Workplace loneliness and social isolation are rising, and the impact on mental health, engagement, and productivity is significant. In fact, the World Health Organization declared loneliness a global health concern in 2023, including in workplace settings. That’s why the Canadian Mental Health Association’s 2026 Mental Health Week theme is “Come Together, Canada,” a call to strengthen connection as a foundation of mental well-being.
Throughout Mental Health Week (May 4–10), CPA Assist will be sharing personal reflections from the CPA Assist team and CPA Assist Committee on what connection means and how it shows up in everyday moments. Follow along on CPA Assist’s LinkedIn page to read, reflect, and join the conversation.
Why connection matters at work
Strong social connection is a basic human need and a key driver of workplace health. Research shows that meaningful connections at work are linked to:
- Higher employee well-being and resilience
- Increased engagement, creativity, and collaboration
- Lower stress, burnout, and absenteeism
- Stronger retention and organizational performance
When employees feel connected, teams are more productive, inclusive, and better equipped to navigate change.
The reality: Disconnection is growing
Several workplace trends, including hybrid work, digital-first communication, siloed teams, heavy workloads, and blurred work–life boundaries are contributing to increased isolation.
Key Canadian workplace statistics:
- 36% of Canadian workers report feeling isolated at work (vs. 27% globally)
- 54% of Gen Z workers (ages 18–24) say they feel lonely at work some of the time—three times more than baby boomers
- 38% of Canadians feel their workload is unreasonable or poorly managed
- 21% do not feel their workplace is supportive
- 45% lack workplace relationships they trust
- Only 37% of managers report receiving training to support mental health or lead distributed teams
- 76% of employees feel their managers lack sufficient training in this area
What connected workplaces do differently
Organizations that successfully address workplace loneliness intentionally design cultures that prioritize people, not just productivity. Effective strategies include:
- Purposeful collaboration (using in‑person time for connection, not just tasks)
- Regular virtual social moments to maintain human connection
- Investments in manager training focused on well‑being and psychological safety
- Support for employee growth through learning and development
- Autonomy and flexibility for team members, which are shown to significantly reduce loneliness
The role of leaders
Connection isn’t about where people work, it’s about the quality of relationships at work. Leaders play a critical role by:
- Holding regular, well‑being–focused one‑on‑one check-ins
- Being accessible and open to conversations beyond deliverables
- Recognizing and celebrating contributions
- Creating space for non‑work-related team bonding
When workplaces prioritize connection, employees—and organizations—are better positioned to thrive.
CPA Assist provides confidential counselling services, and 24/7 crisis support to Alberta, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories and Nunavut CPAs, candidates, and their immediate families. To book an appointment through CPA Assist call 1-855-596-4222. For more information about upcoming webinars and events, visit cpa-assist.ca.
