How Long Commutes in North York and the GTA Affect Your Mental Health (and What You Can Do About It)

For many people living in North York and the Greater Toronto Area, commuting is simply part of daily life. Whether it’s sitting in traffic on the 401, waiting for the TTC, or juggling multiple bus and subway transfers, long commutes can add stress before the workday even begins. Over time, these daily challenges can have a real impact on both your mental health and overall well-being.

At Infinite Horizons Psychotherapy, we see first-hand how the demands of city living—especially commuting—contribute to anxiety, stress, and burnout. Our new North York therapy office was created with this reality in mind: making quality mental health support more accessible for people who are tired of battling long trips downtown. But enough about us, let's dive deeper into the the impacts of long commutes on your mental health.

The Mental Health Impact of Long Commutes

Research consistently shows that long commutes are linked to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and lower life satisfaction. In North York, this rings especially true given the city’s traffic congestion and overburdened transit system. Common effects include:

• Increased stress and anxiety: Delays, packed trains, and unpredictable travel times make it harder to feel calm and in control.

• Fatigue and burnout: Spending hours commuting each week leaves less time for rest, hobbies, and relationships.

• Social isolation: A long commute often means sometimes having to sacrifice your evening plans in order to rest or run errands, disconnecting from friends and family.

• Reduced productivity and focus: Starting the day drained from a frustrating commute can make work or school feel even harder.

Do any of these ring true to you?

When daily travel feels like a constant uphill battle, it’s no surprise that many North York residents report feeling emotionally exhausted before their day has even begun.

Making Your Commute More Enjoyable

While we can’t magically make traffic disappear or speed up TTC service, there are ways to make commuting a more positive experience:

• Turn your commute into “me time”: Listen to audiobooks, podcasts, or calming playlists. This can transform your travel into an opportunity for learning or relaxation.

• Practice mindfulness on the go: If you’re on transit, try short breathing exercises or mindfulness apps to reduce stress and feel grounded.

• Create a transition ritual: Use your commute to mentally shift gears. For example, write a short gratitude note on your phone before starting work or reflect on your day before heading home. Use this time to transition into or out of wherever you're heading.

• Connect with others: If possible, commute with a co-worker or friend. Having someone to chat with can make the trip feel shorter and less stressful.

• Reframe your mindset: Instead of seeing the commute as wasted time, think of it as a buffer between work and home life—a chance to reset.

How Therapy Can Help

If you find your commute is leaving you constantly drained, frustrated, or anxious, it may be worth exploring this in therapy. A therapist can help you:

• Build coping strategies to manage daily stress.

• Find ways to bring more balance into your week.

• Explore bigger-picture questions about your lifestyle, values, and career.

• Develop healthier routines that make the most of your limited personal time.

At Infinite Horizons Psychotherapy, we specialize in supporting folks who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout.

Therapy in North York: Closer to Home

We know that commuting is already exhausting—that’s why we’ve opened our North York office, so you don’t have to travel far for mental health support. Our team offers both in-person therapy in North York and online therapy across Ontario, giving you flexible options that fit into your life. We are available during the day, evening, and weekends to match your availability, and offer therapy sessions at various price points. We're here to make therapy as accessible as possible!

Take the Next Step

If your daily commute is leaving you stressed, anxious, or burnt out, you don’t have to keep pushing through alone. Therapy can provide the tools and support you need to feel more in control of your time and your well-being.

Did you know that we offer an Affordable Therapy Program? Sessions start at $60 for our standard rate but can offer rates as low as $30 per session. Even better, your first session is free!

📍 Connect with us online to get started. Book your first session today.

We can't wait to meet you!