Remembrance Day was Monday, and we thank all of our veterans and current Armed Forces members for their service to their country. Every freedom we have is due to the sacrifice these men and women have made.

Veterans (and their families) face a distinct set of mental health challenges, whether they served in active combat or not. A lot of work has been done around Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), due to the very difficult things many veterans witness.

Depression, loneliness and anxiety are also fairly common; and so is adjustment disorder – where soldiers work to transition from the highly structured and disciplined military life to being a civilian.

If you, or someone you know, needs help, the Canadian government has set up a 24/7 hotline for veterans, former RCMP members, families and caregivers. Call 1-800-268-7708.

And to all who serve, or have served: thank you.

Each week, ICBA’s Jordan Bateman reflects on what we’ve learned as we participate in ICBA’s Workplace Wellness Program. ICBA’s Workplace Wellness Program has helped more than 100 companies and 15,000 construction professionals better understand mental health. This program is free for all ICBA members – check out icba.ca/wellness for details.