Just as Canadians are experiencing pandemic fatigue after two long years, research suggests Canadians 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 feelings of empathy have eroded over the course of the pandemic, with only 13% of Canadians feeling empathetic, down markedly since the onset of the pandemic (from 23%).
Empathy is the ability to understand another’s perspective and feelings.
“The decline in empathy is concerning,” said 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 37% of Canadians are as worried about lost social connections (37%) and being separated from friends and family (39%) as they are about getting sick with COVID (39%).
Survey data shows 37% of Canadians 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,” said 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, through May 8, 2022. This year’s theme is the importance of empathy.
Learn more about mental health and empathy at www.mentalhealthweek.ca
Connect. If you or someone you love is struggling, please contact your local CMHA or visit the Government of Canada’s Wellness Together portal. If you are in crisis, please call 1-833-456-4566 toll free in Canada (1-866-277-3553 in Quebec) or dial 911.
