Stress Leave in Canada: Your Rights and How to Apply

If work-related stress is affecting your health, you may be entitled to a leave of absence. In Canada, mental health conditions - including burnout, anxiety, and depression - can qualify as legitimate reasons for medical leave. Your rights depend on your province. Under Ontario\'s Employment Standards Act, employees are entitled to a minimum of three unpaid sick leave days per year, and employers cannot require a medical note for absences of three days or fewer. British Columbia provides five paid sick days and three unpaid days. Alberta\'s Employment Standards Code offers five unpaid personal and family responsibility leave days. For longer stress leaves, you will typically need a medical note from a licensed physician documenting that your condition requires time away from work. This note does not need to disclose your diagnosis - only that you require medical leave and the anticipated duration. If your leave exceeds the provincial minimum, you may qualify for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits, which provide up to 26 weeks of income support at 55% of your earnings (up to a maximum). A medical certificate is required for EI sickness claims. Your employer cannot terminate you for taking a legitimate medical leave. Human rights legislation in every province protects employees with disabilities, including mental health conditions. A telehealth physician can assess your situation and provide the necessary documentation. *This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.