In recognition of Mental Health Week, Canadian unions are urging the new federal government to improve healthcare services for workers and their families, with a particular focus on mental health care.
Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), stated, “Only by investing in existing healthcare infrastructure can we improve mental health support in Canada. However, our healthcare system is struggling. Rebuilding the public healthcare system that we hold dear must be a priority, and it must include investment in mental health care for all Canadians.”
Mental health remains a major issue for workers in Canada. According to a 2024 survey by the Canadian Mental Health Association, at least 500,000 Canadians miss work every week due to mental health issues, leading to an estimated economic loss of $51 billion annually.
Healthcare workers themselves are facing significant challenges, including poor working conditions, stagnant wages, and a shocking increase in workplace violence and harassment.
“For years, workers and their families have been warning that Canada’s healthcare system urgently needs strong investment. Our country deserves a commitment and concrete solutions from the new federal leadership, with involvement from all levels of government, employers, and workers to ultimately resolve Canada’s healthcare issues,” added Siobhán Vipond, Executive Vice-President of the CLC.
During the recent elections, several political parties made specific promises aimed at improving the healthcare system and the working conditions of healthcare workers, including better mental health support for first responders. The Canadian Mental Health Commission welcomed these promises and urged the newly elected government to act on them. The Commission also reiterated its call for the federal government to introduce the Canadian National Mental Health and Substance Abuse Act, establish actionable national standards, and create dedicated healthcare transfer mechanisms to support meaningful investment and infrastructure development in the field.
“Mental health is crucial for everyone, everywhere, including in the workplace. Canadian unions look forward to working with the new government to rebuild our healthcare system and ensure that everyone across the country has access to the mental health care they need,” said Lily Chang, Secretary-Treasurer of the CLC.
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