A new survey suggests Canadians are feeling increasingly disconnected in today’s digital world and many in BC are reconnecting over shared meals.
The survey, commissioned by Denny’s and conducted by Canadian research firm Leger, found that 85% of British Columbians believe sharing a meal is one of the best ways to connect with others.
Across the country, 87% of Canadians surveyed agreed that sitting down for a meal has become more important than ever as more of daily life moves online.
The report points to the decline of traditional “third places,” the casual community gathering spots outside of home and work where people once spent more time connecting face-to-face.
Restaurants, cafes and diners continue to fill some of that role, with 60% of Canadians saying they often turn to those spaces when looking for meaningful in-person connection.
The survey also found that 80% of Canadians feel genuine in-person connection is becoming harder to find, while 76% wish they had more time to spend with loved ones face-to-face.
More than half of British Columbians surveyed also said they wish there were more places in their communities where people could casually connect with others.
Beyond socializing, many respondents linked in-person connection to better mental health and overall wellbeing. Nearly one in five Canadians surveyed said spending time with others in person helps boost their mood and mental health.
For many on Vancouver Island, the findings may not come as much of a surprise.
Local diners and restaurants have long been gathering spots for everything from weekend breakfasts and coffee meetups to post-game meals and late-night conversations.
Greater Victoria currently has two Denny’s locations, including one on Douglas Street at the former Shark Club location and another in Colwood along Island Highway near Thetis Lake.
The online survey included 1,518 Canadians aged 18 and older and was conducted between April 1st and April 3rd. According to Leger, a probability sample of the same size would have a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
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The need for connection is not unique to Victoria. Around the world, loneliness has become such a significant social issue that countries such as England and Japan have appointed ministers responsible for addressing it. People are increasingly disconnected from one another, despite living closer together than ever before.
The encouraging news is that there is a simple solution: Let’s Talk
The problem is not that people don't want connection. Most people do. The problem is that it isn't socially comfortable to walk up to a stranger and ask, "Do you want to have a conversation with me?"
That is why Let’s Talk Health Society was created—to remove the barriers to conversation.
We now have three places in Victoria where people can go knowing there will be others who want to have conversation:
☕ Caffe Fantastico (Quadra Village) — Fridays, 4:00–6:00 PM
☕ Murchies (Downtown) — Saturdays, 10:00 AM–Noon
☕ Heslaa Tea — Sundays, 3:00–5:00 PM (temporarily closed for renovations but returning soon)
We'll also have Let’s Talk conversation areas and signage at the Langford FIFA Watch Party from June 11 to July 19.
Research has shown that conversation and eye contact affect our brains and bodies. They increase oxytocin and other feel-good hormones, reduce stress and cortisol, improve well-being, and help create stronger communities. Studies have also found that communities with higher levels of social connection and trust experience significantly lower levels of crime, particularly violent crime.
You can help expand this movement. Ask your favourite restaurant or café to make Let’s Talk cards available. A simple card placed on a table lets others know that you want to have conversation, removing the uncertainty that prevents many connections from ever beginning.
Print the cards at lets-talk.live, or contact me at jennie@lets-talk.live
