Supporting Wellness Together:
In many Indigenous teachings, wellness begins with relationships: with ourselves, one another, the land, and the responsibilities we carry for our communities. This understanding guides the wellness program at Castlemain and our commitment to supporting those who support others.
The work our teams do every day is meaningful and complex. Employees walk alongside individuals, families, and communities through challenging experiences, carrying stories shaped by history, resilience, and lived experience. Supporting this work requires more than traditional workplace wellness approaches; it requires spaces that honour connection, culture, compassion, and collective care.
Our approach is grounded in the understanding that wellness is relational and interconnected. When people feel connected, supported, and grounded in purpose, they are better able to carry the responsibilities placed before them. Wellness is also a shared responsibility. Indigenous and non-Indigenous colleagues each contribute to creating a healthier workplace through listening, learning, relationship-building, and respect for culturally grounded approaches. Reconciliation calls us to continue this work together with openness, humility, and care.
On World Mental Health Day, we recognize the importance of supporting those who support others. Caring for employees helps sustain meaningful work and strengthens the relationships and capacity people need to thrive.
Reflections from Employees: The Impact of Wellness Support
I asked my colleagues what our wellness program means to them, and this is what some of our Claims Helpers shared.
How has wellness support helped me in my role?
“For me personally, wellness support has improved my work by helping me set boundaries and access resources that prevent burnout. It has brought more balance into my workday and provided tools to navigate interpersonal challenges. It has also helped boost my morale and reminded me that taking care of myself allows me to better support others.”
What practices, teachings, or supports help you stay grounded?
“I have appreciated opportunities to participate in circles and gatherings that bring forward deep wisdom, guidance, and connection. Knowledge keepers and cultural supports provide opportunities to restore balance in our minds, bodies, and spirits while reminding us of our connection to community, land, and one another.”
Why does workplace wellness matter in this work?
“Workplace wellness is essential because many employees navigate experiences involving trauma, chronic stress, and emotional demands. To provide compassionate and meaningful support to others, employees also need support themselves. Having access to wellness resources strengthens our ability to remain present, focused, and empathetic in our roles. When employees are supported, the quality of care and service provided to others is strengthened as well.”
Walking Forward Together
Wellness is not only about the programs, resources, or spaces we create, it is about the relationships we build and the care we extend to one another.
It is a privilege to be part of work rooted in compassion, reconciliation, and relationship. Every day, we have an opportunity to learn from one another, honour the knowledge and experiences people bring, and create a workplace where wellness is understood as essential to the work we do. It is an ongoing commitment demonstrated through our actions, relationships, and the ways we show up for one another.
With gratitude to all employees who continue to bring courage, kindness, resilience, and care to this important work.
Veronica Roesler
Wellness Director
