Flight Centre's Holistic Mental Health Strategy Sets a New Standard

Flight Centre's Groundbreaking Approach to Employee Mental Health

In a time when mental health conversations are more vital than ever, Flight Centre Travel Group is stepping up to lead the charge in supporting its employees' well-being. Recently crowned the winner of the 2025 Workplace Benefits Awards in the Mental Health Program category, this travel company’s holistic strategy has set a gold standard for employers across Canada.

A Comprehensive 'Deep Health Model'

Flight Centre's winning formula lies in its 'deep health model', which intertwines mental, emotional, physical, relational, existential, and environmental well-being. According to Anna Fisher, the health and wellness director, this comprehensive approach makes mental health a natural part of the company culture. “From day one, employees learn about the resources available to support them,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of instilling mental health awareness during onboarding sessions.

Investing in Employee Well-Being

The global pandemic highlighted the needs of workers more than ever, driving Flight Centre to respond with innovative solutions. Their 'Hour of Power' initiative grants employees one paid hour each week to dedicate to activities that bolster their mental health, such as meditation and journaling. Today, nearly 500 employees engage in this program, which reflects an organizational commitment to prioritizing mental wellness.

Sharing Stories: Building Empathy and Reducing Stigma

The organization also amplifies mental health conversations through its internal podcast series, featuring genuine stories from employees on topics ranging from grief to resilience. This initiative not only fosters empathy but also creates a safe space for open discussions—a necessary step in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace, as noted in research highlighting that 71% of Canadian employees felt mental health issues impacted their professional lives last year.

A Culture of Inclusivity

In an effort to enhance psychological safety and promote inclusion, Flight Centre has developed five employee resource groups focusing on accessibility, racial equity, LGBTQ2S+ rights, gender equity, and environmental justice. These groups lead monthly educational events, helping cultivate a workplace where everyone feels valued and understood. “We want our employees to feel they belong, especially those facing unique challenges,” states Fisher, showcasing the relevance of targeted support.

Balancing Work and Life

Recognizing the hazards of burnout, Flight Centre promotes setting work-life boundaries, encouraging employees to disconnect during off-hours and vacations. In addition, the Toronto headquarters features onsite amenities like a meditation room, providing a peaceful retreat amidst a busy workday and further underscoring the company's commitment to mental well-being.

Forward-Thinking Leadership

To equip leaders with the necessary skills to support employees effectively, Flight Centre invests in mental health leadership training. This training helps leaders identify struggles within their teams and refer employees to appropriate support resources, fostering a productive, understanding work environment. “We want our leaders to feel empowered, knowing they have the tools to help others,” says Fisher.

Flight Centre’s initiative doesn’t just focus on workplace efficiency; it embodies a human-centered approach to employee wellness, proving that by nurturing the overall mental health of its workforce, a thriving and loyal team can emerge. As more companies take note of this transformative approach to well-being, we are likely to witness a shift in workplace culture across sectors.

Explore how Flight Centre's engaging strategies can inspire other organizations to transform their mental health practices too. Together, we can create a supportive and empathetic workplace for everyone.