COVID-19 Triggers an Increase in Mental Health Crisis: Canadian National Survey Data

CAMH – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health conducted a national survey in Canada to understand how COVID-19 has had an impact on the mental health and substance use in Canadians. Their most recent survey data was published on January 7, 2022, which included over a 1000 Canadians over the age of 18 years. 

Similar to other countries around the world, Canada is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases since the emergence of the Omicron variant. Highest case numbers are being registered, coast to coast in Canada. PCR testing sites have been overwhelmed and so came the increase in need of the rapid antigen testing kits. 

With this increase in COVID-19 cases, Canadian’s level of anxiety, depression and loneliness were recorded to be at the highest levels since the beginning of the pandemic. 

The survey found 25.1% of Canadians reporting an experience of moderate to severe anxiety, with 33.5% between the ages of 18-39 and majority being of the female sex. Furthermore, 64.3% reported being very worried about finances and 34% reported as having lost jobs. 

Not only are Canadians reporting high levels of anxiousness, but 24.10% reported feeling lonely of which a record high of 56.7% reporting to be very worried about finances. Consequently, a total of 22.30% of Canadians also reported feeling depressed with 33% reporting to have lost jobs. 

Anxiety, loneliness, and depression seem to be more common in Canadians between the ages of 18-39 and of the female sex. 

Furthermore, 25.40% reported engaging in heavy alcohol consumption with majority being of the male sex and 32.3% reporting worry related to finances.  

In these difficult times, remember you are not alone, remember to be kind to others and remember to take time to reflect. 

If you are experiencing any mental health problems, please do not be afraid to seek help from a healthcare professional.