Changing Mindsets on Mental Health — André Latreille
For World Mental Health Day, we interviewed public servants working to change mindsets on mental health in the workplace. Here are their stories. (version en français)
Why does the issue of mental health matter to you, personally?
Because I’ve lived it with family members. Very, very difficult period to go through and you don’t know exactly where to turn to for resources. I felt that as an organization even though we offer a lot of programs for our employees — maybe we could do a bit more in that area. Especially when the workplace makes you sick. Which is not supposed to happen but it does for many individuals.
What is the one thing you would recommend employees do to help create a psychologically healthy work environment?
Act respectfully. Act with civility.
Even if you don’t respect somebody — treat them respectfully. Start with that and anything can happen. Any issue can be discussed. Solutions can be found.
If we are at the bottom of a mountain and climbing — what do you hope to see at the summit?
People will be more at ease to talk about their situation and we will always support employees wanting to raise issues. Give them a venue where they can do so. The more we can give safe spaces for employees to raise issues, the more we will be able to actually get to the trenches of the organization and get to cultural and permanent changes.
For someone scared that voicing their own mental health will go on their employment record or cause them to lose their job — what would you say?
Using an ombudsman’s office — it doesn’t go on your record because everything is informal. So we don’t keep records of discussions that occur with employees. This is a place where you come to have no fear, no judgment and explore the options. Brainstorm. We can provide the right resources, tools and guidance for an employee to make the best decision that suits their situation.
What advice would you give seasoned executives?
I like to say we don’t put in the letter of offer: Dear Mrs. Engineer or Mr. Translator. You’re Nick, you’re Valentina. We’re hiring a human being. Let’s take care of that person. The deal is once we hire you, here’s what is expected of you, here are the tools at your disposal, we’re going to communicate, I’m going to give you feedback, I’m going to support you. That’s the deal.
What advice would you give managers?
Biggest mistake is lack of attention to planning and staffing. Here’s where we are going to be in four months. Eight months, 12 months. Define what needs to happen. Put it in a plan. Follow it. Be vigilant. Be clear and involve the staff.
Can you share a favorite thought you remind yourself of when things get difficult for you?
My father once told me: “You can’t fix the past. When you’re in a car you have this little mirror that is about six inches long. That’s what shows you the past. And you have this big windshield. That’s your future. That’s what’s coming your way. If you want to invest your time — invest in things you can change.”
Learn more about the Public Services and Procurement Canada Mental Health Ombudsman or call 1–844–278–1126.
