Stories of Hope: The Power of Peer Support and Community

Natasha Tony on Psychological Safety in Film

In the latest episode of the Calltime Mental Health Podcast (Season 3: Stories of Hope), host Gregg Taylor speaks with Natasha Tony - a labor relations specialist, trainer, and CEO at Elevate Inclusion Strategies. Having taken part in the original Calltime Public Service Announcement (PSA) a decade ago, Natasha returns to reflect on the evolving landscape of psychological health and safety in the BC motion picture industry.

Overcoming Stigma and the Fear of Reputation Loss

In the film and television sector, crew members often hesitate to speak up about mental health or addiction struggles due to the fear of losing work or damaging their professional reputation. However, Natasha emphasizes that navigating mental health challenges or substance use is human, and that effective help is available across the industry.

Having worked in film for over 30 years, Natasha has observed an encouraging cultural shift over the past six to seven years. Where workers once routinely pressed an "override button" to push through extreme exhaustion, carrying a heavy allostatic load of stored stress, there is now broader recognition of human limits and the necessity of true work-life integration.

Practical Interventions for Nervous System Regulation

Managing stress and preventing burnout requires active, daily interventions that restore balance to the nervous system. Natasha incorporates several practical approaches into her work and training sessions:

• Nature Connection: Spending quiet time outdoors to build mindfulness, grounding, and physical presence.

• Somatic Practices: Utilizing focused breathing exercises and meditation to soothe physical stress.

• Creative Expression: Engaging in art, writing, photo journaling, or independent creation outside of set demands.

• Building Community: Choosing connection over isolation by actively reaching out to peers, family, and supportive networks.

Walking Side by Side Toward a Healthier Sector

Natasha envisions a future where crew members walk side by side - feeling empowered to give and receive care without fear of judgment.

Support and resources available to film industry members:

• Calltime Mental Health Tools: Access counseling guidance, addiction recovery resources, and the Find a Counselor directory at CalltimeMentalHealth.com.

  
  

• BC Union Member Benefits: Explore mental health funding, counseling programs, and recovery assistance offered through ACFC West Local 2020, DGC BC, IATSE 891, ICG 669, Teamsters 155, and UBCP/ACTRA.

  
  

• Become a Calltime Champion: Join a growing online network of sector members advocating for mental health awareness and peer support on set at calltimementalhealth.com/champions.