Invisible Injuries: Addressing Psychological Harm at Work

Psychological harm at work is often hidden, but its impact on employees is profound.

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Delivery Options: In person or virtual

• Ideal Audience: Leaders, supervisors, health and safety teams, HR pros and employee wellness champions

Psychological wellness impacting your organization's bottom line, one way or another. While traditional occupational health models focus on keeping employees physically safe on the job, Psychological Health & Safety Consultant Elizabeth Eldridge will show you how neglecting mental wellness at work means your organization is functioning below capacity. Learn why mental health must be acknowledged as a vital component of occupational health, and how making it a priority and implementing practical strategies will help your organization reach its full potential. 

Workplaces are well-versed in preventing and responding to physical injuries — but what about psychological ones? Harassment, bullying, excessive workload, toxic culture, and unresolved conflict can cause psychological harm that’s harder to see but every bit as damaging. When ignored, these “invisible injuries” contribute to absenteeism, presenteeism, disengagement, high turnover, and in some cases, long-term mental health conditions.

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In many provinces, psychological injury claims — both acute and gradual onset — are now compensable through Workers’ Compensation Boards (WCB). That means understanding psychological injuries is no longer optional; it’s vital for compliance. Just as employers assess physical risks, organizations must also assess and mitigate psychosocial risks in order to be proactive and protect both people and performance.

This session explores the hidden impact of psychological injuries at work and why organizations can’t afford to overlook them. Participants will learn to recognize the sources and signs of harm, understand the ripple effects on individuals and teams, and explore the legal and ethical responsibilities of employers to protect psychological safety. Moving beyond awareness, the session equips participants with practical strategies for prevention, early intervention, and support when harm has occurred. Through real-world examples, participants will discover how to build a culture where psychological health is safeguarded with the same seriousness as physical safety.

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Key Learning Outcomes for Participants:

• Understand what constitutes psychological harm in the workplace and how it differs from everyday stress.

• Recognize the sources and warning signs of invisible injuries such as bullying, harassment, and toxic workload.

• Explore the organizational impact of psychological harm, including absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover.

• Learn how psychological injuries are treated by Workers’ Compensation Boards (WCB) and why compliance matters.

• Gain practical tools for assessing and mitigating psychosocial risks to prevent harm before it happens.

• Apply strategies for early intervention and building a culture where psychological health is safeguarded as seriously as physical safety.