September 23, 2025 (Halifax, Nova Scotia) – AIR (Atlantic Institute for Resilience), a Canadian technology company focused on well-being, released promising results from a digital resilience initiative at Shannex, a leading provider of adult services and care in Canada. Supported by a CAN Health Network commercialization project aimed at improving workforce mental health, this initiative helped employees strengthen their emotional well-being: participants reported a 22% average increase in overall resilience, and 95% said they learned skills helpful for managing stressful situations.
While health care workers already demonstrate remarkable dedication and inner strength, ongoing pressures – including those intensified by the pandemic – have increased the need for accessible, proactive mental health support. AIR’s internet-based resilience training (iRT) program was designed with that in mind, offering tools that enhance existing strengths, support emotional health, and promote long-term wellness.
AIR’s transformational skill-building software, known as the BrainGym, allows frontline workers to take a proactive approach to mental health – where individuals can manage their well-being before challenges gradually worsen into more complex mental health concerns. Participants use the BrainGym on their own time and benefit from the support of a resilience coach. Employees spent almost 1,000 hours in AIR’s BrainGym, with each person spending an average of 9.2 hours in the platform.
“The resilience of our team directly shapes the quality of care we deliver,” said Vanessa White, Vice President People and Culture, Shannex Inc. “By prioritizing mental wellness through programs like this, we’re ensuring our people have the resources, tools, and support they need to thrive, and the positive feedback we’ve received shows us these efforts are making a real difference.”
The iRT program is flexible and inclusive, offering on-demand tools and guidance from certified resilience coaches. At Shannex, 74% of employees who began an AIR coaching program went on to complete it. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive: 97% of participants were highly likely to recommend the program to a colleague or friend. With one participant sharing, “I really enjoyed learning more about my resilience and getting a better understanding of my growth opportunities.”
“The medical system isn’t built to identify mental health risks early – and too many employees slip through the cracks. AIR is a non-clinical, evidence-based solution that identifies employees at risk, builds real skills for resilience, and keeps people well and working,” said Dr. Jackie Kinley, Founder and CEO of AIR. “It delivers measurable outcomes, higher engagement, and relieves pressure on an already overwhelmed system. Our partnership with Shannex and CAN Health has proven that when we lead with innovation, we can reimagine mental health at work. It’s a win-win!”
“This project underscores the critical role of mental health programs in supporting the well-being of health care workers,” said Dr. Dante Morra, Founder and Chair, CAN Health Network. “And it demonstrates the power of the CAN Health Network for introducing more Canadian innovation in health care, supporting homegrown technology, and improving the health of Canadians.”
“The CAN Health Network continues to demonstrate its importance in helping to improve Canada’s health care system by leveraging Canadian health care innovations,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. “The partnership between the Atlantic Institute for Resilience and Shannex is helping health care workers get the mental health support they may need, leading to positive outcomes for Canada’s health care system.”
“Frontline workers are provided with personal protective equipment, or PPE, to protect them physically on the job. Protecting their mental health is just as important, and this innovative software will put a new tool in their hands,” added the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health. “By investing in their well-being and in a stronger health care system, we are investing in the health of every Canadian.”
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustaining a resilient, supported workforce – and to building systems of care that match the strength of those who provide it.
About AIR
AIR (Atlantic Institute for Resilience) is a mental health technology company focused on developing innovative tools and programs designed to improve mental health outcomes for individuals and organizations. Through initiatives like the BrainGym, AIR leverages validated health risk assessment, technology and evidence-based practices to support mental health in the workplace.
For more information on the BrainGym program, please contact: [email protected]
About CAN Health Network
The CAN Health Network brings together leading health care operators from across the country to identify their biggest challenges and match them with Canadian-made technology solutions. The Network’s goals are to introduce homegrown innovation across the country, grow Canadian businesses, create more jobs and improve the health of Canadians.
About Shannex
Shannex is a family-owned organization with a vision of Leading the Way to Better Living. Beginning in 1988, with a single nursing home, the organization now offers a full continuum of services designed to inspire health, wellness and fulfilment at all stages of life. With locations in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Ontario, Shannex brands include Allbright Life, Parkland at Home, Parkland Retirement Living, Faubourg du Mascaret, and Shannex Enhanced Care. For more information, visit www.shannex.com.
