A Generation at Risk :

The State of Youth Mental Health in Canada

PARTNERS IN ACTION

This report was made possible through the dedicated collaboration of several key organizations, including Kids Help Phone, Jack.org, Aire Ouverte, the National Association of Friendship Centres, Strongest Families Institute, Youth in Mind Foundation, and Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario. Their data, insights, and continued support were essential in shaping this comprehensive report, and we are grateful for their contributions.

A special thank you goes to Bell Let’s Talk for commissioning this report and for their unwavering commitment to prioritizing youth mental health across the country.

A Generation at Risk: The State of Youth Mental Health in Canada is the first comprehensive and collaborative national report of its kind to be released in at least five years.

Created in partnership with Bell Let’s Talk and several mental health organizations, this report provides an unprecedented look into the state of youth mental health across Canada. It combines data from national polling, interviews with Canadian youth, and input from key mental health providers to deliver a clear and actionable picture to improve youth mental health.

Key Findings

Evidence-based research and lived experience voices have come together in A Generation at Risk to help us better understand the youth mental health crisis. Here are three key takeaways:

  • Declining Mental Health: Youth mental health is in serious decline, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. The report highlights a disturbing trend that is particularly pronounced among marginalized groups such as 2SLGBTQI+ communities, newcomers, and Indigenous youth.

  • Service Gaps and Access Barriers: While 20% of youth accessed mental health services last year, an additional 9% remain in need of care but are not receiving it. The report stresses the need for more equitable access to mental health services and highlights the importance of early intervention and mental health literacy in reducing long-term impacts.

  • Collaborative Action: The report offers evidence-based recommendations to improve youth mental health by enhancing prevention efforts, improving the quality of mental health services, and expanding access. By focusing on these areas, we can work towards creating a better future for youth across Canada.

Together, we can create positive change for youth mental health in Canada.