Maintaining Connections in a Virtual World

Navigating the realities of an ongoing pandemic has been challenging for all of us. It has led to increases in stress associated with health, finances, relationships and more. Feelings of loneliness and isolation have become increasingly common, affecting our mood, mental health, and overall quality of life. A survey on COVID-19 and mental health determined that 25% of Canadians aged 18 and older screened positive for symptoms of depression, anxiety or PTSD. In addition, 77% of these people reported feelings of loneliness or isolation, and 48% reported challenges in personal relationships.


For people with cancer, there has been even more caution around maintaining physical distancing to reduce transmission and this could leave you to deal with your diagnosis and treatment without loved ones by your side. Having a support system has been shown to be especially critical during these times and maintaining relationships in a primarily virtual world has required us to get more creative with social activities than ever before.


Below is a list of fun ideas on how to feel more connected and use virtual platforms to our advantage:



  • Plan a Zoom game night with friends or family! Bingo, Heads up, Pictionary and Scattegories are all great options.

  • Join online group sessions, such as our yoga or mindfulness classes: https://ccnmicc.ca/programs-events

  • Take an online cooking or baking class. Check out Cozymeal for interactive experiences with chefs from all around the world, featuring various cuisines

  • Frequently check in with loved ones through phone or video calls. Simply asking how their day is can go a long way!

  • Organize a virtual coffee date.

  • Go for outdoor walks while maintaining a physical distance. This is also a great way to get our daily dose of vitamin D.

  • Have a movie night using the website Teleparty.

  • Throw a virtual paint night! Select your artwork, receive your tools and get painting with an instructor using this platform: https://www.freshpaintstudio.ca/buy-paint-night-experience/

  • Visit a museum virtually. Travel from the comfort of your own couch and absorb some history. Many museums have made themselves accessible virtually, like the British Museum for example: https://britishmuseum.withgoogle.com/


Author: Nadia Antonangeli, CCNM Integrative Cancer Centre Intern