Workplaces across Ontario are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health. Initiatives like wellness weeks, flexible schedules and mental health days have become more common. However, these measures often fall short of creating environments where employees feel genuinely safe to discuss their mental health challenges.
Mental Health Works, a social enterprise of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Division, addresses this issue by providing workplace mental health training to organizations in many sectors across the province. Their approach is person-centered, evidence-based and solutions-focused, aiming to build capacity within organizations to effectively address mental health in the workplace.
“When we go into an organization to deliver mental health training, a few amazing things tend to happen,” says Barbara Matzner, a Mental Health Works Trainer and Facilitator. “People feel seen. We notice the wide eyes, the head nods, the ‘That’s exactly how I’ve been feeling’ moments. There’s a collective realization that no one is alone—that we all have mental health, and we all move between wellness and struggle. That needing support is part of being human. And with that comes the first sparks of self-compassion.
“We also see hope. Participants leave with tools that feel practical and doable—strategies they can start using right away to feel a little better. They gain a clearer understanding of how to ask for help, and why it’s okay to do so.”
And the best part? Barbara says it’s getting to witness the early signs of real cultural change. As the idea that what’s good for people is good for business starts to land, things begin to shift. Mental health becomes something people actually talk about. Leaders start asking better questions. And the workplace becomes just a little more human.
“It gives you a lot of hope.”
One of Mental Health Works’ key offerings is the Psychological Health and Safety Professional Certificate Training. This comprehensive program equips individuals with the practical expertise required to implement the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. Participants learn to assess and analyze psychological health and safety, develop a personalized implementation plan that aligns with their organization’s goals, and how to measure their plan and keep it going over time.
At CMHA Ontario, we get an inside look at the tangible impact of these programs. Organizations that engage with Mental Health Works often report a shift in workplace culture, where open and honest conversations about mental health become more normalized and supported.
“We’ve seen how implementing structured mental health educational programs leads to happier, safer, and more inclusive workplaces,” says Ambica Jones, Deputy Chief of Programs. “Staff and leaders gain a better understanding of what mental health and well-being is and learn how to be more compassionate and supportive with those experiencing mental health challenges. This includes providing workplace accommodations for those who need it and using language that is non-stigmatizing to others.”
Mental health does not stop at the workplace door. It’s imperative that organizations move beyond surface-level initiatives and invest in comprehensive programs that foster genuine psychological health and safety.
Upcoming Psychological Health and Safety Training Dates
June (in-person): Wed Jun 11- Thu Jun 12 (9am-5pm EDT)
July (virtual): Mon Jul 14-Thu Jul 17 (9:30am-1pm EDT)
For any questions or to sign up for workshops and PH&S training, feel free to message the Mental Health Works Team at: mhworksteam@ontario.cmha.ca, and learn more at mentalhealthworks.ca
Need support?
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or substance use:
- Call or text 9-8-8if you’re in crisis
- In an emergency, call 9-1-1
- Connect with your local CMHA Ontario branch
- Call ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600for 24/7 support.
You’re not alone. Help is always available.