Beyond a Friendly Hello: Can Small Talk Tackle Canada’s Loneliness Epidemic?

TORONTO, ON – November 18, 2025

The Rising Tide of Isolation

Canada is facing a growing epidemic of loneliness. While often dismissed as a mere emotional state, studies are increasingly demonstrating the profound impact of social isolation on both mental and physical health. From increased risk of heart disease and stroke to accelerated cognitive decline and even premature mortality, the consequences are far-reaching. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue, forcing prolonged periods of physical distancing and disrupting established social networks. But even as restrictions ease, the feeling of disconnection persists for many Canadians.

Recent data indicates that over 10% of Canadians frequently feel lonely, a figure that has remained stubbornly consistent even post-pandemic. Certain demographics, including young adults, seniors, and those living alone, are particularly vulnerable. “There’s a pervasive sense of disconnection in modern life,” explains a mental health professional in Toronto. “People are more connected digitally than ever before, yet often feel profoundly alone.”

Good Earth & GenWell’s Simple Solution

This week, Good Earth Coffeehouse and Canadian charity GenWell are launching ‘Talk To A Stranger Week’ (November 24-30, 2025), an initiative designed to address this growing concern. The campaign encourages Canadians to engage in simple, everyday interactions with strangers – a friendly greeting, a brief chat while waiting in line, or a compliment to a passerby. The premise is surprisingly simple: even small acts of human connection can have a significant impact on well-being.

“We believe that fostering a sense of community starts with small interactions,” says Michael Going, CEO of Good Earth. “Our coffeehouses have always been designed as gathering places, and we want to encourage people to extend that sense of connection beyond their immediate circles.” GenWell's research suggests that saying “hello” to a stranger even once a week can measurably increase happiness levels. The charity’s 2021 Canadian Social Connection Survey, which surveyed over 3,800 Canadians, revealed that over 60% of participants felt lonely many times a week.

The Science Behind the Hello

The idea of intentionally striking up conversations with strangers might seem counterintuitive in an age where personal space and social boundaries are highly valued. However, research supports the notion that these interactions can be beneficial. Studies have shown that even brief encounters with strangers can trigger the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “bonding hormone,” which promotes feelings of trust and connection. Furthermore, engaging in small talk can help to reduce anxiety, boost self-esteem, and combat feelings of social isolation.

“People often overestimate the negative consequences of interacting with strangers,” says Dr. Gillian Sandstrom, a leading researcher on the psychology of kindness. “We tend to assume that others will be indifferent or even hostile, but in reality, most people are receptive to friendly gestures.” Dr. Sandstrom’s work has demonstrated that commuters who engaged in brief chats with strangers reported more positive experiences than those who sat quietly. “These interactions can be surprisingly uplifting,” she says.

Beyond a Marketing Ploy: Good Earth’s Community Focus

While many brands are quick to latch onto social causes for marketing purposes, Good Earth’s commitment to community engagement appears to be deeply ingrained in its company culture. For over three decades, the Canadian coffeehouse chain has prioritized creating welcoming spaces and supporting local initiatives. From ethical sourcing and sustainable practices to partnerships with local charities and organizations, the company has consistently demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility.

The partnership with GenWell builds on this foundation. Good Earth is leveraging its network of over 50 locations across Canada to promote ‘Talk To A Stranger Week’ through in-store signage, social media campaigns, and community events. The company is also offering a free brewed coffee to customers who participate in the initiative, further incentivizing connection. “We see this as more than just a marketing campaign,” says Nan Eskenazi, founder of Good Earth. “It’s an opportunity to create a ripple effect of kindness and connection.” The coffeehouse chain is actively expanding, with new locations planned in Ontario, and hopes to create a network of spaces for connection across the country.

A National Conversation & The Future of Connection

The ‘Talk To A Stranger Week’ initiative is sparking a broader conversation about the importance of social connection and the role individuals and communities can play in addressing loneliness. Other organizations, such as the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing, and the Canadian Alliance for Social Connection and Health are also working to promote social connectedness through various programs and initiatives. There is growing recognition that tackling loneliness requires a multifaceted approach, involving government policies, community-based programs, and individual actions.

The success of ‘Talk To A Stranger Week’ remains to be seen, but the initiative represents a hopeful step towards fostering a more connected and compassionate society. “It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things can make the biggest difference,” says a member of a local community group in Toronto. “A friendly hello, a kind word, a moment of genuine connection – these are the things that truly make life meaningful.”