Statistics Canada recently surveyed people with long-term conditions and disabilities and found that their mental health was worse than before the pandemic. Almost half also reported that their overall health was worse than before. In a crowdsourcing survey, conducted between June 23rd and July 6th, participants were asked questions on their employment status, health, and economic circumstances during the pandemic. Statistics Canada says a recent survey found that physical distancing measures, losing a job, or caring for family members can lead to an increase in loneliness, stress, and anxiety. The study also found that COVID-19 can have a greater impact on vulnerable groups, particularly on their mental health.
At the beginning of the pandemic, restrictions resulted in limited availability or changes in service delivery for many health services and supports. Over of participants who needed at least one therapy or service for their condition did not receive it because of the pandemic.
Over half of the participants whose household income decreased, struggle to meet food and grocery needs. Female participants, at 60 per cent, were more likely than male participants, at 56 per cent, to be negatively affected in that way.
Stats Canada says that because of the way crowdsourcing data is collected, caution should be used in interpreting the findings, and no inferences about the overall Canadian population should be made based on these results.