Most Canadians crave connection during pandemic: survey

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VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — As social distancing and isolation measures continue, data from the Canadian Mental Health Association finds Canadians are craving real, meaningful connections.

A survey done for the CMHA marking the beginning on Mental Health week finds three-quarters of Canadians are likely to say they’re fine to express how they’re doing, despite the fact many people are feeling more negative emotions than positive ones these days.

There has been an increased usage of social media and video conferencing, but two-thirds of Canadians say they would like to experience more meaningful social interactions in their daily life.

“Most Canadians want more social connection, yet they’re reluctant to have the kind of honest, open conversations that build the connection they crave,” says Margaret Eaton, national CEO of CMHA. “In our society, it’s a cultural norm to ask people how they’re doing, but not to expect, nor provide, a truthful answer. This Mental Health Week, it’s time to get real about how we feel. It’s clear we need each other more than ever.”

The CMHA says strong social networks can lead to better self-esteem, coping mechanisms and a sense of well-being, and reduce depression and distress by providing emotional support.

Data also shows only nine per cent of Canadian respondents say they are feeling happy, while almost half say they are feeling anxious and isolated.

Prior to the global pandemic, loneliness was already a major public health concern and now the CMHA says those with weak or few social connections are at increased risk for anxiety, depression, anti-social behaviour and suicide.

According to the CMHA, a lack of strong relationships has the same negative impact on life expectancy as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

“As a society, we are grieving those lost to the pandemic and the massacre in Nova Scotia and we can’t gather right now or give each other hugs. Relying on others and sharing our very normal feelings of sadness, fear and loss is hugely important right now, even if it’s from afar,” says Eaton. “Social connection will help us recover as a community.”

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