Breaking the stigma around men’s health during “Movember”!
Dear colleagues and friends,
With November, comes shorter days and cooler temperatures. It’s a good time to take care of ourselves and brighten our days with activities that support our well-being. This month, we invite you to explore the activities and tools that align with your needs.
On the agenda:
- This month, we shine a light on Movember. More than just facial hair, Movember is a global movement that raises awareness about men’s physical and mental health. It is an opportunity to speak openly about health issues affecting men and to encourage simple actions that can have a positive impact, such as seeking help from a health professional or connecting with a loved one. To learn more and to access helpful resources, please visit the men’s physical and mental health section of ECCC’s Mental Health and Wellness Centre.
- November is also Indigenous Disability Awareness Month. It’s an opportunity to recognize the achievements of Indigenous persons with disabilities and their important social, economic, and cultural contributions to Canada. We encourage you to take a moment to learn more about this reality and explore ways to foster an inclusive and accessible workplace for everyone.
- National Addictions Awareness Week runs from November 16 to 22. This week highlights solutions that help address the harm of excessive substance use. It provides an opportunity for people to learn about prevention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and solutions for change. To deepen your understanding, please visit the Substance Use section of ECCC’s Mental Health and Wellness Centre.
- November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Did you know that, according to the UN Women website, globally, almost one in three women have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both, at least once in their life? If this affects you or someone you care about, please consult the resources available on ECCC’s Mental Health and Wellness Centre.
SOS domestic violence offers 24/7 support at 1-800-363-9010. Crisis lines and services are also available in every province and territory. You can also check out the page 8 ways to help a victim of intimate partner violence.
Don’t forget that the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is also available for short-term psychological support. Call the toll-free line at 1-800-268-7708 (TTY: 1-800-567-5803), available 24/7.
What’s new?
- LifeSpeak invites you to continue exploring its Mental Health and Resilience campaign with a new focus on Digital Well-being in the Age of Constant Connectivity. Discover practical resources to help you maintain balance and set healthy boundaries.
- Torchlight offers a series of resources under the theme Take a Break: Integrate Well-being into Your Routine. Whether you’re a parent or a caregiver, you’ll find practical tools to care for yourself, reduce stress, and recharge.
We encourage you to take part in this month’s initiatives and make the most of the programs available to support your well-being. ECCC’s Mental Health and Wellness Centre offers a wide range of resources to support you, including this month’s events.
Thank you for your continued support and for helping create a healthy workplace.
Stay safe, stay well!
Respectfully,
Waheed Khan
President, National Consultation Team