Post Event | Engagement Forum: Talking about mental health

Yesterday morning, the Calgary Chamber hosted an insightful Engagement Forum centered around the crucial topic of mental health in the workplace. The event, sponsored by our Mental Health Pillar Partner Cenovus Energy, aimed to foster open dialogue and provide practical strategies for fostering a mentally healthy work environment. With Calgary Chamber President and CEO Deborah Yedlin as moderator, she was joined by Robbie Babins-Wagner from the Calgary Counselling Centre, Leora Hornstein from Cenovus Energy, Tiffany Petite from Virtuous Circle Counselling and Kerilee Snatenchuk from ATB Financial for a panel discussion.

When talking about mental health in the workplace, the panelists emphasized the significance of fostering open communication channels between leaders and employees. They underscored that discussions around performance and benefits should include considerations for employees' mental health. By prioritizing transparency and support, organizations can create a culture where mental well-being is valued as much as productivity. With economic implications of neglecting mental health in the workplace increasingly present in our society, the panel highlighted the substantial financial losses attributable to poor mental health, including absenteeism and other health-related concerns. Recognizing mental health as an integral aspect of business strategy can lead to improved productivity and reduced healthcare costs.

A key theme in the discussion around mental health in the workplace also included finding the equilibrium between performance-related discussions and mental health support. Panelists stressed the importance of integrating empathy into managerial practices and fostering a culture of understanding and support where individuals feel seen, heard and valued. Open communication was identified as a crucial tool for navigating this balance effectively.

The topic of self care was also touched upon, including practical strategies for self-compassion and the importance of extending the same level of care to oneself as one would to friends and family. Recognizing the need for self-care and setting boundaries as essential practices for maintaining mental wellness, panelists spoke about not underestimating the transformative impact of engaging in enjoyable activities for day-to-day wellness. Suggestions ranged from activities like bike riding and reading to mindfulness practices such as meditation. Encouraging employees to prioritize activities that bring them joy can contribute significantly to their overall well-being.

Yesterday’s panel conversation provided valuable insights into the critical importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace. By fostering open communication, cultivating empathy and implementing practical strategies for self-care, organizations can create environments where employees thrive both personally and professionally.

A special thanks to our presenting sponsor and Mental Health Pillar Partner Cenovus Energy for their support in facilitating this important conversation, to the student table sponsor Lawson Collab and venue sponsors the Wilder Institute and the Calgary Zoo.