Fight for Full Recognition of Workplace Psychological Injuries

A theme of many of the events marking the Day of Mourning in 2026 is the fight for full recognition of psychological injuries in the workplace. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) draws attention to this serious problem: "What are psychological injuries? They're invisible, unseen conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), burnout, anxiety, and depression caused by traumatic and hurtful experiences at work. Just like physical injuries, psychological injuries can be debilitating and even catastrophic, profoundly impacting someone's well-being, their personal life, as well as their ability to keep their jobs. Tragically, in the most painful cases, these injuries can lead to death by suicide."

CUPW points out that psychological illnesses are the top cause of disability in Canada and account for one-third of disability claims. Nearly half of working Canadians consider their work to be the most stressful part of the day. Psychological illnesses cost the Canadian economy more than $50 billion annually.

Among the demands put forward are that employers ensure psychological injuries are treated as seriously as physical injuries in the workplace. Other demands are that they reduce the hazards that cause psychological injuries, including high workloads, poor workplace culture, harassment and stress.

Federal and provincial governments are adopting anti-worker and anti-social measures to serve the narrow private interests of the billionaires and oligarchs, in the name of "nation-building." Laws and regulations – including those that provide certain workplace protections – are being cast aside, putting workers in greater danger of physical and psychological injuries at work.

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This article was published in

Volume 56 Number 24 - April 28, 2026

Article Link:
https://cpcml.ca/TML2026/Articles/T560243.HTM

Website:  www.cpcml.ca   Email:  editor@cpcml.ca