One of OSPE’s objectives outlined in our five-year Strategic Plan is to “build coalitions with non-engineering groups on issues of common interest.”
On May 22, 2015, for the first time, OSPE partnered with the Ontario Bar Association (OBA), the Ontario Medical Association (OMA), the Ontario Dental Association and the Ontario Psychological Association to work together on a common front – mental health.
All Rise was organized by the OBA to discuss ways to address mental health issues in the professions and reduce the stigma around issues like depression and substance abuse and addictions.
Karen Chan, OSPE’s President & Chair, represented engineers on a panel discussion at the event, where she outlined how the nature of engineering work can cause stress because of the long hours, pressure to be perfect and responsibility to safeguard the public.
“The summit was an opportunity for professionals to discuss the importance of addressing mental health in their professional settings and to identify solutions for our respective professions,” said OBA President Orlando Da Silva.
“Collaborating with the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers and bringing engineers into the conversation demonstrated a common understanding among participants of the various stresses and stigmas that can be experienced in the workplace. Together, the cross-section of professionals offered fresh thinking about the opportunities and solutions available to benefit the professions, and it is a conversation we hope to continue.”
OSPE looks forward to partnering with these professional associations in the future.
To view the OBA’s summary report of the event, please click here.
Is there a specific issue you think these groups should come together to address?
