Finding Connection Through It All: Shawn’s Story 

May 6, 2026

Growing up in and out of foster care, Shawn was never anywhere long enough to form meaningful connections. For years, he struggled with loneliness, anxiety, and depression, all of which made connecting with others more complicated.

To make matters worse, in 2011, Shawn was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to parts of the body like the joints, skin, kidneys, and heart.   

Pushed out of work due to chronic pain and fatigue, Shawn turned to prescription pills and alcohol. As his substance use increased, things started to unravel.  He did the only thing he knew; he withdrew, further isolating from his friends and family.   

Fear of rejection and not knowing how to connect made reaching out seem impossible. Shawn isn’t alone in this.   

About 5 million people in Canada (13%) report feeling lonely often or always. And for many, loneliness is compounded by barriers that make connection harder.  

People with disabilities and those living on low incomes or in poverty are more vulnerable to loneliness. Barriers such mobility limitations, discrimination and stigma, and physical and mental health challenges can reduce opportunities for social connection. People with substance use health and addiction challenges are also more likely to experience loneliness. 

It wasn’t until Shawn hit rock bottom that his life started to shift. Evicted from his apartment right before Christmas, Shawn was homeless and alone in the middle of winter. He was desperate, and had nowhere to turn, but a simple conversation with a stranger made the difference. The man pointed Shawn to a local mental health agency, where there was a bed available.   

“My life turned from one of hopelessness and despair, to hope, promise and anticipation. If it wasn’t for that stranger, I would have been on the streets, drinking myself to death.” 

 Shawn was connected to affordable housing designed for seniors, low-income people and people with disabilities.

Connection has been everything for Shawn. 

“I couldn’t have accomplished as much as I did if it wasn’t for [my community] conversing with me and never making me feel ‘less than.’”  

Feeling truly seen and heard can be transformative. With a new lease on life and a good support network, Shawn is working on his recovery. He feels optimistic about the future. Connection made it possible.   

To learn more about the importance of social connection and ways to connect, visit mentalhealthweek.ca.