The Vermilion Mental Health and Wellness Symposium is encouraging workplaces to put a stronger focus on employee wellbeing as June is Men’s Mental Health Month.
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) points out that men accounted for 75 per cent of all completed suicides in 2019, and suicide was the leading cause of death for young men in 2018.
Organizers say the month serves as a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health—especially in high-pressure and hands-on industries where stress can quietly build over time.
They note that everyone carries their own “stress bucket,” filled with work demands, personal responsibilities, fatigue and other pressures. While many manage silently, the group emphasizes that those pressures can eventually reach a breaking point if left unaddressed.
The organization is highlighting how simple actions in the workplace can make a meaningful difference, including checking in with coworkers, encouraging breaks, and maintaining open, judgment-free communication.
Also, creating a supportive environment should be an ongoing effort—not something limited to a single awareness week.
They add that regular conversations and early check-ins can play a key role in preventing burnout and helping individuals feel supported before challenges become overwhelming.
The CMHA advocates for greater awareness, education and accessible resources to combat the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.
