Mental Health Week | May 4-10

Apr 23, 2026

Technology means we can connect instantly with anyone, anywhere. And yet, people in Canada are struggling with loneliness. As we spend more time online, this Mental Health Week the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington (CMHA WW) is asking: what does it mean for our mental health?

Youth are the loneliest of all age groups: almost 1 in 5 youth (ages 16–24) report feeling lonely often or always. At the same time, they are the heaviest users of social media and digital tools. Young people are at the centre of the issue, but they’re not alone in feeling lonely.

Nearly all people in Canada are connected to the internet, and about 8 in 10 use social media, many spending hours every day online. Meanwhile about 5 million people in Canada (13%) report feeling lonely often or always. Loneliness is linked to anxiety, depression, substance use, and disengagement.

“Connecting with others helps counter loneliness and supports our mental health—but the way we connect makes a difference,” says Helen Fishburn, CEO CMHA WW. “Spending more time online doesn’t always translate into feeling more connected.”

Statistics Canada data (2025) show that virtual connection alone is not enough. People who rely only on virtual connection with family and friends are more likely to feel lonely. Nearly 1 in 4 (24%) people who connect only online are frequently lonely, compared to 15% of those who connect both in person and virtually.

“Technology can support connection, but it can’t take the place of in-person interaction, which is vital for our mental health,” said Fishburn. “Events like the Run for Women offer an excellent chance to connect with our community in nature and foster meaningful, human connection for everyone.”

For Mental Health Week (May 4–10), CMHA’s Come Together, Canada campaign encourages people across the country to connect for real with one another. Join the Shoppers Run for Women in support of CMHA Waterloo Wellington, what better way to connect with our community on Saturday May 9th for a 5km walk/run, 10km walk/run or a 1km Little Steps for Children under 12 at Conestoga College, Doon Campus. Because connection strengthens mental health. For more information on the power and science of human connection, visit: mentalhealthweek.ca.