It’s no surprise: the pandemic is taking an emotional toll on people in Canada.
According to a survey released Monday by the Canadian Mental Health Association, 77% of adults report feeling so-called negative emotions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It said the five most common responses across Canada were ‘worried or anxious,’ ‘bored,’ ‘stressed,’ ‘lonely or isolated’ and ‘sad’.
The survey found overall, a large number of Canadians (41%) report a decline in their mental health since the onset of the pandemic.
However, the good news is most Canadians (79%) say they are coping at least fairly well with the stress of the pandemic, using approaches such as:
- walking or exercising outside (51%),
- connecting with family and friends virtually (43%),
- maintaining a healthy lifestyle (40%),
- keeping up to date with relevant information (38%)
- and doing a hobby (37%).
Bad habits are also on the rise: screen time, eating, online shopping for unnecessary items and using drugs and alcohol to cope.
Learn more about mental health and emotions by clicking here.
Today marks the start of the 70th #MentalHealthWeek! As we continue navigating the challenges and changes caused by the #COVID19 pandemic, more Canadians are struggling with new or worsened mental health issues. You are not alone. pic.twitter.com/FaYRyuSFyz
— Patty Hajdu (@PattyHajdu) May 3, 2021
This week is Children’s #MentalHealthWeek. You are not alone. Children and youth who need to talk to someone about their mental health can connect with @KidsHelpPhone for 24/7 virtual, phone and text support. https://t.co/7SXtRDojWI #CMHW2021 pic.twitter.com/tk1H2tvB0u
— Ontario Ministry of Health (@ONThealth) May 3, 2021
#MentalHealthWeek https://t.co/9FE08zo8L1
— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) May 3, 2021