Youth Mental Health, A Mixed Landscape

According to Youth Mental Health Canada,

1 in 10 youth in this age group have seriously considered suicide.

Research in suicidal ideation signals another alarming statistic. According to Youth Mental Health Canada, 1 in 10 youth in this age group have seriously considered suicide. This fact underscores the urgent need for effective mental health interventions and support systems. Already, in the first six weeks of offering Chat Support, Telecare engaged a young person with lethal thoughts, means, and intentions of taking their life. We were able to direct local police to the person’s home where they intervened supportively.

Therapist Eric Bradford notes, “In my clinical experience working with teenagers, I have observed firsthand the 14-year-old who is so terrified of being perfect (in school, relationships, and beyond) that they have developed a diagnosable level of anxiety that paralyzes them from engaging in life. In the first fall of in-person school after the COVID-19 pandemic our office was flooded with referrals for teenagers with magnified avoidance tendencies who refused to attend in-person school anymore. The comfort of home and screens proved stronger than ever imagined.”

In contrast, Liam, a 19-year-old in Prince George, exemplifies the positive state of mental health. Liam actively participates in a youth group at his church which has nurtured a strong sense of community and belonging. His experience aligns with the 60% of kids who report feeling supported. Liam's proactive approach has helped him navigate the pressures of life at school, reducing his risk of developing anxiety or depressive symptoms.

Possible Causes of Mental Health Issues

Several factors contribute to the mental health challenges faced by Canadian youth. Social media plays a significant role, with studies indicating that excessive use can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. A report from the Journal of Youth and Adolescence found that youth who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more likely to experience mental health issues, including social anxiety. Moreover, in his book The Anxious Generation, author Jonathan Haidt argues persuasively that social media has created a generation bereft with social deprivation, sleep deprivation, attention deprivation, and addiction.

Additionally, academic pressure is a significant stressor. The competitive nature of high school and post-secondary education can lead to burnout and anxiety. Research from the Canadian Institute for Health Information highlights that students who feel pressured to achieve high grades are at a greater risk of developing mental health problems. This pressure can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and contribute to suicidal ideation among vulnerable youth. Students who turn to AI to fabricate assignments live with the anxiety of being found out.

A report from the Journal of Youth and Adolescence

found that youth who spend more than three hours a day

 on social media are more likely to experience

mental health issues, including social anxiety.



Positive Influences

On a more positive note, access to mental health resources online has improved in recent years, including 24/7 text and chat support services across Canada. Schools and universities are increasingly offering mental health services, including counselling and peer support programs, and provincial and federal governments now fund synchronous digital support such as Kids Help Phone. A study by Mental Health Research Canada found that youth who utilize these resources report lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Moreover, the growing awareness of mental health issues has led to a cultural shift in Canada, encouraging open discussions about mental well-being. This change is crucial in reducing stigma and promoting help-seeking behaviour among youth. Initiatives that promote mental health literacy in schools and churches can empower students to recognize the signs of mental health issues in themselves and their peers and seek support.

Access to mental health resources online

has improved in recent years, including 24/7

text and chat support services across Canada.

Conclusion

The mental health landscape for Canadian youth aged 16-20 is complex and affirms Telecare’s decision to launch Chat Support earlier this year. Already we have provided critical care for youth on the brink and helped save someone’s life. While many young people face significant mental health issues, including social anxiety, loneliness, and suicidal ideation, supportive ministries, like Telecare, offer hope.