By AVORA Wellbeing in partnership with PPRC

#MentalHealthWeek2025 | May 5–11

Starting a new job is often celebrated as a time of opportunity, growth, and fresh beginnings. But for many, it’s also one of life’s most stressful transitions. The pressure to perform, to fit in, and to “get it right” can feel overwhelming—especially for those silently coping with mental health or substance use challenges.

This Mental Health Week, we’re unmasking the hidden emotional labour that so often goes unseen.

The Hidden Weight Behind the Smile

From the outside, a new employee might look confident and composed—but beneath the surface, they may be masking fear, anxiety, or self-doubt. For individuals struggling with mental health concerns, the act of showing up to a new job while managing internal battles is an incredible feat of strength.

The theme of this year’s Mental Health Week—Unmasking Mental Health—reminds us that the more we hide, the heavier the mask becomes. And during high-stress life events like job transitions, that weight can feel unbearable.

Work and Connection: Cornerstones of Well-Being

Work isn’t just about productivity—it’s about purpose, connection, and belonging. Research shows that meaningful employment and social bonds are two of the strongest determinants of mental well-being. But when mental health challenges come into play, navigating these spaces becomes more complex.

New roles demand emotional energy, cognitive focus, and confidence—things that can be deeply impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction recovery. Many push through silently, afraid to speak up for fear of judgment or losing their opportunity altogether.

But you are not alone. And you don’t have to walk this path without support.

PPRC and AVORA Wellbeing: Partnering for Real Support

To meet this moment head-on, PPRC and AVORA Wellbeing are partnering to deliver innovative mental health supports designed specifically for individuals navigating job transitions.

This new initiative offers both individual counselling and group counselling options, creating space for people to build resilience, find connection, and learn real strategies for emotional well-being in the workplace.

Whether you’re preparing for a job, starting something new, or working through the stress of change, our programming is built to support you at every step—because we know this is more than a job; it’s a milestone.

Support in the Transition: Why Structure Matters

Transitions are when people need help the most—and yet it’s often when they receive the least. That’s why creating structured, facilitated environments—like the ones offered in our program—is critical.

From personalized counselling to group-based peer support, these environments allow individuals to show up as their full selves, explore calming strategies, and maintain their well-being through meaningful, practical tools.

Creating Space for Real Connection 

When we create space for people to be themselves—without fear or pressure—we foster the kind of connection that supports lasting mental well-being. This Mental Health Week, we invite employers, colleagues, and communities to look beyond the surface and truly see the whole person.

Because behind every mask is a human being, doing their best.

And they deserve support, not stigma.

Let’s reimagine the workplace as a space for growth, support, and connection.

PPRC and AVORA Wellbeing are here to support your journey.

#UnmaskingMentalHealth #MentalHealthWeek2025 #AVORAWellbeing #PPRC #WorkplaceWellness #YouAreNotAlone