The Loneliness Epidemic in Canada: Building Connection for a Fulfilled Life
- Julie Petrynko
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Feeling lonely, disconnected and even isolated? Feel like maybe you’re missing out on something important in life? Is there a part of you that tells you there is something wrong with you because you are feeling lonely? How you are feeling is not uncommon.
How Many Canadians are Feeling Lonely?
In September 2021, Statistics Canada conducted a Canadian Social Survey to collect information on loneliness and the results were very significant, but also somehow not that surprising.
23% of Canadians between the ages of 15 and 25 report that they often or always feel lonely & on average 13% of ALL Canadians report often or always feeling lonely.
And, before you tell me that if you only had a partner then loneliness would be resolved, 7% of those in committed relationships also experience chronic loneliness.
What are the Impacts of Loneliness on People?
The World Health Organization is aware of the negative impacts of loneliness and feelings of isolation. Documented studies show evidence of increased risk of…
Heart disease and stroke.
Type 2 diabetes.
Depression and anxiety.
Suicidality and self-harm.
Dementia.
Early Death.
So...not great news! And since we don’t need anymore bad news in the world, I am about to share the “what we can do about this” part of this post.
The World Health Organization, recognizing the incredible impacts loneliness can have on individuals and the world, has formed the WHO Commission on Social Connection. As a part of this Commission, policies and political advocacy, public campaigns worldwide and raising funds to support awareness is core. As a part of this big picture project, the Commission has developed a series available on YouTube, to help build awareness and connection. Real people, sharing their real experiences and journeys with loneliness. Worth watching.
What we are learning is that the power of connection is far more meaningful than we would have guessed. I’m talking about simple, authentic connections. Some reflective questions to ask yourself….
Who really gets me?
Who really knows what I’m going through right now?
Who can I rely on to respond in a way that makes me feel heard and that I matter?
How do I feel while engaging with the closest people in my life?
When do I feel the most peace in life?
What do I look forward to doing in my alone time?
If I could design a perfect day in my life, what would that look like?
What Can I do if I am Struggling with Loneliness?
If you are struggling with chronic loneliness, connection is the antidote. Connection with others, ourselves and with nature are three areas of focus I recommend considering. Instead of setting expectations to connect too high, take the time to assess how connected you feel now in life and where and how you can expand your access to connection. Building more connection can be simple.
What could connection with others look like?
Building connections with other people can feel daunting and scary. I think we’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn’t carry at least some fear of being rejected socially. But, connection can be just a little vulnerable. It can involve holding the door open for others, saying good morning to strangers, smiling, or making eye contact.
Connection can also be created through being in service to others. That can feel safer for some of us (ummmm….hello therapist friends). Maybe service could mean volunteer work or opportunities to be in service already exist in your life.
Connection can be social. It can be trying a new hobby or joining a community club. What do you enjoy or think you might enjoy? Chances are, people you would connect well with will be there doing the thing they also enjoy. Could it be Creative? Athletic? Learning Based?
How can I connect more with myself?
Connection with ourselves is also important. When do you feel in tune with yourself? (hint…it’s likely not on TikTok or Instagram or online shopping). Connection with ourselves happens during activities like reading, gardening, solo sports like running or hiking, creating, or building. Alone does not have to mean Lonely.
How can being in nature be good for us?
I also like to encourage connection with nature. When is the last time you stopped and soaked in nature…really been IN nature, quiet and serene, observing the sights, smells, feelings, sounds around you?
If you are a fellow Sea to Sky resident, we are extremely lucky to have access to nature…within walking distance for most of us. But, I am guessing that even our city-dwelling friends have a tree outside their window or park nearby. Spend time with nature and just observe what happens.
My dog, Molly, is a special sort of dog. Daily, she insists (that’s part of her specialness) that I practice a “mindful moment” with her. On our morning adventure walk, she picks a spot she likes (sunshine with a view is preferable) and we pause; We listen to the sounds, we feel the temperature and moisture of the air on our skin, we observe the views around us, and we inhale the fresh smells of dirt and trees. Most days, it is my most content and fulfilling few minutes of the day. Even without an insistent dog, stopping for a minute or two a day, and truly being in the moment, is highly recommended.
So many people are feeling alone, disconnected, and isolated and so much of the time it is not an experience that is visible, making loneliness further isolating. It matters to say “hi” or “good morning”. It matters to offer a smile. It matters to invite others to engage with you. It matters to disconnect from your phone and enjoy music or a book. It matters to stop and connect with your surroundings. It matters to be brave enough to connect.
Please reach out to a counsellor for support. We are great listeners and understand what you are feeling. We can offer support and encouragement on a route to a more connected life.
About the Author
Julie Petrynko brings 25 years of experience in the helping field as an educator, counsellor, and clinical supervisor. Julie started private practice counselling in 2012 and now owns and operates Peak Experience Counselling in beautiful Squamish, BC. She is very experienced working with individual adults and youth as well as couples. Julie is also enthusiastic about her work as a clinical supervisor and offers guidance for others entering and working in the helping profession. She offers compassion, wisdom, and acceptance. Julie shows up authentically, which helps her clients feel at home in session and safe showing up as their most genuine selves.
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