A surge in youth contacting Kids Help Phone in the North for mental health support, including thoughts of suicide, has reached a record high, the non-profit organization reports. The number of calls has been steadily rising each year since the onset of the pandemic, with a significant 24% increase nationwide this year. Notably, the Yukon experienced a 64% spike, while the Northwest Territories and Nunavut saw increases of 25% and 17%, respectively, during the first half of this year compared to the same period last year.
Rebecca Shields, the president and CEO of Kids Help Phone, expressed concern over the frequency of crisis texts, noting that they receive one every 90 seconds. She highlighted a worrisome trend of younger individuals, below the age of 12, disclosing thoughts of suicide to the organization. Shields anticipates a further uptick in numbers when students resume school activities in September.
Factors contributing to the mental health challenges faced by young people are multifaceted, encompassing concerns related to geopolitical issues, climate change, artificial intelligence, economic pressures, and the impact of social media, alongside traditional stressors like academic pressures and relationship dynamics. Shields emphasized that young individuals are deeply invested in their future, with apprehensions about the environment and a sense of powerlessness.
The surge in calls, particularly at night, indicates a heightened need for support during solitary moments. Shields emphasized the urgency for more volunteers and donations to bolster the organization’s capacity to meet the escalating demand. Despite the partnership with the N.W.T. Department of Health and Social Services, there was no response to queries from CBC for an interview.
Psychotherapist Anansia Leslie-Bailey echoed similar observations from her practice, underscoring the overwhelming challenges facing teenagers today. She acknowledged a positive aspect in the increased awareness among youth regarding available support resources. Data shared by Kids Help Phone revealed that 78% of young callers are opening up about their issues for the first time when engaging with online counselors.
Leslie-Bailey encouraged those struggling with mental health issues to seek assistance from helplines, school counselors, or online psychologists. She emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for young individuals to share their experiences and advised parents to engage in open conversations with their children to better understand and support them.
For individuals in need of immediate assistance, a list of helplines and support services was provided, offering confidential and round-the-clock support across the North.