Rising cost of living, hybrid work, lack of social connections contribute to deteriorating mental health in young Canadians

A recent report from the Toronto Foundation highlights that young adults in Toronto are facing worsening mental health, severe financial stress and increased social isolation compared to older age groups. The data reveals that 45% of 20-somethings rated their mental health as fair or poor, and 44% felt lonely at least three days a week in 2023, with these issues mirroring the levels seen during the pandemic's first year. Additionally, the report found a link between higher screen time and symptoms of depression and anxiety, though the direction of causality remains unclear.