Union addresses workplace mental health
General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) said workplace mental health must receive greater attention. David Massiah made the statement during a recent two-day workshop on stress management and mental health awareness hosted by the ABWU in collaboration with the International Transport Workers’ Federation. The training brought together workers and union representatives […]
Black News 
General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) said workplace mental health must receive greater attention.
David Massiah made the statement during a recent two-day workshop on stress management and mental health awareness hosted by the ABWU in collaboration with the International Transport Workers’ Federation.
The training brought together workers and union representatives to learn practical skills for managing stress and promoting mental wellness in workplaces and communities.
Topics covered included understanding stress, managing stress, the role of peer educators and first responders, and mental health challenges affecting young workers and women.
“The reality is that stress affects every workplace and every family. We must continue advocating for policies and workplace cultures that place mental health at the forefront and ensure workers have the support systems they need to thrive,” Massiah said.
Workshop facilitator Syed Asif Altaf said one of the main goals was to encourage more open discussions about mental health.
“We want to change that concept, break the stigma and break the silence. We want to be champions and advocates of mental health awareness,” Altaf added.
ITF Regional Secretary Edgar Diaz said the programme was designed to allow participants to pass on the training to others.
“The goal is for participants to become trainers themselves, to multiply and pass the information on to others,” Diaz said.
Participants completed evaluations and received certificates at the end of the workshop.
