Mental Health Week in Canada is a reminder for all of us to prioritize mental well-being. This is often overlooked in high-pressure, physically demanding fields like the skilled trades. For union job workers, mental health challenges can be especially difficult to address, but it’s important to remember that mental illness is treatable, and recovery rates are high for those who get help early. Recognizing when you need mental health help is the first step to feeling better and living your best life.
As a union, we’re committed to supporting our members and their families with mental health resources. Whether you’re struggling personally or helping a loved one, our union jobs benefits provide flexible options for care.
Existing Benefits for Mental Health Support
Our union job workers’ benefits plan offers a wide range of services to support your mental health:
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Psychanalyst and Social Worker: Coverage for licensed professionals up to the reasonable and customary fees per visit, with a $1,500 combined calendar year maximum per insured plan member.
- Member and Family Assistance Program (LifeJourney): Virtual personalized guidance and treatment plans for mental health issues.
- Mental Healthcare Program: Virtual cognitive behavioral therapy for a wide range of conditions such as addiction, anxiety, depression, stress and substance abuse, with up to 12 weeks of support.
New Mental Health Benefits for Union Job Workers Starting March 1, 2025
We are also excited to announce new mental health benefits that will provide even more support and flexibility for our members.
- Live Mental Health Video Therapy: 6 video therapy sessions with a licensed therapist, offering flexibility and privacy from the comfort of your home.
- Intensive Mental Wellness Outpatient Program: Comprehensive treatment with therapy, support, and a mobile app to track your mental wellness goals.
For more details, refer to the PDF outlining all available mental health benefits. Taking the first step towards mental well-being can make all the difference. Remember, help is just a call or click away.
Taking Action: Your Mental Health Matters
Mental health challenges can affect anyone. For skilled trade workers, the nature of the work often involves physical and mental stress. That’s why it’s important to know when to seek help and take action.
These mental health benefits are designed with your well-being in mind, offering flexibility, accessibility, and confidentiality, whether you need short-term support or more intensive, long-term care.
The IUPAT Helping Hand website provides valuable information, tools, and support networks specifically tailored to address mental health challenges in the trades. It’s an excellent resource for union job workers seeking extra guidance.
Your mental health matters. Let’s take action together.
To learn more about the mental health resources available for union job workers, contact us today.
