The list below is a sample of the topics covered in past initiatives. Initiatives are selected to address issues that are timely, relevant, and known to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of our population. Each initiative takes a comprehensive approach to dealing with the topic by offering information and resources in the form of the 10 program components.

STRESS BUSTERS (2002)

According to the 2001 Canadian Mental Health Survey, three quarters (76%) of Canadians feel very stressed at least once per month and about half (51%) feel that work is a contributor to serious stress. High levels of stress affect both the employer (e.g., reduced productivity, higher rates of abseentism) and the employee (e.g., family, alcohol, gambling and drug related problems). The focus of this initiative was to help employees identify ways to cope with stress in both the home and work environment. Sample topics covered in this initiative included dealing with road rage, handling the stress of quitting smoking, and the diet-stress connection.

ACTIVE SAFE SUMMER (2003)

In most cases, 90% of unintentional injuries (often called accidents) are predictable and preventable. It is important to recognize and manage the risks as injuries are the leading cause of death for those aged 1-44 years in the province of Ontario. The focus of this initiative was to promote safe outdoor activity. Sample topics covered in this initiative included West Nile Virus protection, sun safety, and picnic/barbeque safety.

RESOLUTIONS…STAYING ON TRACK (2004)

The New Year is a time when many individuals make a resolution to improve their health. Despite good intentions, most fail to keep on target due to unrealistic goal setting or lack of support. The focus of this initiative was to increase success when making New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, reduce stress, or quit smoking. Sample topics covered in this initiative included setting realistic goals, tips on quitting smoking, and dealing with obstacles to being more active.

FAMILY FOCUS: FOOD, FUN AND FITNESS – A FAMILY AFFAIR (2004)

Childhood is the best time for parents and caregivers to introduce and role model positive health behaviours, including healthy eating and regular physical activity. Research tells us that these factors can help combat childhood obesity, a condition that is steadily on the rise. Children who become obese are more likely to develop into obese adults and are also at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes, a previously “adult” condition. The focus of this initiative was to help parents identify ways to fit healthy eating and physical activity into their families’ busy lives. Sample topics covered in this initiative included healthy eating at fast food restaurants, choosing the right sport or recreation program for your child, and children and dieting.

WORK-LIFE BALANCE (2004)

According to Canadian research, almost 60% of those employed outside the home have experienced work-life conflict as a result of problems balancing their work and family demands. Referred to as work-life conflict, this occurs when one or more roles become difficult as a result of fulfilling another responsibility. Unfortunately, it can lead to unhealthy outcomes like poor eating habits, lack of sleep and unstable relationships. The focus of this initiative was to address key issues associated with balancing roles and responsibilities at work and at home. Sample topics covered in this initiative included setting priorities, enhancing communication skills at home and at work, making time for yourself, strategies for healthy relationships, and dealing with conflict.

5 TO TEN…YES, YOU CAN (2005)

Statistics Canada reports that almost two-thirds of Windsor-Essex County residents 12 years of age and older do not consume the daily recommended 5 servings of vegetables and fruit. As a result, they are missing out on valuable nutrients that reduce the risk of developing several chronic diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and some forms of cancer. The focus of this initiative was to encourage people to eat more vegetables and fruit. Sample topics covered in this initiative included the health benefits of eating more vegetables and fruit, as well as tips on how to increase intake at meals and snacks at home and at work.

FUTURE INITIATIVES

Future initiatives will be selected based on what we know from the literature as well as what we are told by the employers, labour group employees, retirees, and family members involved with the WTW Program. Initiatives that address the following health issues are already in the works: sleep and health; health during the winter months; and infectious disease control.