National Recovery Month - September
Dear Members,
September is National Recovery Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of mental health and addiction recovery. As flight attendants, we face unique challenges that can impact our mental well-being. Long hours, irregular schedules, and the constant pressure to provide exceptional service can take a toll. It's essential to prioritize self-care and recognize the importance of seeking support when needed.
Understanding Recovery
Recovery is a journey, not a destination. It's about regaining control of your life, building resilience, and finding hope. Whether you're personally struggling or supporting a loved one, it's important to understand that recovery is possible.
Your Well-Being Matters
WestJet is committed to supporting the well-being of its employees. If you're facing challenges related to mental health or substance use, remember you're not alone.
Employee and Family Assistance Program
WestJet's Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) offers confidential counseling and resources to help you and your family navigate difficult times. Their partnership with Inkblot provides five free hours of access to mental health professionals. Learn more at the button below.
Alcohol and Drug Program
WestJet's Alcohol and Drug Program offers confidential support and resources for employees facing substance abuse challenges. This program includes assessment, treatment planning, and aftercare support. WestJet is committed to helping employees on their path to recovery. If you are struggling with substances and would like to understand the resources available, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a confidential conversation with WestJet’s Alcohol and Drug Program Manager Mike Middlebrook at mike.middlebrook@westjet.com or (403) 585-4267. Learn more at the button below.
Self-Care Tips
Prioritize sleep: Aim for consistent sleep patterns to support overall well-being.
Manage stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing into your routine.
Build connections: Spend quality time with loved ones and nurture your support system.
Set boundaries: Learn to say no and prioritize your needs.
Seek professional help: Don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you're struggling.
Breaking the Stigma
Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. By fostering a culture of open communication and support, we can create a healthier and happier workplace for everyone.
Personal Story
[this true story of a colleague's personal journey can hit close to home for some, please read at your discretion]
“My Journey to Recovery: From Turbulence to Triumph
As a flight attendant, my life revolved around high altitudes, fast-paced schedules, fancy layovers, and the constant demand to be alert and professional. But beneath the surface, I was struggling with something far more challenging than jet lag—alcoholism. In our industry, drinking is a huge part of the culture. After long flights and time away from home, it’s common to unwind with a few drinks. However, for me, what started as a way to relax and have fun spiraled into a dependency that began to consume my life.
The effects were undeniable. I missed countless days of work, unable to drag myself out of bed after another night of heavy drinking. On days I did show up, I was far from my best—my performance suffered, and I put myself and others in uncomfortable situations. The job I once loved became a source of dread, and I found myself increasingly isolated, both from my colleagues and the life I once enjoyed.
Flight attendants face significant challenges with alcohol and substance abuse. Studies show that around 10-15% of flight attendants struggle with alcoholism, a statistic that reflects the high-stress environment and cultural pressures within the industry. It was difficult to admit I had a problem when so many around me were doing the same thing. The stigma surrounding alcoholism made it even harder to seek help.
My attendance issues didn’t go unnoticed. My DPM grew increasingly frustrated with my unreliability. When I was finally confronted about my behavior, I feared it might be the end of my career. But instead of closing the door on me, WestJet offered support. They provided access to an excellent recovery program designed to set us up for success—but only if we were willing to put in the work.
I chose to take that support. Treatment became my refuge, a place where I could confront my addiction and begin the long road to recovery, with the full backing of work, family, friends and my 12-step group!
Today, I’m proud to say I’m sober. But the journey doesn’t end here—it’s an ongoing process, one that requires daily commitment and the support of a strong community. National Recovery Month holds special significance for me now. Observed every September, National Recovery Month is a time to celebrate the gains made by those in recovery, recognize the efforts of treatment providers, and increase awareness about the need for continued support and resources for those struggling with substance use disorders. It’s an opportunity to reflect on how far I’ve come and to reach out to others who may be struggling.
Recovery is possible, especially when you have a strong support system behind you. WestJet played a crucial role in my recovery, and I’m grateful every day for the second chance they’ve given me. While the stigma around alcoholism is still very real, today, getting sober and seeking recovery is celebrated more than ever. I was asked to share my story, and I do so with the hope that it might help someone else. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone. There’s help out there, and you deserve the chance to reclaim your life, just as I did. Recovery isn’t just about staying sober—it’s about finding a path to a healthier, more fulfilling life. And that’s something worth celebrating, this month and every day. ”
Resources and Support
If you are in need of support, consider reaching out to external resources below or local mental health organizations.
Inkblot Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Crisis 24/7 support line 1-855-933-0103
Crisis Services Canada 1-833-456-4566
Remember: You are not alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help.
CUPE Local 4070