Photo courtesy of McGill University
Dr. Tina Montreuil, Associate Professor at McGill University, shared her insights on the rising mental health challenges among Québec high school students, emphasizing the importance of community support and actionable solutions

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A newly released report from the Institut de la statistique du Québec highlights a worrying trend: a sharp rise in mental health issues among high school students over the past decade. The report, which draws on data from over 70,000 students in French and English schools across Quebec, underscores alarming increases in anxiety, depression, and other disorders—issues that experts like Dr. Tina Montreuil emphasize need urgent attention.

Dr. Montreuil, an Associate Professor in Educational and Counselling Psychology at McGill University, reflected on the findings during a recent interview. “This report provides a snapshot of how mental health among teenagers has evolved over the past ten years,” she noted. While some conditions like attention deficit disorders have long been present, new phenomena, such as eco-anxiety, have emerged as significant concerns.

Stark statistics on youth mental health

The report paints a grim picture: professionally diagnosed anxiety disorders rose from 9 per cent in 2010–2011 to 20 per cent in 2022–2023. Depression also climbed from 4.9 per cent to 7 per cent, and eating disorders showed the most dramatic increase, from 1.8 per cent to 5 per cent. Attention deficit disorders now affect a staggering 25 per cent of students, up from 13 per cent in 2010.

The data also reveals gender disparities. Girls are disproportionately affected by anxiety (8 per cent take medication compared to 3.8 per cent of boys), depression, and eco-anxiety—a newer metric that tracks stress tied to environmental concerns. The decline in self-esteem was also more pronounced in girls, dropping from 15 per cent in 2010 to just 7 per cent in 2023. For boys, the decline was smaller but still significant, falling from 24 per cent to 16 per cent in the same period.

Dr. Montreuil pointed out, “Eco-anxiety is a reflection of our increasing awareness of climate change and the stress it induces, especially in younger generations who feel they have little control over the situation.”

Factors behind the numbers

While the pandemic has been blamed for rising mental health challenges, Dr. Montreuil argued it’s not the sole culprit. “Interestingly, the steepest increase in issues occurred before the pandemic,” she explained. “During the pandemic, there was more awareness and discussion about mental health, which might have temporarily slowed the upward trend. Parents were more present, and there was a surge in available resources.”

Dr. Montreuil emphasized that increased awareness and better diagnostic tools also contribute to the rising numbers. “We’re more attuned to what anxiety looks like, which leads to more diagnoses,” she said. “But there’s no denying societal factors, like social media, play a role. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram amplify social comparison, contributing to low self-esteem and even eating disorders.”

Screen time and sleep deficits

The report also sheds light on lifestyle habits affecting teens. Nearly 25 per cent of students spend four or more hours a day on screens, a practice linked to inadequate sleep. Almost half of all high school students report not getting enough rest on school nights, a number that has risen since 2016. Students who spend extensive time on screens are significantly more likely to experience sleep deprivation, with 63 per cent of heavy screen users reporting less-than-recommended sleep compared to 43 per cent of those with moderate screen time.

Dr. Montreuil elaborated on the implications, stating, “Sleep is foundational for mental health. When teens sacrifice rest for screens, it exacerbates anxiety, mood disorders, and academic challenges.”

Eco-anxiety: A growing concern

One of the report’s standout findings is the prevalence of eco-anxiety. About 17 per cent of students experience it frequently, with 8 per cent reporting it nearly all the time. Girls are significantly more affected than boys, reflecting broader gender trends in anxiety.

“Eco-anxiety often stems from a lack of control,” Dr. Montreuil explained. “Teens feel overwhelmed by global issues like climate change. The key is to empower them through actionable steps, like participating in recycling initiatives or environmental advocacy.” She added that collective action helps alleviate feelings of helplessness. “When teens see themselves as part of a community effort, it boosts resilience and mitigates anxiety.”

Practical solutions include schools and families encouraging eco-friendly behaviours. “Simple actions, like reducing waste or engaging in environmental clubs, can give teens a sense of agency,” said Dr. Montreuil. “Even small steps matter when they’re part of a larger movement.”

Reckless behaviour declines, but challenges remain

Amid these concerns, there are some positive trends. The proportion of students engaging in reckless or rebellious behaviour dropped from 36 per cent in 2010 to 26 per cent in 2023. Similarly, delinquent behaviour, including property crime and acts of violence, has decreased over the past decade. However, Dr. Montreuil warned that declining risky behaviour does not necessarily equate to improved mental health. “Fewer teens are acting out, but internalized struggles like anxiety and depression are still rising,” she explained.

Building resilience through schools and communities

Dr. Montreuil underscored the critical role of schools in addressing these issues. “Kids spend 80 per cent of their day at school,” she said. “We need more programs that teach emotional regulation and coping strategies. Initiatives like Healthy Minds Healthy Schools are already making a difference.”

She also highlighted the importance of community support. “Social support is a proven antidote to mental health issues,” she remarked. “As a society, we need to foster stronger connections, not just among teens but across generations. Simple acts, like asking someone how they’re really doing, can have a profound impact.”

Local initiatives in the Eastern Townships are teaching teens and younger children essential skills to navigate mental health challenges. Dr. Montreuil emphasized that these efforts should extend to elementary schools to prepare younger children for the pressures they’ll face as teenagers.

Addressing social media and self-esteem

Social media’s impact on self-esteem and eating disorders also featured prominently in the report. “The more time teens spend on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the more likely they are to engage in harmful social comparisons,” Dr. Montreuil said. “It’s not about banning these platforms but teaching kids to use them responsibly and critically.”

Dr. Montreuil also noted the role of adults in modelling healthy behaviours. “Adults need to demonstrate balance and show teens how to prioritize well-being over appearance or online validation,” she said. “By fostering a healthy relationship with technology, we can reduce its negative impact on teens’ mental health.”

A call to action

The findings should serve as a wake-up call, Dr. Montreuil urged. “The worst thing we can do is ignore this,” she said. “Instead of being paralyzed by fear, we need to act. Parents, educators, and communities all have a role to play in supporting our youth.”

She concluded with a message of hope. “By empowering teens with tools to manage their mental health and fostering a sense of community, we can turn these alarming trends around. It’s not just about addressing today’s issues but laying the groundwork for a healthier next generation.”