Alberta: Thriving Workplaces - Mental Health for Teams

Alberta has a reputation for a strong work ethic and long hours, which can contribute to burnout and stress.

Alberta's economy is heavily reliant on the oil and gas industry, which experiences booms and busts. Studies have shown a correlation between economic downturns and increased rates of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

Shift work can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to mental health challenges. It's particularly relevant in Alberta with a significant resource extraction sector.

Mental health concerns might be more prevalent in certain industries, such as construction or healthcare, where the work can be physically or emotionally demanding.

According to the University of Calgary, a 1% increase in unemployment in Alberta leads to a 2.8% increase in the province's suicide rate. This highlights the impact of economic uncertainty on mental wellbeing.

There can still be a stigma surrounding mental health issues in some workplaces, making employees hesitant to seek help.

Access to mental health professionals can be limited in some rural areas of Alberta, further hindering employee support.

There's a growing awareness of the importance of mental health in the workplace, with more organizations implementing mental health initiatives. In Alberta, there’s a gradual shift towards a more supportive and understanding workplace culture regarding mental health.