People working in British Columbia’s forestry sector will now have access to mental health services.
Workers have faced obstacles in recent years including mill curtailments and closures, workforce reductions, and ongoing economic uncertainty.
This can contribute to increased stress and feelings of uncertainty manifesting into mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety.
In response to this growing need, the BC Forest Safety Council (BCFSC) in partnership with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and the BC Municipal Safety Association have introduced ‘Connection to Care’.
It’s a free, anonymous and confidential mental health call-in program available to all forestry workers in BC.
This May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) wanted to recognize the importance of initiatives like this one that prioritize workers’ mental health and wellbeing.
“As someone who has experienced recurring depression, I understand the importance of creating space for open and honest conversations,” said Jason Fisher, Executive Director, FESBC.
The goal is to provide personalized support to forestry workers covering a range of topics including job uncertainty, family pressures, or simply not feeling like themselves.
Regardless of whether you have company health insurance coverage, access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program, or a dedicated health professional you will be able to access it.
“When workers feel supported, workplaces become safer, families become stronger and communities become more resilient, and sometimes a simple phone call may be all it takes,” said Michele Fry, Communications Director, BCFSC.
For more information, visit www.connectiontocare.ca
Comments