Health and Safety and Mental Health Week

grateful journal

Each year, workplaces across Canada recognizes Safety and Health Week (May 4–9) and Mental Health Week (May 4–10), which highlight how closely physical safety, mental health, and everyday work habits are connected.

Well-being at work is not one single action. It is built through small, steady habits such as taking breaks, staying aware of our environment, and checking in with ourselves throughout the day. These simple moments can support both safety and mental health in meaningful ways.

Small Wellness & Safety Activities to try this week:

1.   Monday – Hydrate and check in with yourself

Mondays can feel busy, so start gently. Try to stay hydrated throughout the day. Water supports energy, focus, and helps reduce fatigue that can make it harder to stay alert. Take a moment to check in with yourself as you begin the week. Noticing how you are feeling physically and mentally can help you pace your energy and approach the day with more balance.

2.   Tuesday – Get to know the Health, Safety and Wellness Page

Take a few minutes to explore the Mohawk College Employee Health, Safety and Wellness Page -Health, Safety and Wellness Page. Check out the digital Health and Safety Board, review standard operating procedures, access our Employee and Family Assistance Program, learn how to report hazards and incidents, and more. Knowing where to find information ahead of time can make it easier to respond in the moment. If you have any questions, email our team at OHSMohawk@mohawkcollege.ca

3.   Wednesday – Gratitude and awareness

Write down 3 to 5 things you are grateful for. Gratitude can support mood and resilience by helping shift attention toward positive moments. Then take a moment to notice 3 to 5 potential hazards or improvement areas in your workspace or home. This builds awareness and supports prevention.

4.   Thursday – Microbreaks

Take microbreaks throughout the workday. Microbreaks are brief pauses, typically lasting 30 seconds to a few minutes, that allow both the mind and body to reset. They may include standing, stretching, taking a short walk, or briefly looking away from the screen. Brief interaction with a colleague can also serve as a microbreak. Even short, informal conversations can support connection and help reduce feelings of isolation in the workplace.

5.   Friday – Share and reflect

Share a wellness or safety tip with your team or check in with a colleague. Before the week ends, reflect on anything you noticed that could improve safety or well-being and bring it forward if needed.

Health and safety week is more than a celebration—it's a reminder of the daily commitment we all make to protect ourselves and one another. Whether you take five minutes to reflect or join in team events, every action counts.

Resources:

Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential support and resources for mental health, stress management, and overall wellness: Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Homewood Health.

Access resources without registering

• Step One: Visit www.homeweb.ca and click ‘sign in”
• Step Two: Enter email: MohawkCollege@Efap.com, Password: MohawkEFAP#1

Register for a private account (optional)

• Step One: Visit www.homeweb.ca and click ‘Register’.
• Step Two: Type your company name and click ‘Find it!’ Select the correct company from the list provided. Enter information into the required fields, Invitation Code for Mohawk College:  MC7480 choose an email and password and click ‘Next Step’.
• Step Three: Let us know your relationship to the organization (e.g. employee, spouse, dependent, etc.) and click ‘Next Step’
• Step Four: Enter the Necessary Information and click ‘Create a Homeweb Account’.

Phone: Employees, and their immediate family, may call Homewood Health at 1-800-663-1142, anytime 365 days of the year.

Resource for approaching someone who may be struggling and other mental health supports (PDF)

May Health & Wellness Awareness Calendar