Checking-in on your mental health
A list of mental health and wellness supports for faculty and staff
Have you checked-in on your mental health lately? Here is your reminder to do so.
Many of us are feeling a lot as we transition back to in-person work, as the number of people on campus increases and the provincial restrictions are loosened.
“There can be such a mix of feelings – uncertainty, stress, worry, excitement, relief and more,” says Arlana Vadnais, Employee Wellness Specialist and Mental Health Facilitator.
“These are all very normal responses during times of transition, and is added to the concern we may feel as we watch current world events unfold.”
It is important to check in with ourselves and with those around us in regard to mental health. Take time to focus on things that help us maintain our well-being, and access supports and resources if our usual coping strategies don’t seem to be enough.
A list of health and wellness resources for faculty and staff:
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Employees and their immediate family members have access to free and confidential services, including personal, group and crisis counselling, tools to manage stress and a variety of wellness resources.
For immediate confidential assistance for any concern and to manage your services, please visit the Morneau Shepell website (www.workhealthlife.com) or call their toll-free telephone number 24/7/365.
English 1-800-387-4765
French 1-800-361-5676
Wellness Together Canada
In response to the unprecedented rise in mental health distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada has introduced Wellness Together Canada (WTC), an online, confidential wellness service to support Canadians on their mental health and wellness journey
Based on a Stepped Care model that provides support at different levels or steps, WTC allows individuals to make decisions about the care they require and choose from a multitude of 24/7 services, such as immediate crisis support, self-assessment tools, educational resources, peer-to-peer support and counselling support by phone, text or live chat.
BeingWell
UM’s BeingWell portal offers a wealth of resources to navigate your path to wellbeing. Explore topics such as mental health, financial literacy, sleep improvement, nutrition, physical activity and more.
The Klinic Crisis Line
The Klinic Crisis Program operates a variety of crisis phone lines and online support services, providing free and confidential counselling, support and referrals for people who are suicidal, in crisis or struggling to cope. The Klinic Crisis Line is free and available 24/7 at 204-786-8686 or 1-888-322-3019.
Sexual violence supports
The Sexual Violence Resource Centre provides support, resources, information and referral services for any student, faculty or staff member who has been affected by sexual violence. Call 204-474-6562 or email svrc@umanitoba.ca.
For immediate, 24/7 sexual assault crisis support, the Klinic Sexual Assault Crisis line is available at 204-786-8631 or 1-888-292-7565.
Academics At Risk Program
Did you know the university has a dedicated professional to provide advice and consultation for faculty members about mental health and well-being? Contact Harold Wallbridge, Director, Psychological Service Centre, 204-474-9069 or harold.wallbridge@umanitoba.ca.
Additional crisis supports
Visit the UM Intranet crisis and supports page to find more resources and options available to employees in times of crisis or distress.
Learning and Organizational Development (LOD)
Among the many learning opportunities this spring, LOD is offering workshops on conflict, crucial conversations, emotional and social intelligence and building cultural capacity.
Recreation Services
Recreation Services will help you stay active and keep moving, which is beneficial for your physical and mental health. A diverse catalogue of programs and services are being offered in-person at the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. You can also checkout some useful tips and online options on their virtual health and fitness page.
Want to learn more about the UM’s commitment to mental health and well-being?
Success through Wellness: The University of Manitoba’s Campus Mental Health Strategy was
launched in 2014. It supports and promotes mental health and well-being and encompasses students, staff and faculty in fulfillment of the UM’s strategic priority of providing an outstanding working and learning environment and promoting the wellbeing of all our community members. Success Through Wellness focuses on building a community that is committed, caring, healthy, responsive, supportive and resourceful. It includes 67 recommendations that fall under six goal areas.
If you are a manager who is concerned about an employee, you can connect with your HR Consultant or Employee Wellness for guidance and resources.
If you have questions about sick leave benefits or if you are in need of accommodation related to a medical condition, Employee Wellness can provide information and wellness resources.
For general feedback and inquiries, contact hrfeedback@umanitoba.ca.