The Issue
Between 2021 – 2022, the rates of children seeing physicians regarding mental health disorders increased. Since then, rates have slightly declined.
It is important for parents, guardians, and educators to acknowledge and understand how poor mental health affects children and how they can be aware of the signs and steps to take further action.
It is proven that healthy social emotional development within early years sets the foundation for youth mental health resilience and regulation throughout their life. Children who are psychologically healthy have a higher chance of enjoying life and performing well within the classroom, home, and society.
The Statistics
An estimated 1 in 5 youth in Ontario has experienced or will experience a mental health challenge in their lifetime.
Mental illness affects 1.2 million Canadian children and youth, by age 25, an estimate 1 in 5 Canadians are diagnosed with a mental illness, 70% experience symptoms before the age of 18.
