Canadian North Partners with MHASO to Expand Mental Health & Addiction Support

Canadian North, an Inuit-owned airline, today announced a new partnership with Mental Health and Addiction Services Ottawa (MHASO), expanding access to mental health and addiction support for employees. This initiative further strengthens the support available to Canadian North employees, addressing critical needs in the communities we serve.

Through this partnership, Canadian North employees will have enhanced access to assessments, counselling, and treatment for mental health and addiction issues. MHASO’s expertise will provide accessible and effective care, adaptable to diverse needs, through on-site and virtual support options. This initiative also includes the option for Canadian North employees to refer services to others in their community.

“Mental health affects us all and often in silence,” said Canadian North’s President & CEO, Shelly De Caria. “This partnership with MHASO represents a significant step in empowering our employees to break the silence and address mental health and substance use concerns in our communities. Our commitment is to provide accessible and tailored support for our employees, while also considering the needs of their families and community.”

“Northern communities are rich in cultural strengths and have a deep bond with the natural environment, however they frequently face challenges in accessing sufficient and prompt mental health and addiction resources,” said Raymond Walli, MHASO’s Manager of Operations, “We at MHASO are thrilled to announce our commitment today to Canadian North, its dedicated staff, their families, and the broader communities they support.”

Canadian North remains resolute in its commitment to supporting the well-being of its employees, their families, and the communities we serve. This dedication extends to providing accessible and tailored mental health and addiction support for all, with a particular focus on the unique needs of Inuit and Indigenous communities.

If you or someone you know is in crisis: If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent medical support, call 9-1-1. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.