This interactive session will focus on how employers can improve their response to the specific challenges raised by workplace mental illness and stigma. Participants will be given the opportunity to consider case studies and data collected through surveys, as well as work in breakout groups. Much of this session is based on the research findings of a whitepaper co-authored by Jason Finucan, which was published in the Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences and focuses on the ROI of reducing mental illness stigma in the workplace. (Visit https://stigmazero.com/whitepaper/ to review the executive summary or full version of the whitepaper.)
The work environment created by leadership, human resources professionals and employees has a powerful influence over how well – or how poorly – workplace mental illness challenges are handled. By addressing the issue of mental illness stigma in the workplace head-on, and by providing a comprehensive understanding of mental illnesses in general, this session will provide tools to reduce the challenges caused by employees either hiding a mental illness or discriminating against others who fall ill.
This session, which offers some of the content found in StigmaZero’s online training programs, also includes an exploration of the role both empathy and emotional intelligence (EI) play in the battle against mental illness stigma in the workplace. Often-overlooked, EI is a vital skill for employees and managers to develop – and unlike IQ, EI can be improved.
In addition to his expertise regarding workplace mental illness and stigma, Jason Finucan will bring considerable personal experience to this session. Jason has had the unique experience of being diagnosed with both a major physical illness (heart defect leading to open-heart surgery) and a mental illness (bipolar disorder). It was in comparing the two experiences, both personally and professionally, that he realized the destructive power of stigma - which is very prevalent with respect to mental illness and yet non-existent with other, more known illnesses.
As an expert storyteller and professional speaker, Jason shares his impactful personal experiences in a way that leaves attendees with a new, positive and empowered understanding of mental illness and stigma.
Learning Objectives:
1) Mental health/illness literacy (including understanding stigma and how to eradicate it); personal growth (empathy and EQ); and appropriate action and response to mental illness;
2) Promotion of psychologically safe workplaces, as well as appropriate action and response to mental illness as a manager;
3) The sustainable development of policies and procedures that eliminate structural stigma and ensure a cohesive, company-wide approach to this challenge.
Usable tools provided: Case studies; sample policies; guidelines for internal communications
Agenda:
8:30 a.m. - Event Start
10:00 a.m. - 10-minute break
12:00 p.m. - Event Wrap Up
Registration ends September 21, 2021 8AM
Learning & Giving back! As suggested by HRPA members and as part of our commitment to corporate social responsibility, HRPA has identified Indspire and Black Youth Helpline as recommended charities. Should you wish to support please select the $5 donation option upon checkout. Thank you!
Registration Difficulties or Questions? Please reach out to our Chapter Experience Coordinator, Rebecca Lauzon rlauzon@hrpa.ca