A Nanos Research poll, conducted on behalf of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), has found that many people in Canada have seen their stress levels double since the onset of COVID-19.
“The number of participants who reported feeling stressed regularly or all the time has more than doubled since the onset of COVID-19, with fears over physical well-being and personal finances cited as the primary reasons. They are also aware of a decline in their mental health, with nearly 40 per cent reporting that their mental health is worse or somewhat worse than before the outbreak. But, despite their self-awareness, more than three in four people report that, over the last month, they have almost never or never sought mental health information online,” said the Commission in a news release.
The survey of 1,049 Canadian residents was conducted between April 25 and 27 .
“The ‘I’m fine’ theme of this year’s Mental Health Week captures the key message of this poll,” said Louise Bradley, president and CEO of the MHCC.
“When we say we are ‘fine,’ we may not always mean it. I hope this survey reminds everyone that it’s normal to feel stressed, anxious, or preoccupied during this outbreak. There is no shame in admitting as much, and there is certainly no shame in taking advantage of all the resources at your disposal to help you feel better.
“We must not only fight the virus. We’ve also got to fight the stigma that is likely preventing people from feeling comfortable seeking help and support. The more we invest in our wellness now, the better off we will be on the other side of COVID-19.”
The Commission said more online mental health resources than ever are available right now, and the list is growing. The MHCC’s COVID-19 Resource Hub includes curated tips, guides, and other tools to help improve mental health during the outbreak. The federal government has also recently launched its Wellness Together Canada portal to provide mental health resources and connect people with the support they need, it added.
