey, NHL goalie and Hockey Night in Canada commentator, shares his mental health journey.
Read more here: How to Have More Good Days article
January 31, 2022
MindFit Toolkit
Designed for men by psychologists and elite athletes our barrier-free MindFit Toolkit is a simple way to start improving your mental health. From inspiring blogs, to our MindFit Minutes series, to soothing soundscapes, the MindFit Toolkit will help you build the skills to cope with stress and anxiety better.
Link: MindFit Toolkit
January 24, 2022
PocketWell
One in 5 Canadians experience a mental illness or addiction problem - and nearly half of Canadians reported that their mental health worsened during the pandemic. With Wellness Together Canada's new companion app, PocketWell, you can track your feelings and mood or even connect to talk to someone one-on-one. Support is available 24/7 and is just a click away.
Find it in your app store today: Apple App Store and Google Play Store
January 10, 2022
Goal Setting in a Year of Uncertainty
The start of a new year usually means setting new goals and laying out fresh plans. But of course this year we need to adapt our ambitions to the reality of COVID-19. If you’re feeling unsure about where to start amid the uncertainty of the pandemic, these tips from clinical psychologist and University of Calgary professor Dr. Keith Dobson could put you on the path to success.
Read more here: Mental Health Commission of Canada
December 16, 2021
Mental health and the holidays
Feelings of stress are common during the holidays and the COVID-19 pandemic may amplify them. While it’s normal to feel a range of emotions during this time, you may be experiencing:
- worry about finances and gift giving
- fear of getting sick with COVID-19 or of making others sick
- family conflict resulting from differences in risk comfort level
- sadness about breaking important family traditions or being away from loved ones
Take care of your mental health. Try reaching out to a supportive friend, family member or the Boilermaker member assistance program to talk about any difficult emotions you may be feeling.
Know that it’s okay to skip family gatherings to protect yourself, your family and your community. Let your loved ones know ahead of time if you don’t feel comfortable gathering. Stay virtually connected to your friends and family through:
- phone and video calls
- emails
- text messages
If you live alone, consider spending the holidays with another household. Think about the risks and follow gathering precautions.
Have a safe and healthy holiday season.
October 27, 2021
MOVEMBER
Men are dying before their time. But you can help us change and save lives.
Mental health and suicide prevention, prostrate cancer and testicular cancer-we’re taking them all on. Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, shaking up research and motivating men to take action for their health.
October 05, 2021
Improve Emotional & Physical Well-Being
Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. Mindfulness is now being examined scientifically and has been found to be a key element in stress reduction and overall happiness.
Read more about Mindfulness here: ACPSMD.org website
September 20, 2021
Men's Mental Health
In Canada, rates of mental illness are comparable between men and women, however, men are less likely to recognize, talk about and seek treatment for their illness.This safety bulletin from Energy Safety Canada provides great information for everyone.
September 10, 2021
World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10th
Any significant change in behaviour can be a warning sign for suicide, and the more attention we give to those around us, the more alert we can be to these changes in behaviour.
Suicide Prevention - How to help
September 1, 2021
Suicide Prevention Creating Hope Through Action
Every year on September 10th, over 50 countries recognize World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2021. The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention provides a handy guide on how communities and individuals can be more proactive through action. Included are best practices, how to help, key messages, virtual events and First Nations Wellness. All are welcome to participate in a Candle Vigil September 10 at 8 pm.
More resources available here (Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention)
August 4, 2021
Mental Health First Aid COVID-19 Self-Care & Resilience Guide
The spread of COVID-19 has caused many Canadians to change their everyday lives. We are providing you with a document that you can download and serve as reference guide to help you deal with mental health challenges.
July 14, 2021
How can you help someone in mental distress?
Follow the 5 steps in an easy-to-remember acronym: ALGEE.
A - Approach & Assess
L - Listen Without Judging
G - Give Reassurance
E - Encourage Professional Help
E - Encourage Other Supports
July 2, 2021
Residential School Crisis Line
The legacy of the trauma created by residential schools affects any people. If you need to talk, in addition to our national FSEAP member assistance program, there is a national crisis line available at 1-866-925-4419 or visit https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1581971225188/1581971250953
Click image to enlarge
June 23, 2021
Online Suicide Prevention Training - Boilermaker LivingWorks START
The OHS department is adding the next building block to our mental health training program by partnering with LivingWorks to offer a suicide prevention training program. The course is 60-90 min long, online and interactive. The learning objectives include:
- Tune-in to signs that might be about suicide
- Ask about suicide – clearly, calmly and directly
- State that suicide is serious
- Connect a member/individual with thoughts of suicide to life saving help.
We're starting with Boilermakers Start as a pilot to gather member feedback and make sure we're on the right track. This feedback will guide the program going forward.
If you may be interested in this program, please contact the IBB OH&S department () to register.
June 7, 2021
Buddy Up
June 2021 is Buddy Up Month. In Canada, men have a suicide rate three times higher than women. Why? We have socialized men to be strong, stoic and self-reliant; showing emotion is a sign of weakness, as is asking for help. Further, men are underserved by our traditional health and social service sectors. Men are dying in alarming numbers, all around us, alone. How can we change this reality?
May 18, 2021
Coping with Stress, Anxiety and Substance Use During COVID-19
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have all experienced varying degrees of normal reactions to an abnormal event. In times of high anxiety and stress, it's more important than ever to safeguard your mental wellness.
May 5, 2021
Mental Health Week
The IBB knows all too well the importance of good mental health for its members and family. Let’s stay connected, keep talking and continue to support each other. For more information and recourse tools we encourage you to check out the CMHA webpage.
For anyone seeking help or assistance please feel free to reach out to our Member Assistance Program (FSEAP).
April 28, 2021
Driving mental health advocacy through education
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) free online education is aimed at building awareness and knowledge of mental health challenges and at reducing stigma.
Learn more: https://moodle8.camhx.ca/moodle/
April 27, 2021
MyGrief.ca
An online resource to help people work through their grief from the comfort of their own home, at their own pace. It was developed by family members who've "been there," and grief experts to complement existing community resources and help address the lack of grief services particularly in rural and remote areas. Visit the site at https://mygrief.ca/.
April 20, 2021
Tips on talking to someone in crisis during COVID-19
The current COVID-19 pandemic is a source of anxiety for people across the country and your colleagues, friends or family may reach out to you for support. How should you respond? The Mental Health Commission of Canada has provided active listening tips to navigate these sensitive conversations with more confidence.
April 9, 2021
Feeling low, stressed or anxious?
BounceBack® is a free program from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry. Working with workbooks and a trained coach to guide you and encourage you to reflect, BounceBack® can help you build skills to improve your mental health.
Learn more: https://bounceback.cmha.ca/welcome/
March 18, 2021
Infographic: Suicide in Canada
January 26, 2021
Self Care and Supporting Others
Now more than ever it is important to practice self-care to maintain our mental health. Additionally, by listening we can support others in need of assistance.
September 1, 2021
Suicide Prevention Creating Hope Through Action
Every year on September 10th, over 50 countries recognize World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2021. The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention provides a handy guide on how communities and individuals can be more proactive through action. Included are best practices, how to help, key messages, virtual events and First Nations Wellness. All are welcome to participate in a Candle Vigil September 10 at 8 pm.
More resources available here (Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention)
August 4, 2021
Mental Health First Aid COVID-19 Self-Care & Resilience Guide
The spread of COVID-19 has caused many Canadians to change their everyday lives. We are providing you with a document that you can download and serve as reference guide to help you deal with mental health challenges.
July 14, 2021
How can you help someone in mental distress?
Follow the 5 steps in an easy-to-remember acronym: ALGEE.
A - Approach & Assess
L - Listen Without Judging
G - Give Reassurance
E - Encourage Professional Help
E - Encourage Other Supports
July 2, 2021
Residential School Crisis Line
The legacy of the trauma created by residential schools affects any people. If you need to talk, in addition to our national FSEAP member assistance program, there is a national crisis line available at 1-866-925-4419 or visit https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1581971225188/1581971250953
Click image to enlarge
June 23, 2021
Online Suicide Prevention Training - Boilermaker LivingWorks START
The OHS department is adding the next building block to our mental health training program by partnering with LivingWorks to offer a suicide prevention training program. The course is 60-90 min long, online and interactive. The learning objectives include:
- Tune-in to signs that might be about suicide
- Ask about suicide – clearly, calmly and directly
- State that suicide is serious
- Connect a member/individual with thoughts of suicide to life saving help.
We're starting with Boilermakers Start as a pilot to gather member feedback and make sure we're on the right track. This feedback will guide the program going forward.
If you may be interested in this program, please contact the IBB OH&S department () to register.
June 7, 2021
Buddy Up
June 2021 is Buddy Up Month. In Canada, men have a suicide rate three times higher than women. Why? We have socialized men to be strong, stoic and self-reliant; showing emotion is a sign of weakness, as is asking for help. Further, men are underserved by our traditional health and social service sectors. Men are dying in alarming numbers, all around us, alone. How can we change this reality?
May 18, 2021
Coping with Stress, Anxiety and Substance Use During COVID-19
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have all experienced varying degrees of normal reactions to an abnormal event. In times of high anxiety and stress, it's more important than ever to safeguard your mental wellness.
May 5, 2021
Mental Health Week
The IBB knows all too well the importance of good mental health for its members and family. Let’s stay connected, keep talking and continue to support each other. For more information and recourse tools we encourage you to check out the CMHA webpage.
For anyone seeking help or assistance please feel free to reach out to our Member Assistance Program (FSEAP).
April 28, 2021
Driving mental health advocacy through education
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) free online education is aimed at building awareness and knowledge of mental health challenges and at reducing stigma.
Learn more: https://moodle8.camhx.ca/moodle/
April 27, 2021
MyGrief.ca
An online resource to help people work through their grief from the comfort of their own home, at their own pace. It was developed by family members who've "been there," and grief experts to complement existing community resources and help address the lack of grief services particularly in rural and remote areas. Visit the site at https://mygrief.ca/.
April 20, 2021
Tips on talking to someone in crisis during COVID-19
The current COVID-19 pandemic is a source of anxiety for people across the country and your colleagues, friends or family may reach out to you for support. How should you respond? The Mental Health Commission of Canada has provided active listening tips to navigate these sensitive conversations with more confidence.
April 9, 2021
Feeling low, stressed or anxious?
BounceBack® is a free program from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry. Working with workbooks and a trained coach to guide you and encourage you to reflect, BounceBack® can help you build skills to improve your mental health.
Learn more: https://bounceback.cmha.ca/welcome/
March 18, 2021
Infographic: Suicide in Canada
January 26, 2021
Self Care and Supporting Others
Now more than ever it is important to practice self-care to maintain our mental health. Additionally, by listening we can support others in need of assistance.
December 14, 2020
Mental health is a journey, not a destination.
In addition to regional and national FSEAP member assistance programs, members can access support and track their progress 24/7 with no fees through Wellness Together Canada. To learn more: https://ca.portal.gs/?lang=en-ca
Where to get help:
- Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 (Phone) | 45645 (Text, 4 p.m. to midnight ET only) crisisservicescanada.ca
- In Quebec (French): Association québécoise de prévention du suicide: 1-866-APPELLE (1-866-277-3553)
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (Phone), Live Chat counselling at www.kidshelpphone.ca
- Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre
- FSEAP Member Assistance Program:
November 27, 2020
Free mental health in the workplace training from Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
Did you know that about one in five Canadians experience mental health issues at some point during their working years? Mental health is on everyone’s mind right now as we navigate through COVID-19. The Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety offers e-courses on various Health and Safety topics, including Mental Health awareness and prevention. To support workplaces during the COVID-19 pandemic, CCOHS has made these courses free of charge until December 31, 2020. For more information, visit:
https://www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/mh_awareness/
October 7, 2020
Movember Conversations
Movember Conversations uses simple steps to help navigate a conversation about mental health. There may be men in your life who are struggling. Put the acronym A.L.E.C. to use with these helpful hints at https://ca.movember.com/mens-health/mental-health.
Whether you can offer support or need to get support. Strengthening our social connection through family, friends, and co-workers will benefit us all.
September 21, 2020
Cultivating Resilience in the Wake of COVID-19
While there’s much talk about a potential echo pandemic of mental illness following COVID-19, such a result is not inevitable. We can all cultivate resiliency by focusing on the actions and attitudes that strengthen our mental health.
To learn more, click on the image below to view a poster (PDF) from the Mental Health Commission of Canada:
September 10, 2020
World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), on 10 September, is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and co-sponsored by the World Health Organization. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness around the world of the tragic toll suicide takes on individuals, families, communities and that suicide can be prevented. For educational resources and counselling support, contact the Boilermaker member assistance program:
Additional resources: Wellness Together Canada
If you know of someone who needs immediate help, call 9-1-1.
August 27, 2020
How to Manage Return Anxiety as the Lockdown Lifts
As the COVID-19 curve flattens and the country begins to re-open, many people are facing a new set of concerns, sometimes called return or re-entry anxiety. The sources for this anxiety include worry about a heightened risk of infection, new social expectations, and the adjustment of routines to new work realities.
To learn more, click on the image below to view a poster (PDF) from the Mental Health Commission of Canada:
July 30, 2020
Mental Health Videos
These short videos will provide insight on how to assist and recognize when stressful situations arise that can affect your mental health. Everything needs maintenance even your mental health. Life is better when everything is running smoothly.
http://thinkmentalhealth.ca/watch-videos/
July 21, 2020
COVID-19 Self-Assessments
Below are two anonymous online screening tools provided to help identify symptoms of COVID-19-related stress and general distress. These tools are intended to educate and are not designed to provide a clinical diagnosis.
July 15, 2020
Tips on talking to someone in crisis during COVID-19
Here are some tips on how to communicate and assist people suffering from a mental health condition. During these uncertain times, many people find themselves seeking someone to reach out to for support. You may be that individual and reading this will provide valuable insight.
Tips on talking to someone in crisis during COVID-19 (PDF)
July 9, 2020
Tips for Managing COVID-19 Anxiety
The COVID-19 pandemic has created disruptions in our lives that can cause feelings of stress and anxiety. These feelings are normal. These tips can help you manage those feelings.
June 22, 2020
Managing COVID-19 Financial Stress
If you’re feeling stressed or anxious about finances right now, you’re not alone. From precarious employment to hard-hit investments to fears about the global economy, very few are immune to the new financial reality ushered in by COVID-19. Click the link below for some practical advice.
Managing COVID-19 Financial Stress (PDF)
May 28, 2020
Mental Health Video Series
A series of videos on mental health by Dr. Bill Howatt will assist in keeping the pandemic in perspective. Look at the titles and choose the ones which will help you manage your mental health. Reach out to the more vulnerable people in your life. BE KIND. STAY SAFE. STAY HEALTHY.
Click to view the videos: Mental health and COVID-19
May 21, 2020
Bounce Back
BOUNCEBACK is a series of videos designed to help manage mood, depression, anxiety, stress, and worry. Choose to watch one or all of the videos. Reclaim Your Health. Help keep everyone strong healthy and safe.
To view these videos:
1. Visit https://bouncebackvideo.ca
2. Sign in with your email address and the login code bbtodaybc
May 8, 2020
Who do I choose to be during the COVID-19?
Staying in the moment can result in a much healthier perspective regarding Covid-19. How you gather and react to media sources can impact how you feel. Stay well.
Who do I choose to be during the COVID-19? (PDF)
April 29, 2020
Wellness Together Canada
Due to COVID-19, many people are concerned about their physical and mental wellbeing. Canadians are being challenged in a number of ways because of isolation, financial and employment uncertainty and disruptions to daily life. Wellness Together Canada provides free tools and resources to help get Canadians back on track. These include modules for addressing low mood, worry, substance use, social isolation and relationship issues.
To learn more: https://ca.portal.gs
April 22, 2020
10 Ways to Cope with Anxiety about Coronavirus (COVID-19)
During times of uncertainty, you may notice an increase in anxiety. Here are some things you can do to help yourself cope. The University of Victoria suggests these science-based strategies.
10 Ways to Cope with Anxiety about Coronavirus (COVID-19) (PDF)
April 16, 2020
Deal with problems in a structured way
All the issues you might need to address during this pandemic situation may feel overwhelming. It can be useful to identify which things are problems that need to be solved or addressed, and which are just worries that are not necessarily grounded in reality. See the file below from The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) for some steps you can take to resolve issues that come up for you.
Dealing with problems in a structured way (PDF)
April 9, 2020
Mental Health Continuum Video
Mental Health we all have it. See how it can affect you both positively and negatively. Watch this 3-minute video and see what you can do to make yourself the best you can be. Please share it with your fellow brothers and sisters. In times like these, we need to think of our most vulnerable members. Keeping in contact goes a long way to prevent isolation.
March 31, 2020
Self-care & Resilience
With the added stress of the current COVID-19 situation, we want to ensure you remain healthy. Please view the following to complete a self-assessment on your mental health. The guide is for anyone in your family. If for some reason you feel in need of assistance. There is always someone to assist. The FSEAP program, a friend or family member. IT’S OK NOT TO BE OK. Just ask for assistance and call 1-866-990-1113. The Boilermakers are only as healthy as our members. You are part of our team and we want everyone to be at their best.
Self-care & Resilience Guide (PDF)
March 23, 2020
Choosing sources of information carefully is critical to COVID-19 mental well-being says Mental Health Commission of Canada
In the midst of COVID-19, it is increasingly difficult to avoid the bleak headlines and bright-red news banners. Staying informed is, after all, one way many of us try to win back a semblance of control. But while it's natural to seek information about this unfolding public health crisis, we must also take steps to protect our mental health. Click here to learn how you can protect your mental health.
For additional resources and Employee Assistance Program contact information, see: Member Assistance Programs
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Stronger Minds by Beacon is a free digital program for all covered Boilermakers to support their mental well-being through the COVID-19 crisis. Learn more: https://www.mindbeacon.com/strongerminds
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