CWHP-A Reflections: Unit WWC00

Reflecting on our first unit, I am struck by the essential role psychological health and safety plays in an organization's overall long-term success. This foundation is integral for the success of both our organization and every individual employee. From a business perspective, there is compelling evidence that integrating workplace wellness leads to clear outcomes and benefits that positively support the organization.

Taking a more human-centered approach, workplace wellness extends beyond just productivity and organizational success; it focuses on doing what is right for our employees. While happy and healthy employees contribute to reduced absenteeism and presenteeism, increased productivity, greater creativity, and higher engagement, I feel that we must strive for their well-being regardless of outcomes hitched upon financial and productivity impact. Ideally, I would love for organizations to prioritize the happiness and health of their employees, valuing their well-being beyond mere data and metrics. However, I do understand that in our current societal state, we still need to provide evidence to management/leadership of key outcomes that will support the overall organization.

The commitment to workplace wellness can start on a smaller level, with companies aiming to positively impact their workplaces. Such dedication has the potential to create a ripple effect that transforms workplace culture across Canada. Currently, the Psychological Health and Safety Standard is optional and pioneering in its field, but I envision a future where it becomes as mandatory as Occupational Health and Safety regulations. At that point, promoting workplace wellness will no longer require justification to management and key stakeholders; it will simply be standard practice.

In our agency, I feel that we are already making meaningful strides. We have gained support and are progressively integrating psychological health and safety and workplace wellness into our policies and procedures. We will continue to showcase the positive outcomes associated with these initiatives and advocate for their significance. The next crucial step is to establish a wellness committee that genuinely represents our entire organization and captures the voices of all employees in matters pertaining to their psychological health and well-being. The committee, comprising of PH&S champions and supporters, can help drive key initiatives forward and hold the organization (and each other) accountable to continue to work towards our wellness and PH&S goals.