KHSC is committed to creating a work environment prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of staff, patients, and families. Psychological safety, as defined by Amy Edmondson as a "shared belief that a space is safe for interpersonal risk-taking," is central to our approach. We also draw from Timothy Clark’s work, understanding that fostering psychological safety requires a holistic strategy.
Healthcare workers face unique challenges like heavy workloads, trauma exposure, and ethical dilemmas, which contribute to burnout, mental health issues, and workforce turnover. According to the Canadian Medical Association (2021), healthcare workers are at a higher risk for stress-related conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide. Over 40% of Canadian physicians are in advanced stages of burnout, and healthcare workers are 1.5 times more likely to take time off due to illness or disability than those in other sectors (Conference Board of Canada). You can explore the full details of the survey here.
KHSC’s Psychological Health and Safety Policy (02-026) aligns with the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (CSA Z1003), which includes healthcare-specific considerations. We are developing a comprehensive framework and multi-year action plan to promote mental health, reduce stigma, and ensure everyone at KHSC feels supported and valued. For more information, click here.
