2026 Day of Mourning President’s Speech
Day of Mourning Speech
When we ask someone, “How are you?” the usual response to that question is “I’m fine.” But when we ask, “How are you, really?” That may prompt someone to begin a real conversation about the issues regarding their mental health and well-being.
Today, April 28th, is about remembering those we have lost and honouring those whose lives were forever changed by workplace injury and illness. However, it is also about the responsibility we owe to today’s workers. And in our complicated, stressful, and progressive world, that includes mental health.
Statistics indicate that approximately 20 percent of Canadians experience mental health problems in any given year. The causes of mental health issues can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as genetics, brain chemistry, trauma, abuse, life events, social pressures, economics, and illness, among others. Most mental health illnesses usually arise from a mix of these factors, rather than a single cause. They can accumulate, and they play a significant role in mental health. Most adults have experienced some form of mental stress, either of their own or a loved one’s. This may include depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, economic difficulties, alcoholism, drug addiction, and even suicide. These are only a few factors that can influence our mental health. In addition, people may struggle with illnesses such as personality disorders, eating disorders, clinical depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. Many of these issues and illnesses may require medical and/or psychological intervention, but sometimes all that is needed is someone to listen, to notice, to help, a moment to breathe, and to be acknowledged.
In the workplace, mental health issues are being overlooked or ignored, and they have been for decades. It’s time for that to change. Approximately half a million Canadians miss work due to mental health issues. Workplace injuries are not just physical. Thirty percent of all disability claims are related to mental health. While stress, burnout, harassment, and violence are the most common, other issues, such as high workloads, lack of support, and bullying, are prevalent. When these factors are not managed effectively, they can lead to symptoms such as stress, fatigue, and depression, which can lead to physically health issues and workplace accidents. In addition to workplace issues, stress from home and illness can exasperate the problems. People are going to work tired, anxious, worried, and exhausted, which can lead to an increase in absenteeism, mistakes, and accidents at work. It is essential to recognize these harms and take proactive steps to prevent them, ensuring a healthier and more supportive work environment.
What can we do to help our co-workers who might be showing signs of mental health issues? We can check in on our co-workers. Ask how they are doing and what we can do to help. We can listen, share our time, and help them complete work when we can. Basically, be a friend. Between today’s fast-paced world and social media, we spend less time with the people that matter. During our breaks, put the devices down and have a conversation. Our coworker may be struggling and keeping it secret, either due to embarrassment or not wanting to “bother” anyone. Let them know they are not in this alone. Provide them with a safe space to talk. Start the conversation.
Employers have many ways in which they can help create a mentally healthy and safe workplace for employees. They can build a supportive work environment that promotes mental well-being with benefits for everyone, such as counselling, developing peer activities, and providing outside resources. They can keep the workplace safe by ensuring safety protocols are a priority, providing adequate breaks and environments and discouraging inappropriate behavior. Having a mental health program in place promotes better engagement, morale, job satisfaction, and productivity. It also reduces absenteeism, health costs, medical leave, disability, and workplace injuries. Companies need to be encouraged to put in place programs that not only benefit the mental wellness of their employees, but also help the companies to be more productive and a place where people want to work. Every worker deserves to come home safe at the end of the day – safe in body and in mind.
One day this week, I challenge you to take a few minutes to ask a fellow employee, “How are you, really? Tell me how your day is going?” and then listen, really listen. You may be surprised how much lighter your day becomes. You connected; you made a difference.
Working together, Canada’s unions will continue to fight for workplaces that are truly safe, healthy, and respectful for all
