How many times have you told someone you are doing fine when, in reality, you are far from it?
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) wants people to get real about how they really feel.
New data released as part of Mental Health Week shows 75 per cent of Atlantic Canadians asked “how are you?” rely on “I’m fine, thanks” to express how they are doing.
But the same survey found 61 per cent of people in Atlantic Canada are feeling more negative emotions than positive ones, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think people are reluctant to have that honest, open conversation that fills that connection, even though we crave that real connection, so it’s a bit of a stumbling block for people,” said Christa Baldwin, executive director of the CMHA in New Brunswick.
As people practice physical distancing, they are isolated in their homes, missing out on family events and in-person activities.
But even as more Canadians turn to video conferencing or social media to stay connected, the number of people who reported feeling isolated climbed to 47 per cent form 39 per cent in less than a month.
“I think we’re very from a culture, a society where you want to be involved in family events and in-person activities and there’s a gap, there’s a feeling of loss attached to that,” said Baldwin.
Social connection is important, said Baldwin, who notes a lack of strong relationships has the same negative impact on life expectancy as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
But Baldwin said we do not need to be close to one another physically to feel close. She encouraged people to reach out to one another through telephone, video calls or other virtual platforms.
“You can engage in family activities, which is good for mental and physical health, so going for a walk or riding a bicycle, having a virtual dance part with friends,” she said.
“Also, acts of kindness certainly lift our spirits and those around us. Waving at a neighbour, delivering a self-care package or writing notes or letters to friends or family.”
During this stressful time, Baldwin said it is also important to practice intentional self-care.
You can find more resources on the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick’s website.
