Majority of Canadian youth have been bullied, child poverty on the rise: report
A Call to Action for Canadian Youth: Addressing Bullying, Poverty, and Mental Illness
As students across the country return to school, a new report sheds light on concerning trends affecting Canadian youth. The Raising Canada report reveals a rise in bullying, poverty, and mental illness among children and teenagers, urging policy-makers to take action to improve the well-being of our young population.
Key Findings:
- Over 70% of Canadian youth aged 12 to 17 experienced bullying in the past year.
- More than 13% of children were living in poverty by the end of 2024.
- Increased levels of bullying, with two-thirds of youth experiencing bullying and one in five facing cyberbullying.
- 71% of teachers report acting to prevent bullying, but only 25% of students feel supported by teachers.
- About 1.4 million Canadian children experienced poverty by the end of 2024, the highest level since 2017.
Call to Action:
Sara Austin, CEO of Children First Canada, emphasizes the urgent need for action to address the challenges faced by Canadian youth. She highlights the impact of online technology on mental health and stresses the importance of supporting children in schools and communities.
The report also raises concerns about childhood mistreatment, vaccine-preventable illnesses, racism, and climate change as additional threats to youth well-being. Austin calls for a national strategy to improve the lives of children and the appointment of a commissioner to hold leaders accountable.
Supporting Our Youth:
As parents and caregivers, it is essential to engage in open conversations with children about their experiences and challenges. By actively listening and addressing their concerns, we can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate difficult situations.
Let’s come together as a community to prioritize the well-being of our youth and create a brighter future for the next generation.
This article is a reflection of the report published by The Canadian Press on September 2, 2025.
Written by Natasha Baldin, The Canadian Press
