World Mental Health Day 2025
October 10 is World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme is about creating spaces where it’s safe to talk about mental health and where people feel supported. Mental well-being is as important as physical health, and we encourage everyone to take small steps each day toward caring for themselves and each other.
Diversity, equity & inclusion
Learn more about DEI at MLT Aikins.
Mental health matters
Mental health is essential to overall health and well-being, and includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also shapes how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health matters at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood, during our education and in our professional lives.
We’re seeing widespread occurrences and more recognition of mental health issues in our communities. Those in the legal profession face a higher rate of depression, anxiety and burn-out than many other professions.
We encourage MLT Aikins team members to learn more about mental health here.
Why mental health matters at work
- Improves focus, productivity and creativity.
- Reduces burnout and absenteeism.
- Strengthens teamwork and relationships.
- Helps us bring our best selves to both work and home.
Practical ways to support your mental health
- Take short breaks – Step away from your desk, stretch, or go for a short walk.
- Set boundaries – Log off on time and protect personal time where possible.
- Stay connected – Check in with a colleague, grab coffee or share a meal.
- Be mindful of stress signals – Notice changes in your behaviour, mood or energy levels.
- Practice mindfulness – Try a few minutes of deep breathing or a short guided meditation.
- Seek balance – Sleep, hydration, and exercise make a big difference.
If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis or has suicide-related concerns: Call or text 9-8-8
9-8-8 is for anyone who is thinking about suicide, or who is worried about someone they know. Connect to a responder to get help without judgement.
How you can support colleagues
- Check in – A simple “How are you doing?” can mean a lot.
- Listen without judgment – Sometimes, people just need to be heard.
- Practice empathy – Try to understand your colleague’s perspective, acknowledge their feelings and offer support without making assumptions.
- Know where to refer – Encourage professional help if someone is struggling.
- Respect boundaries – Support doesn’t mean prying. Let colleagues share only what they’re comfortable with.
- Celebrate small wins – Recognize and appreciate your colleagues’ efforts, especially during tough times.
- Encourage work-life balance – Respect others’ time by avoiding after-hours messages and supporting breaks and time off.
- Model openness – If you feel comfortable, share your own self-care strategies or experiences. It helps normalize mental health conversations and reduce stigma.
Resources
- Canadian Psychologists Association – find a psychologist
- Canadian Mental Health Association – mental health resources
- Bell Let’s Talk
- Mental Health Commission of Canada
- Workplace Strategies for Mental Health
- Manitoba Mental Health & Wellness Resource Finder
- World Health Organization – Mental Health at Work
- World Mental Health Day
- Government of Canada – Mental Health Support
- Wellness and meditation apps – Headspace, Calm, Insight Timer, Waking Up, Let Us Be
- MLT Aikins team members, visit the Mental Health Resource Centre for more!
