From February 2 to 6, 2026, Quebec marks the 36th National Suicide Prevention Week, a key moment to talk about mental health, life, and well-being. At InfoTET, we want to address this message especially to Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs), who face unique challenges while living far from their families, adapting to a new country, and working in demanding environments.
Talking about suicide is talking about life. Acknowledging that we are going through difficult times and seeking support is an act of courage, prevention, and solidarity.
TFWs often face situations that can affect their emotional well-being, such as:
- Long work hours and demanding working conditions
- Language and cultural barriers
- Distance from family and social isolation
- Stress related to work permits, housing, and adapting to a new environment
These circumstances can lead to anxiety, depression, stress, or feelings of hopelessness. That is why taking care of mental health is just as important as taking care of physical health. Recognizing warning signs and asking for help can make the difference between feeling alone and finding support.
If you are going through a difficult time, you are not alone. Free, confidential, and accessible services are available:
Suicide Crisis Helpline
- Phone: 988 (available 24/7 across Canada)
- Service available in French, English, and, depending on availability, other languages
- Free and confidential service designed to support anyone going through a difficult moment
Psychosocial Support with CAFLA – PSTM partner
- CAFLA offers listening and support spaces for non-urgent situations
- Ideal for TFWs who want to talk about work-related stress, cultural adjustment, loneliness, or anxiety
- Contact: psychosocial@cafla.ca
- In case of emergency
- If you feel like you may harm yourself, call 911 immediately.
Practical Tips for TFWs
- Talk about your feelings. Sharing your emotions with coworkers, friends, family, or professionals helps relieve tension.
- Connect with your community. Participating in local activities or support groups can reduce feelings of loneliness.
- Take care of your body and mind. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in even light physical activity supports emotional well-being.
- Learn to recognize warning signs. Changes in sleep, very low mood, isolation, or hopeless statements are important signs to watch for.
Key Messages
- Asking for help is an act of courage, not weakness.
- You are not alone: resources are available in Quebec for TFWs.
- Talking about your emotions saves lives.
The 36th National Suicide Prevention Week is an opportunity to take care of your mental health and that of your coworkers. As a TFW, your well-being matters. Every conversation, every supportive gesture, and every resource accessed can make a meaningful difference.
Remember: if you need to talk, call 988 or write to psychosocial@cafla.ca, a PSTM partner. Your life and your mental health matter.
