Today marks World Mental Health Day and this year’s focus is health in the workplace. Globally, more than 300 million people suffer from depression and More than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders. A recent World Health Organization study estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy US$ 1 trillion each year in lost productivity.
World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 every year. It’s overall objective is to raise awareness of mental health issues and to continue to mobilize efforts in support of better mental health.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted his governments commitment of 5 billion dollars over 10 years to mental health supports across the country. Budget 2017 also pledges over $200 million over the next five years to increase support for mental health services for Indigenous-led initiatives.
The Mental Health Commission of Canada says given that two-thirds of adults in Canada spend 60 per cent of their waking hours at work, the workplace is an ideal venue to advance this crucial conversation.