The longer COVID-19 disrupts the economy, the more severe the impact on mental health
The manifold impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have pushed Canadians to the limits of their psychological endurance, with a significant portion of the strain stemming from long-running financial uncertainty.
In the latest edition of its Mental Health Index, Morneau Shepell reported consistent negative mental health readings among Canadians for the eighth consecutive month.
“The findings show that worsening psychological health, an increase in employment dissatisfaction, and extended mental strain continue to impact the mental wellbeing of Canadians,” Morneau Shepell said.
The Mental Health Index score as of November is at -11.1, which was only a minute improvement from October’s -11.4 level. Canadians were found to be languishing in terms of optimism (-12.9), anxiety (-12.5), depression (-12.5), work productivity (-11.1), and isolation (-11.1).
For perspective, the pre-2020 benchmark score for all of these metrics was 75.
“We’re at a pivotal point in navigating the pandemic,” said Stephen Liptrap, president and chief executive officer of Morneau Shepell. “On one hand, the recent news about potentially life-saving vaccines being administered in the first half of next year should bring Canadians some encouragement. On the other hand, we are also approaching some of the most difficult months of the year for many Canadians as we approach the holidays and winter months.”
These stresses have pushed around 24% of Canadians to consider drastic career changes, amid a continuous slowdown in the pace of employment recovery. This is despite their employers weathering the pandemic’s worst effects.
“Information overload will continue to be an issue in the coming months,” Liptrap said. “Employers cannot assume that all employees are feeling positive about the new pandemic-related developments and must continue to check in on their wellbeing to maintain a productive workforce.”
