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CMHA and UBC release new data on empathy and challenged relationships

May 2, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Only 12% of Ontarians are feeling empathetic, down markedly from two years ago

CMHA and UBC release new data on empathy and challenged relationships

Brampton (ON), May 2, 2022 – Just as Ontarians are experiencing pandemic fatigue after two long years, research suggests that Ontarians may also be experiencing “empathy fatigue.” The latest survey conducted by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and UBC researchers, Assessing the Impacts of COVID-19 on Mental Health, shows that feelings of empathy have eroded over the course of the pandemic, with only 12% of Ontarians feeling empathetic, down markedly since the onset of the pandemic from 26%.

Empathy is the ability to understand another’s perspective and feelings.

“The decline in empathy that we are seeing is concerning,” says Margaret Eaton, National CEO, CMHA. “If we are to resolve our conflicts in relationships, in society and globally, we need to understand one another, even when we don’t agree.”

The CMHA/UBC survey also reveals that 38% of Ontarians are worried about lost social connections, 39% about being separated from friends and family, and 41% about getting sick with COVID.

CMHA/UBC data released in March 2022 shows that 39% of Ontarians have experienced a decline in their mental health since the start of the pandemic.

“The deterioration of social relationships that we see in the data comes at a time when we need each other more than ever,” says Dr. Emily Jenkins, UBC professor who co-led the research. “Empathy is essential not only for building positive and healthy relationships, but also for reducing divisions between people, and in our communities. And the good news is, it is an emotional response that can be cultivated.”

The release of these data on empathy and strained relationships couldn’t be timelier as it coincides with the 71st annual Mental Health Week, May 2-8, 2022.This year’s theme is the importance of empathy.

“Empathy is so important for human connection, and human connection is more important now than ever. With so many people suffering loss, isolation, grief, sickness and uncertainty during the pandemic, mental health is something that must be supported. By having empathy for those around us, we may help others find the strength they need to seek solutions that can change their day-to-day life for the better,” said David Smith, CEO, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Peel Dufferin.

Mental Health Week is sponsored by Major Sponsor Beneva as well as The Medicine Shoppe, Workplace Strategies for Mental Health (Canada Life) and Not Myself Today. To get involved, you can:

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Peel Dufferin Branch offers services to people experiencing challenges in addictions and mental health, those in crisis, those navigating the court systems, people who are homeless or facing imminent homelessness, and family and caregivers. www.cmhapeeldufferin.ca.

CMHA Peel Dufferin champions good mental health for everyone and supports the full participation of those with mental illness and addictions in the life of the community.

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For more information please contact:

Siobhan Kukolic
Communications Officer
416-521-5387
kukolics@cmhapeel.ca

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