Honourable senators, I rise today to mark Mental Health Week. This year, the Canadian Mental Health Association is reminding us of the importance of kindness and the healing power of compassion.

We all have the capacity to be compassionate, and we know that doing so can make an enormous difference. Compassion allows us to connect with each other, establish trust, strengthen relationships and cultivate a sense of belonging.

A recent study by the Canadian Mental Health Association, or CMHA, confirms what we already knew about the generous and compassionate nature of Canadians: 76% of Canadians say that when they see someone struggling, they feel compelled to help. However, over half admit feeling overwhelmed by the issues, and are unsure where to begin.

Colleagues, as managers, we must always foster a safe and supportive work culture in our offices and in the entire Senate community. The Senate Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness team encourages us to engage in open communication so that staff feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns and emotions without fear of judgment. In the high-paced, high‑intensity environment of working on the Hill, we may sometimes forget to check in with our staff. I encourage all senators and managers to engage with them and to see how they are truly doing. Talking openly about their struggles and anxieties may be difficult and overwhelming. I know we all want our staff to thrive, but they must feel appropriately supported, valued and, perhaps most importantly, heard and understood. It is especially important to support Canada’s youth, who are facing high levels of stress and mental health challenges.

That is why I welcome the government’s recent announcement of a $500-million youth mental health fund.

Many young staffers on the Hill chose politics because they are passionate about Canada. Offering them a safe place to work, where mental health and wellness are at the heart of the workplace, is fundamental. Long hours and unpredictable sittings make the Senate a unique place to work. We have the best people working in the Senate, but it’s important that they have a healthy work-life balance, and can disconnect on weekends and evenings. That responsibility falls upon us.

Honourable senators, to reduce the feelings of stress, anxiety and depression, it is incumbent upon us to make every effort possible to ensure our workplace promotes and protects our employees’ mental well-being. Empathy, compassion, and understanding should always be our guiding principles.

Thank you. Meegwetch.