A recent national survey by Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC), conducted in August 2025 in partnership with Pollara Strategic Insights, sheds light on the evolving mental health landscape in Canada. The poll surveyed 4,666 adult Canadians and, with weighting for age, gender, and region, provides data that is accurate to within ±1.4 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Major Findings

  • AI Tools and Mental Health Support
    Nearly 1 in 10 Canadians have turned to artificial intelligence (AI) tools for help with mental health. Among those who use them, about 84% report they are helpful. However, only 17% of the general population trusts AI tools for mental health assistance—highlighting a distinction between user experience and broader perception. 
  • Sexual & Reproductive Health (SRH) & Mental Well-Being
    Challenges such as infertility, unplanned pregnancy, and societal stigma are strongly associated with mental health struggles. People with SRH issues are nearly twice as likely to experience depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation. Many in this group say they have limited emotional support. 
  • Caregiving Burden
    One in five Canadians (20%) provide unpaid care, most often for older adults. More than half of these caregivers, approximately 53%, report receiving no support for their caregiving responsibilities.

  • Opioid Use & Related Mental Health Risks
    Around 13% of Canadians say they used opioids in the past year, primarily for pain management. Among this group, nearly 29% report experiencing suicidal thoughts, compared to 11% in those who did not use opioids. Substance dependency and unmet mental health needs are also more common in this group.

    Additional Insights

  • A strong sense of belonging to Canada is correlated with better mental health outcomes. Canadians who report feeling connected tend to show lower levels of anxiety and depression, and also fewer financial worries than those with weaker ties. 
  • Seasonal trends continue to show some improvement in mental health measures during the summer months. Nonetheless, pressures from economic hardship (especially the cost of living) and geopolitical concerns—such as Canada–U.S. relations—remain significant stressors for many.

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