Support is available to our healthcare staff during strike action

We acknowledge the potential psychological and emotional impact strike action may have on healthcare workers during this period. This can be especially strong following the pandemic. We know this time may feel uncertain, and stress levels can be high. Support is available to you whenever you may need it.

Even though the strike is no longer forthcoming, you still may feel the need for personal support.

Supports available to all staff:

• Access support through your wellbeing team at 1-844-820-2010 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00
  • This is a one-on-one support line for all staff. Call to speak with our dedicated Wellbeing Leaders for personalized support. They are here for you to listen, provide support, and connect you with any appropriate resources to help you navigate this challenging time.
• Drop-in virtual wellbeing practice sessions for all staff: Dates and times to be announced.
• Supports available through your Manager: Wellbeing Check-Ins and On-Site or Virtual Drop-In
• Supports available through your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Access support from your Manitoba Blue Cross EAP 24/7 at 204-786-8880 or 1-800-590-5553 (toll free) or [email protected]
• Support for leaders: Consultation support is available to assist leaders in supporting their team and organizing services on-site or virtually.

Other Resources

• The Mental Health & Wellness Resource Finder provides a number of mental health, wellness, and addictions supports and resources for you and those you care about.
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy with Mindfulness (CBTm) is available specifically for health care workers to improve mental well-being: https://cbtm.ca/cbtm-programs/healthcare-workers/
• Mindfulness Meditation Videos with Dr. Jo Ann Unger:
  • Relieving Stress in Our Bodies
  • Self-Compassion
  • Brief Grounding Meditation with Breath
  • Brief Grounding Meditation with Sound

• Doctors Manitoba Physician and Family Support Program at 1-844-4DOCSMB (436-2762)

Stress Reactions During a Labour Dispute

Why a labour dispute can feel stressful?

Strike actions impact everyone differently. Some will have modified duties or increased workloads and others will be
on the picket lines. Emotions can run high for everyone, from employees to patients and their families. Leaders will
need to balance keeping operations running with supporting their teams’ wellbeing. Patients and their families may
have questions or concerns about the changes that are unfolding around them.

It’s normal to feel stressed during a strike. Our bodies and minds react to the uncertainty and changes around us.
The longer the strike lasts, the more stress we might feel, similar to other crises but over a longer period.
During a strike, we may have physical symptoms like headaches, tiredness, trouble sleeping, or an upset stomach.
Mentally, we may find it hard to concentrate, feel distracted or confused, or have negative thoughts. Emotionally,
feelings like frustration, anger, fear, or anxiety are common. Some people may feel numb or detached. This stress
can also affect our behaviour, like withdrawing from our relationships or everyday activities.

Not everyone will react in the same way. How we feel depends on factors like the stress we’re already carrying from
current or past events such as the pandemic. For those already under a lot of pressure, the strike can feel even more
overwhelming. However, past challenges can remind us of how we’ve coped before and what has helped us through
tough times.

What you can do for yourself during this time:

1. Monitor Your Perceptions: A strike is tough for everyone. We may start feeling blame or guilt which can
   affect our relationship with coworkers. When we are tired, it can be harder to show compassion to others. It’s
   helpful to remember that we will still be working together after the strike is over.
2. Stay Informed: Knowing what’s happening can reduce anxiety and uncertainty.
3. Build a Support Network: Connect with your peers and build support. Sharing feelings and concerns with
   coworkers can help. It’s also okay to take time for yourself to focus on other activities and interests.
4. Practice Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care activities you enjoy can to help reduce stress.
5. Stay Active: Movement releases endorphins which supports our moods.
6. Limit News Consumption: While staying informed is important, too much exposure to news, can increase
   anxiety for some.
7. Practice Mindfulness, Grounding and/or Breathing: Mindfulness techniques can help you stay grounded
   and manage stress.
8. Advocate for Your Needs: If you need specific accommodations or support during this time, don’t hesitate to ask.
9. Know Your Rights: Be aware of your rights and obligations as an employee. This can reduce anxiety about
   potential repercussions.
10. Seek Professional Help: If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges,
    consider seeking professional help. Please see resources below.
    Resources