Canberra workers impacted by COVID-19 will now be able to access more mental health support through the ACT Government’s Mentally Healthier Workplaces initiative.

Minister for Employment and Workplace Safety, Suzanne Orr, today announced a suite of online resources that will help workers dealing with isolation, anxiety and general poor mental health during the COVID-19 health emergency and into the future

“The ACT Government is providing a package of online tools and resources for local businesses and their workers in response to the impact of COVID-19 on their mental health and wellbeing,” Minister Orr said.

“We know that the past few months have not been easy for our community and workplaces have had to move quickly to adapt to our new way of life. For many, this comes with an increased likelihood of work-related psychological harms, including mental fatigue and strain.

As part of the ACT Government’s Canberra Recovery Plan, a focus has been placed on community recovery and these measures will help provide a welcome boost to those struggling to return to ‘business as usual’.

“While the physical health risk of COVID-19 in workplaces remains present, the risk to our mental health and wellbeing also needs to be taken seriously. To reduce those risks, the Government is encouraging all businesses and employers to join the Mentally Healthier Workplaces initiative.”

Dr Elizabeth Moore, Co-ordinator General of the Office of Mental Health and Wellbeing said that looking after our own mental health, and the mental health of those around us, is especially important at this time.

“WorkSafe is providing some very useful tools for people in our business community to help do just that and I commend this initiative” she said.

To better support businesses and workers, WorkSafe ACT is delivering a range of online support services including:

• health and wellbeing webinars developed in collaboration with local peak bodies and leading not-for-profit providers
• an online, evidence-based program for local non-government workplaces, which aims to boost mental fitness and protect mental health
• an online suicide prevention training course for local non-government workplaces, particularly valuable for managers and leaders.

WorkSafe ACT is committed to providing local workplaces with ongoing support to help promote and protect the health and wellbeing of local businesses and their staff.

Businesses are also encouraged to take the Mentally Healthier Workplaces Pledge and incorporate these important supports into a 12-month action plan that will see workplaces recognised for their commitment to workplace mental health.

More information on the Healthier Work program and the Mentally Healthier Workplaces initiative is available on the Healthier Work website  

For tips and resources on how to look after your mental health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit The Office for Mental Health and Wellbeing website

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