Workplace Safety & Health

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many people. While it’s often presented as a time of celebration, it can also bring added stress, financial pressure, grief, loneliness, and emotional strain. For some, mental health challenges feel more intense during this period, and those feelings don’t always disappear once the calendar turns to January.

As we move into a new year, CUPE 998 wants to remind members that looking after your health and well-being is essential. January often comes with a full workload, new expectations, and pressure to “reset.” Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury — it’s necessary. Small, consistent habits can make a real difference.

Common Seasonal Stressors

• Increased work and financial pressures
• Changes to routine and sleep patterns
• Family conflict or strained relationships
• Grief, loss, or isolation
• High expectations during the holidays and the new year

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or low, you are not alone. Many people experience this, even if it isn’t always visible.

Practical Ways to Support Your Well-Being

Stay Active
Try to build movement into your day wherever possible, especially if your job is mostly desk-based. Standing up regularly, stretching, or taking short walks can reduce stiffness and mental fatigue. Small choices, like using the stairs or walking during breaks, add up over time.

Fuel Your Body
Balanced meals and staying hydrated support both physical and mental performance. When your body is properly fueled, energy levels and focus improve. If you’re making changes this year, start small and aim for what feels sustainable.

Take Time to Reset
Breaks are not wasted time — they’re essential. Even a few minutes away from your work can help reset your focus. Use breaks to stretch, breathe, or step outside for fresh air when possible.

Prioritize Rest
Sleep plays a major role in overall health. Consistent sleep and wake times and a calming nighttime routine can improve mood, concentration, and resilience.

Support Your Mental Health
Your mental well-being matters just as much as your physical health. Whether it’s spending time with family, getting outdoors, reading, or unplugging for a while, make time for what helps you recharge. If you’re struggling, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Mental Health Resources

If you or someone you know could benefit from additional support, the following resources are available:

 Below are some resources:

• The Lifeline Canadian Foundation
• Guidelines for Recovery-Orientated Practice
•  Understanding Anxiety and Panic Disorder video
• 211 Saskatchewan / 211 Manitoba / 211 Alberta
• Blue Pages
• Mood Disorders Society of Canada – Help Us Improve Mental Health in Canada
• EMentalHealth.ca
• midmorning
• Anxiety Canada
• Continuum Self Check
• SelfCare.Ca
• Where to Get Care

These resources offer information, self-assessment tools, and connections to professional and community supports.

Additional Supports

The Blue Cross Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access immediate support or to discuss/book counselling sessions, connect with a counsellor online or by phone at 1-800-590-5553. Manitoba Hydro and Efficiency Manitoba covers 12 EAP sessions per year.

CUPE 998 encourages all members to prioritize their mental wellness through the holiday season and into the new year. Taking care of your mind isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. When you’re supported, you’re stronger, your union is always here to support you.

CUPE Local 998’s Health and Safety Committee is deeply concerned by the recent rise in workplace accidents across the corporation. These incidents, affecting both CUPE members and other employees, underscore systemic issues in workplace safety protocols that demand immediate attention and action.

Compounding these concerns are the unprecedented wildfires sweeping across Manitoba. As of today, over 27,000 residents have been evacuated, including many CUPE members and their families. The fires have led to hazardous air quality levels, with smoke spreading across much of our province, posing significant health risks to all workers, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The convergence of increased workplace incidents and environmental hazards highlights the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures. We urge the corporation to:

• Conduct thorough investigations into recent workplace accidents and implement corrective actions.
• Enhance communication regarding safety protocols related to air quality and wildfire risks.
• Provide necessary protective equipment and support for all employees, particularly those in affected areas.

CUPE Local 998 is actively collaborating with CUPE Manitoba and other organizations such as the Red Cross Donations to support those impacted by the wildfires. Donation drives are underway to assist evacuees, including members from First Nations communities.

CUPE urges all members and families in Manitoba to monitor local alerts for information on wildfire evacuations and air quality. Consult Manitoba 511 for updated highway maps.

We encourage all members to stay informed, report any safety concerns promptly, and support one another during this challenging time. Please feel free to reach out to your committee chair Nick Ogryzlo with your concerns.

In solidarity,
CUPE Local 998 Health and Safety Committee