Experts in building resilience, workforce productivity, compassionate care and lived experience will headline Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Division’s upcoming workplace conference.
Roadmaps to Resiliency: Investing in Mental Wellness for Ontario’s Workplaces, set for May 13-14 at the Marriott Downtown at CF Toronto Eaton Centre, will focus on resiliency and how to build it and manage it in the workplace. The roster of keynote speakers includes trauma psychologist Dr. Jonathan Douglas, The Conference Board of Canada chief of research, workforce productivity Dr. Bill Howatt, mental health awareness non-profit The Brainstorm Revolution Troupe, and AGS Rehab Solutions president Addie Greco-Sanchez.
Since 2004, Douglas has been in full-time private practice in Barrie, where he has developed a focus on working with trauma-related disorders, particularly in veterans and first responders, but also in those traumatized by crime, in other fields of work, or in childhood. He will speak on preventing sanctuary trauma and building resiliency through compassionate care.
Howatt has over 25 years of experience in strategic human resources, mental health and addictions, and leadership. A published author and regular contributor to the Globe and Mail, he will provide insights on the relationship between resiliency and workforce productivity.
The Brainstorm Revolution Troupe has a mission to raise awareness, educate and increase understanding of mental health through storytelling of lived experiences. Presenters range from everyday folks with extraordinary stories, to city councillors, award-winning authors, comedians, TEDx presenters and members of the Order of Canada.
Greco-Sanchez is a recognized industry leader with over 25 years of experience in disability management and mental health. Based on the book she co-authored, The 5-Minute Recharge: 31 Proven Strategies to Refresh, Reset and Become the Boss of Your Day, she’ll demonstrate how as little as five minutes of self-care goes a long way in building resilience and decreasing absences related to stress and mental health challenges.
Hosted by Mental Health Works – a national social enterprise led by CMHA Ontario – this conference will bring together leaders, managers, employees, researchers and experts in the field to discuss emerging best-practices and practical, on-the-ground skills that will develop resiliency.