Saskatchewanians feel anxious and crave real connection, but say they’re doing “fine”

Most people in Saskatchewan rely on shortcuts to describe their emotional state—even during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to new data released Monday by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) in partnership with Maru/matchbox, 73 per cent of those asked “how are you?” rely on “I’m fine, thanks” to express how they’re doing, despite the fact that people in Saskatchewan are feeling more negative emotions than positive ones these days (65 per cent negative versus 35 per cent positive). The data were released to mark Canada’s 69th annual Mental Health Week, which runs May 4 to 10.

Despite a pandemic-driven growth in video-conferencing and social media usage, Canadians are feeling more isolated than ever (up 12 points from 39 per cent to 47 per cent in less than one month) and crave real, meaningful connections. In fact, more than two-thirds of Saskatchewanians (68 per cent) report 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.”

Prior to the global pandemic, loneliness was already a major public health concern. People with weak or few social connections are at increased risk for anxiety, depression, anti-social behaviour and suicide. And a lack of strong relationships has the same negative impact on life expectancy as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Due to physical distancing measures, people are isolated in their homes, missing out on family events and in-person activities and it appears they’re feeling it. Half of Saskatchewan people are feeling anxious (50 per cent), and only 13 per cent are feeling happy. As we face social distancing measures, it’s important to note that people don’t need to be close to feel close.

“It doesn’t just feel good to connect—it’s actually good for everyone’s mental health,” says Phyllis O’connor, Executive Director, CMHA - Sask. Division.

Strong social networks lead to better self-esteem, coping mechanisms and a sense of well-being, and reduce depression and distress by providing emotional support, companionship and opportunities for meaningful social engagement.

During these times of social distancing, we