Mental Health in the North

Living and working in the North provides unique opportunities that range from positive to challenging and everything in between. We have shaped our own identity, language, hobbies and interests based on the landscape that we inhabit. This extends beyond how we live our lives into the opportunities for employment and type of work that we do. Skilled Trades have shaped the social and economical contexts of the Canadian North historically and will continue to do so into the future.

People who work in the remote North experience particular challenges that are unknown to those who work in urban settings. These include:

·       Isolation

·       Time away from family and friends

·       Job stress/risk of physical injury

·       Financial and job security

·       Stigma of mental health

·       Relationship strain

·       Limited access to resources

·       Harsh working conditions

·       Substance use

The emergence of understanding that mental and physical health and safety are not only linked but cannot be considered as separate entities has propelled the need for training and skill development in mental health to be an integrated part of safe and healthy workplaces. This includes training for people who work in the trades.

Mental Health in the North is a workshop designed to educate, raise awareness and reduce stigma for people who live and work in the North. This initiative was started in collaboration with the Ontario Iron Workers Local 759 and Koru Training and Consultation. As a resident of Northern Ontario, with experience working in Northern remote communities to deliver and develop mental health programming, I am committed to fostering improved mental health for those who live and work in the North.