Take the Day! Mental Health Resources

 

We want to ensure that all members are taking good care of themselves and their families. We recognize that there are many current events and personal circumstances that may make it difficult for you to work at your best. What you need to be healthy may change, and that’s okay. 

If you have concerns and you need additional information or support, please contact AAPS for a confidential conversation by filling out the Advocacy Request Form.  

 

SICK LEAVE

The law does not distinguish between physical and mental health, and neither should you.

If you are stressed out, burnt out, overwhelmed, or low, take the day. You can use sick days to take care of your mental health, and typically, if you take less than 5 consecutive sick days, you do not need to disclose information about the nature of your illness to your employer. However, UBC may inquire as to the reasons for your absence, particularly in circumstances where they see a pattern of absenteeism, sick leave abuse, excessive absenteeism or a failing graduated return to work.

UBC can ask for a doctor’s note after 5 consecutive working days or if you are exhibiting a strange pattern of behaviour as mentioned above. If you have been asked for a note and it has not been 5 consecutive working days, please contact the AAPS Office for advice by completing the AAPS Advocacy Request Form.

There are rules in your Collective Agreement on what your employer is entitled to know. If you are told that your doctor’s note is not sufficient or receive a letter that you must provide additional information, please contact AAPS before taking it to your doctor.

Review Article 12.3 of your Collective Agreement to learn more about Sick Leave and Sick Leave Documentation.

 

ACCOMMODATIONS AND LEAVES

If in consultation with your medical professional, it is recommended that either a physical or time accommodation will support you staying at work, please contact AAPS. We can support you through the accommodation process.

Article 12 in your Collective Agreement lists the leaves that are accessible to AAPS members.

 

UBC EXTENDED HEALTH BENEFITS

If you qualifity for UBC Benefits, under your UBC extended health plan, you can access a registered psychologist, clinical counsellor, or social worker. You do not need a referral, and your visits are 100% covered up to $3,000 per benefits year. Learn more about paramedical services on the UBC benefits website.

 

EFAP

24/7/365 counselling services are available for you and your family from your UBC Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider Telus Health One at 1-866-424-0770 or by following the log in instructions on UBC's website: https://hr.ubc.ca/benefits/benefit-plan-details/employee-and-family-assistance-program

Counselling is available in person, over the phone, and online. They offer many other services such as stress & health help, legal/finance help, and resources to support older adults and children. You can learn more about UBC's EFAP on their website. If you are not comfortable using your CWL to access EFAP you can use workhealthlife.com. 

 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

The Justics Institute Of BC has a helpful resources page for provincial Crisis Lines and Resources.