A Generation at Risk: How to Support Young Worker Mental Health

It’s well established that having a psychological health and safety program in place is essential for your employees and your business.

However, a recent report, A Generation at Risk: The State of Youth Mental Health in Canada, released by Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC) puts a fine point on how important mental health support in the workplace is to young workers. 

In September 2025, MHRC, in collaboration with Greenshield Canada, surveyed more than 2,700 Canadians 16 and older, with more than 2,200 respondents aged 16 and 29. At the time the survey was conducted, many were starting a new school year, international conflicts related to tariffs and trade were underway. Canada was experiencing tremendous heatwaves and wildfires, and, just as they are now, economic and geopolitical realities were weighing heavily on most of us.

Young workers need mental health support more than ever

The study revealed that 4.6 million youth require mental health support each year and highlighted the factors impacting this increase. The state of the world and the economy are causing young Canadians to feel increased rates of anxiety for reasons including job insecurity and lack of hope for their financial future.