A new survey has found that after more than a month of social distancing, more people are feeling anxious – but they are telling others they are feeling fine.
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has found 77 per cent of British Columbians who were asked how they were said they are okay, despite feeling more negative emotions than normal.
There is also a 12 per cent rise in people feeling isolated and craving real, meaningful connections with others. 66 per cent are finding social media and teleconferencing is not enough to meet their needs compared to in-person interactions.
"We are so accustomed to saying ‘fine’ when someone asks how we are – we think it is the appropriate and polite thing to say," says Julia Payson, CMHA Vernon and District Executive Director.
"I’ve tried to be honest with myself about how this has been a struggle for me. Some days are good, and other days are really hard."
Nearly half (47 per cent) of people in the province are feeling anxious, and only eight per cent say they feel happy.
Mental Health Week kicks off today, and the CMHA says this couldn't come at a better time.
"The focus of this year’s Mental Health Week is to promote social connection and the role it plays in good mental health," says Payson.
"Right now, we are all having to find new and creative ways to strengthen these social connections and promote our mental health. One first step, is to be real and honest when someone asks how you are, and to support those who can be honest with us."
To learn more about what the CMHA is offering during Mental Health Week, you can find more information on their website.
