Manitobans are feeling more anxious and want deeper connections but are having a hard time talking about it.

Canadian Mental Health Asociation (CMHA) is encouraging Manitobans to find ways to connect with others as part of Mental Health Week.

Sixty-eight per cent of Manitobans say they are "craving meaningful connections" in their day-to-day life. The mental health organization is attributing this in part to a large increase in social media consumption and lack of personal social connection.

"The accumulation of all of the little connections won’t just feel good —it’s actually good for everyone’s mental health."

CMHA says that many Canadians feel isolated in their day-to-day life and even more so now during the pandemic. Before the pandemic, CMHA polled that 39 per cent of Canadians were feeling isolated, and during the pandemic, 47 per cent of people are feeling isolated.

ing letters or waving hi to neighbours.

"The accumulation of all of the little connections won’t just feel good —it’s actually good for everyone’s mental health."

CMHA says that strong social networks lead to"self-esteem, coping mechanisms and a sense of well-being, and reduce depression and distress by providing emotional support." They add that meaningful engagement and companionship are important for mental health.