How can Parliamentarians reflect on the intersection of work-life balance, professional development and mental health?

Parliamentarians work under extraordinary pressures: long hours in legislative sessions, extensive travel, constituency demands and constant public scrutiny. While the role is deeply meaningful, it often requires significant personal sacrifice. Balancing professional responsibilities with family, community and personal wellbeing is an ongoing challenge. 

The CPA Mental Health Toolkit underscores that Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff face exceptional mental health risks arising from factors such as 'high demands and low control', 'imbalance between effort and reward', and excessive public scrutiny. This session offers a rare opportunity for participants to surface and share these lived challenges in an environment of mutual trust. 

This World Café session creates a collaborative space where Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff can exchange experiences, reflect on challenges and co-create practical strategies to sustain their effectiveness while protecting their wellbeing. 

Additional Resources

• CPA Toolkit | CPA Mental Health Toolkit

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