“Highlights key data from the Mental Health and Substance Use During COVID-19: Spotlight on Youth, Older Adults & Stigma report. Also provides tips and resources to help people living in Canada cope with stress, anxiety and substance use during the pandemic.”

Key findings from the report:

• The level of mental health and substance use concerns across Canada remains high, particularly for people with past and current substance use concerns.
• Among youth (16-24), 45 per cent report moderate to severe anxiety symptoms, and about 40 per cent of those who use alcohol and/or cannabis report increased use in the past month and a reduced ability to handle pandemic stress.
• By comparison, older adults (65+) show signs of better mental health and less problematic substance use as well as stronger coping skills.
• Perceived stigma toward depression is still common and even more prevalent for alcohol use disorders.
• Continued investments in youth mental health and substance use supports, resilience among older adults, and (further) stigma reduction efforts are needed.

Find more from Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) (Canada, January 2022)