Daily life is full of challenges. Sometimes our mental health suffers as a result. But there are ways that our union can support members who are experiencing mental health injuries.
We can bargain language into our collective agreements and make sure members know and understand their rights to access:
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
- Other health benefits
- Sick leave and other leaves
- Short-term disability benefits
- Long-term disability benefits
Local union officers, stewards, and health and safety reps can learn about and share information with members about:
- The duty to accommodate
- Sick-leave benefits under Employment Insurance
- Canada Pension Plan disability benefits
- Provincial disability benefits
Local union officers, stewards, and health and safety reps can research what mental-health services are available in your area, and share that information with members, including:
- Community mental health clinics and other services
- Mental-health services available through hospitals
- Toll-free crisis and support lines
- Pastoral care options provided by faith organizations, including Indigenous spiritual care
Local union officers, stewards, and health and safety reps can become familiar with reliable websites, including:
- Canadian Labour Congress mental-health resources: https://canadianlabour.ca/uncategorized/mental-health-resources/#affiliates
- The Mental Injury Toolkit: https://www.ohcow.on.ca/mental-injury-toolkit/
- United Way mental-health resources: https://www.unitedwayeo.ca/categories/mental-health-and-addiction-supports/
Local union officers, stewards, and health and safety reps: you have the right to take care of your mental health, too! Helping others can be stressful. The healthier we are, the better we can support our members.
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