More than half of Canadians experiencing mental health issues during COVID-19
Interestingly, the Sun Life survey reveals COVID-19 is having a greater negative impact on the mental health of women (62%) compared to men (49%). As to what Canadians feel is contributing to their mental health challenges, a majority cite social isolation (66%). Other factors that are having an impact include:
- Concern for loved ones (57%)
- Fear of contracting COVID-19 (56%)
- Financial concerns (51%)
"The COVID-19 pandemic is the most serious public health emergency of our lifetime," said
Close to 60% of Canadians whose mental health has been negatively impacted said they are not receiving treatment or social support. When they were asked what barriers were stopping them from receiving support for their mental health, they listed:
- I can't afford it (22%)
- I don't know where to go or who to ask for help (17%)
- I am embarrassed to ask for help (12%)
"During the pandemic people are feeling a mix of emotions including anxiety, stress, fear and nervousness," said Dr.
- Look to see what extended health care benefits your employer offers, including Employee and Family Assistance Programs.
- Take advantage of free platforms such as
Lumino Health , a tool that helps you search for trusted health care providers and offers health related resources. - If you are living alone and are not physically vulnerable, be sure to get out at least once a day while following the recommended precautions.
- If you are living with other family members, give yourself permission to set some time for yourself. We all need some alone time.
- Stay connected to your support network using virtual technology and be honest about how you're feeling.
For information and resources available to support mental wellness, visit our COVID-19 website: www.sunlife.ca/ca/COVID-19.
About the survey
The survey is based on findings of an Ipsos poll conducted
The precision of Ipsos online polls is measured using a credibility interval. In this case, the poll is accurate to within +/- 3.5% at 95% confidence level had all Canadian adults been polled. All sample surveys and polls may be subject to other sources of error, including, but not limited to methodological change, coverage error and measurement error.
About Sun Life
Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing insurance, wealth and asset management solutions to individual and corporate Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including
Note to editors: All figures in Canadian dollars
Media Relations Contact:
Meredith Mundick
Manager, Corporate Communications
T. 416-979-4048
meredith.mundick@sunlife.com
SOURCE
© Canada Newswire, source