Quebec kids’ helpline sounds alarm over rising mental health calls
The operators of Tel-Jeunes, a Quebec phone line dedicated to helping young people in distress, have recently reported an increase in calls and are raising concerns about the growing issue of youth mental health struggles. According to a news release from the organization, they have observed a troubling trend of young people experiencing distress at a younger age.
Tel-Jeunes, established in 1991, has noted that 40 percent of all calls they receive are related to mental health issues, with a significant rise in the number of youth contemplating suicide. In 2024 alone, the phone service assisted 30,000 young individuals, and executive director Annie Papageorgiou revealed that 15 percent of them had suicidal thoughts. This is nearly double the number from 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Papageorgiou expressed that the callers reaching out for help are increasingly in a state of crisis, with many being very young. She highlighted a concerning trend of more children between the ages of six and 11 contacting Tel-Jeunes for support. The number of calls from this age group has tripled in comparison to five years ago, exceeding 1,000.
Developmental psychologist Mike Boyes from the University of Calgary pointed out that the surge in distress among young people could be linked to factors such as technology and the isolation brought on by the pandemic. The widespread access to phones and social media platforms may be contributing to the issue, but Boyes emphasized the overall impact of social isolation on young individuals’ development.
In addition to mental health concerns, callers are grappling with stress, performance anxiety, bullying, and questions regarding sexuality and friendship. Papageorgiou emphasized the importance of frontline services like Tel-Jeunes in addressing the increasing distress among adolescents and urged young people to seek help promptly.
The organization referenced a report from Sainte-Justine Hospital sent to Quebec’s coalition of psychologists in 2023, revealing a 325 percent increase in the number of young people awaiting consultations with psychologists at the hospital. This surge in demand for mental health services has put additional pressure on Tel-Jeunes, especially amidst a shortage of psychologists and psychiatrists in the public system.
Papageorgiou expressed her intention to meet with Quebec’s social services minister to discuss the pressing issue. CBC News reached out to the ministry for comment but has not received a response at the time of reporting.
For individuals struggling with mental health challenges or in need of support, various resources are available to provide assistance. It is crucial to seek help promptly to address any concerns and ensure well-being.
