Algoma Steel recognized for making mental health a priority

NEWS RELEASE
CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION SAULT STE. MARIE
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On June 5, 2019, at CMHA Sault Ste. Marie’s annual general meeting, Algoma Steel Inc. will be recognized by the local branch.

We applaud Algoma Steel for recognizing that mental health is part of overall health and for providing employees with information and education as part of their health and safety training. Promoting mental health in the workplace is a priority to Algoma Steel.

“Mental health promotion is guided by a commitment to helping all people enjoy life, deal with challenges, improve emotional and spiritual wellbeing and build social connections. It builds cohesive communities and supports the cultivation of mentally healthy workplaces. If implemented effectively, evaluated regularly and sustained, mental health promotion has the potential to reduce mental illness and mental health expenditures,” says Lisa Carricato, mental health educator and training provider, CMHA Sault Ste. Marie.

Beginning this year, the new partnership provides each Algoma Steel employee with a two-hour mandatory mental health training session. Already close to 1,000 employees have already been trained, with a goal that all 3,000 will receive the training within the year.

This training has had overwhelmingly positive feedback from staff and managers alike.

Quote from staff participant, “Thank you for helping my co-workers understand the challenges I face most days.”

Annette Katajamaki, executive director CMHA Sault Ste. Marie states, “We hope to create a community in Sault Ste. Marie and in the District of Algoma that is welcoming, accepting and open to change – to become a mentally healthy place to live, work and play. When individuals, families, employees, and employers recognize the importance of mental health, everyone wins.” 

Algoma Steel Chief Executive Officer Mike McQuade adds, “Without compromise, Algoma Steel is committed to the health and safety of its employees. By working with CMHA we have been able to raise the level of understanding and acceptance across our workforce that mental health is just as important as physical health.”

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