September 2022 Lunch & Learn Bulletin
Each month Human Resources, Health, Safety and Environment offers a number of one hour sessions devoted to the dimensions of health and well-being. In September, we examine mental and social health topics such as suicide prevention and empathy. Workplace communication and family concerns about children's success in school round out our topics.
All sessions will run from 12:00 – 1:00 pm unless noted otherwise and will be delivered online. Register through the LearnCentre by clicking register and then using the “enroll” button on the top right. New to LearnCentre? Access LearnCentre and scroll down to view this event under available sessions.
Suicide Prevention Awareness
Hilary Sirman, Centre for Suicide Prevention
Thursday, September 8
Suicide prevention is everyone’s business. Each year, one in six Albertans will seriously think about suicide. Suicide has no boundaries. It can affect our family, friends and colleagues. This session from the Centre for Suicide Prevention will look at the the who and why of suicide, as well as some common myths and facts surrounding suicide. Warning signs to look out for and tips for starting a conversation will also be covered.
Improving Workplace Communication
Olivia Morson, EFAP
Tuesday, September 13
Successful work groups are comprised of individuals who know how to communicate effectively with multiple stakeholders in a variety of settings and circumstances. This session will review the key skills that enhance our ability to work well with others by providing information about speaking confidently and assertively, creating a supportive communication climate, listening effectively and asking clear questions.
Helping Your Child Succeed at School
Christine Gatzke, EFAP
Wednesday, September 21
Every parent wants their child to be happy and successful at school. Many parents struggle with knowing how to support their children with school-related activities. This session will invite participants to seek a partnership between each child, the school, and themselves. This partnership will create a positive structure at home to support their children’s experience at school and focus on ways to reward effort rather than outcomes.
Empathy
Olivia Morson, EFAP
Thursday, September 29
Empathy is a key part of emotional intelligence and people who practice empathy tend to be happier and attract friends more easily. In the workplace, empathy leads to more engaged employees, encourages innovation and increases cooperation. Research singles out empathy as a force for productivity, life-work integration and positive work experiences. Empathy is also a skill that can be developed. In this session, participants will learn what empathy is and how to effectively practice empathy in the workplace, along with how to set healthy boundaries and practice self-care.
For information about the Lunch & Learn program, contact our office at workplace.wellbeing@ualberta.ca.