Celebrate wellness, your way | A message from the Defence Team Mental Health Champions

October 05, 2026 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 1:39

Taking care of our people is an essential part of the Defence mission and delivering on that mission requires the collective efforts of the Defence Team. Whether serving at home or abroad, our people need the support and resources to perform at their best. By prioritizing total health and wellness, we can foster a resilient, supported, and engaged Defence Team, creating the conditions for our institution to thrive.

Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month is an opportunity to put this commitment into action. Throughout October, the Defence Team will commemorate Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month by highlighting ways we can support our own well-being, create healthier workplaces, and cultivate a culture where everyone can contribute and succeed.

This year's theme, Wellness, Your Way, gives us the opportunity to reflect on our personal wellness journeys and what well-being means to each of us. Whether it is building healthy habits, connecting with colleagues, or accessing available supports, we all have a role to play in creating a healthier Defence Team.

Throughout the month, we encourage you to participate in the activities and events taking place. Each week will highlight its own theme:

• Week 1 (October 5-9): Wellness designed for you. There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution for wellness. Take time this week to identify what makes you feel your best.
• Week 2 (October 12-16): Building sustainable habits. Focus on setting goals and building habits that will keep you thriving for the long run. Sustainable habits are one of the most important parts of becoming the best version of you.
• Week 3 (October 19-23): Your toolbox for thriving. Discover the resources, tools, and strategies available to help you manage challenges and support your wellness journey.
• Week 4 (October 26-39): Owning your wellness roadmap. As the month wraps up, identify how you can keep your new habits and goals going throughout the year.

Most importantly, we encourage you to take the time to find what makes you feel your best and build long-lasting habits that will carry on far beyond the month of October. When we prioritize lasting wellness, we are better equipped to thrive both as individuals and as members of a healthy, supportive team.

Thank you for doing your part to create a healthy, resilient, and positive workplace.