May 11, 2021|Mental Health
We all know we have been living through extraordinary circumstances since early last year. But what we may not be aware of is how dramatically these unprecedented times have impacted our mental health. Or, if we are aware, we may not realize how intense or long-lasting the effects can be.
To better understand the implications of the global pandemic on our well-being, we must take a closer look at the current state of Canadian mental health. Only in analyzing data can we fully grasp just how severe the psychological fallout of COVID-19 has been, or how much support will be required to help Canadians recover and thrive once more.
So, I’ll be shining a spotlight on what we do know for certain regarding mental health in Canada (as it stands today).
What We Need to Understand About The Current State of Canadian Mental Health
1. More People Are Experiencing Suicidal Ideation
Suicidal ideation refers to serious, and often all-consuming, thoughts of harming oneself or taking one’s life. These thoughts often arise when a person becomes intensely overwhelmed by a particular situation or by feelings of hopelessness. Recently, a study revealed that one in every 10 Canadians has experienced recent thoughts or feelings of suicide, which is up from the usual 2.5 per cent before the pandemic occured.
This significant increase is a major signal of distress, and indicates declining mental health across the country. We must remember that every day, approximately 10 Canadians die by suicide— a number which could increase as a result of pandemic-related stress.
Fortunately, however, suicide is preventable with proper care and intervention.
2. Loneliness is a Significant Stressor
54 per cent of Canadians say being separated from their family and loved ones has been a major source of worry and concern since the onset of the pandemic. Furthermore, 21.3 per cent of Canadians say they have felt lonely occasionally or most of the time within the past week.
On the surface, loneliness may not seem like a major concern— but when we consider the fact that loneliness is linked to increased risk of many mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep problems and increased stress, we realize just how alarming these numbers really are.
Loneliness is without question one of the major contributing factors to mental illness in Canada at this time. By zeroing in on strategies for alleviating loneliness, the Canadian healthcare system and other organizations can better prevent a potential crisis.
3. Financial Insecurity is More Severe Than Ever
This is another important consideration when analyzing the current state of Canadian mental health. We know that nearly half of all Canadians (45 per cent) feel less financially secure since COVID-19 began and that more than half (55%) of unemployed Canadians say job loss is having a negative impact as the pandemic continues. This financial instability has far-reaching repercussions, with 20.4 per cent of Canadians reporting difficulty in paying expenses related to housing, food, transportation, clothing and other necessary costs.
Being in financial risk not only makes Canadians more susceptible to mental illness and other health concerns, but it makes them less likely to receive adequate care and support.
4. Younger Canadians are Most Vulnerable
You probably wouldn’t assume that young adults would be particularly susceptible to mental distress. We so often think of young people as being more adaptable and resilient, purely based on their age. But when it comes to the mental wellbeing of Canadians, this demographic is actually disproportionately affected.
To be more precise, 46 per cent of Canadians aged 18-34 say they are suffering from anxiety, depression or another mood disorder. Furthermore, 37.6 percent of children who considered themselves mentally healthy before the pandemic now report increased depression, and 38 per cent report an increase in anxiety.
These statistics show that it is not only young people with existing mental health conditions that are being impacted, but also those who would otherwise consider themselves to be emotionally and psychologically well.
5. Work-Life Balance is Becoming a Challenge
We know that a healthy work-life balance helps reduce stress and prevents burnout. It allows us to better nurture personal relationships and provides us with the time required to practice self-care.
Yet despite this, 25 per cent of Canadians say their work–life balance has worsened due to COVID-19, with 29 per cent parents of children under 18 feeling this way.
A lack of work-life balance is often the impetus behind declining mental health, and it can have lasting impacts not only on the individual, but their families and loved ones as well.
Should We Be Concerned About Post Pandemic Mental Health?
Based upon the available data, yes—absolutely. There are several proven indications that the mental wellbeing of Canadians is dwindling. We all have a role to play in raising awareness regarding this trend and in advocating for proper support.
How Can Canadians Access Support If They Are Experiencing Declining Mental Health?
Below are a few of the trusted mental health resources I recommend:
1. The National Alliance on Mental Illness
Who They Are
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a non-profit organization that offers a free helpline to those experiencing declining mental health (or to those who are concerned about someone who is struggling).
What They Do
Volunteers operating the NAMI helpline are able to answer questions, offer support and provide practical next steps and options for the future.
How to Reach Them
Call 800-950-NAMI (6264) or text 741-741.
2. Canadian Suicide Prevention Services
Who They Are
Crisis Services Canada (CSC) is a national network of existing distress, crisis and suicide prevention line services.
What They Do
They provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to be honest about thoughts of suicide, seek support, connect with additional resources, and learn proven coping strategies for the future.
How to Reach Them
Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645.
3. Wellness Together Canada
Who They Are
Wellness Together Canada is a mental health initiative created in response to an unprecedented rise in mental health and substance use concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with funding from the Government of Canada.
What They Do
Wellness Together Canada provides free support for mental health and substance use problems to people in Canada and Canadians living abroad.
How to Reach Them
Call 1-866-585-0445 (Adults) or 1-888-668-6810 (Youth). You can also text WELLNESS to 741741 (Adults) or 686868 (Youth) to connect with a trained crisis responder for support.
There is Hope
During challenging times, it is imperative that we shift our focus away from the things that are bothering us and do our best to remember there is always hope.
Try to remember that we all have strengths. What are yours? Maybe you’re extremely creative and love to paint. Maybe you’re a very adventurous person and you enjoy exploring new places. Whatever your personal strength is, consider how you can use it to connect with others and build more positive experiences.
Paint a picture and give it to a loved one. Explore a part of your city you’ve never seen before. Volunteer to watch a friend’s pet while they’re away. Anything that will make you feel like you have something to contribute and refocus your mind.
The more we reframe our way of thinking, remind ourselves of our value and strength, and connect with others who want to see us thrive, the more hopeful and healthy we become.
In the words of John Green, “There is hope—even when your brain tells you there isn’t”.