A new study reveals a troubling rise in loneliness and mental health struggles among young adults in Quebec, with researchers warning the trend has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings, part of a report titled Mental Health in the Context of Multiple Crises: Comparison October 2021 vs. December 2025, show that nearly six in 10 young adults aged 18 to 29 now report feeling lonely—a sharp increase from previous years.
The research, conducted by a team at the University of Sherbrooke, surveyed 2,037 adults in the Estrie and Montérégie regions in December 2025. The results paint a concerning picture of mental health among young Quebecers, with anxiety and depression rates climbing significantly since 2021.
Mental Health Declines Among Young Adults
According to the study, symptoms of anxiety among 18- to 29-year-olds rose from 21% in 2021 to 31% in 2025. Meanwhile, depressive symptoms increased from 23% to 30% over the same period. Researchers describe this age group as experiencing the most rapid deterioration in mental health, calling the trend “alarming” given the critical life transitions—such as entering the workforce or pursuing higher education—occurring during these years.
“This is the group where mental health is declining the fastest, and it’s deeply concerning,” said Gabriel Blouin-Genest, a researcher at the Interdisciplinary Center for Development in Health and a professor at the University of Sherbrooke’s Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences. “Anxiety and depression are rising at a pivotal stage of life, and the consequences could be long-lasting.”
The study also highlights a dramatic increase in loneliness, with 58% of young adults reporting feelings of isolation in 2025, up from 41% in 2021. Blouin-Genest suggests that constant reliance on technology and screens may be contributing to the problem, particularly among younger generations. “They’re disconnected from real relationships, and that’s leading to more anxiety,” he noted.
The Role of Technology and Social Isolation
The pandemic’s lingering effects, including remote work and reduced in-person socialization, appear to have exacerbated the issue. While older adults also faced isolation during lockdowns, young adults seem to be bearing the brunt of the long-term impact. The study’s authors warn that the shift toward digital communication—while convenient—may be replacing meaningful human connections.
“Technology and screens are used constantly, especially by younger people,” Blouin-Genest said. “But they’re not a substitute for face-to-face interactions, and that disconnection is taking a toll.”
The findings align with broader concerns about the mental health of young adults, who are navigating a complex landscape of economic uncertainty, social media pressures, and evolving workplace norms. Public health experts say the data underscores the need for targeted interventions, such as community programs and mental health resources tailored to this age group.
What’s Next for Mental Health Support?
While the study focuses on Quebec, the trends mirror those seen in other parts of North America and Europe, where young adults are increasingly reporting feelings of loneliness and mental health struggles. The research team emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues now to prevent long-term consequences, such as chronic mental health conditions or reduced productivity.
“This isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a public health challenge,” Blouin-Genest said. “We need to find ways to reconnect young people with their communities and with each other.”
For now, the study serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing mental health crisis among young adults, one that has only deepened in the years since the pandemic. As researchers continue to monitor the situation, the hope is that the data will inform policies and programs aimed at fostering resilience and social connection.
“This is the group where mental health is deteriorating the most, and it’s deeply concerning. Anxiety and depression are rising at a pivotal stage of life.”
— Gabriel Blouin-Genest, University of Sherbrooke
If you or someone you recognize is struggling with mental health, resources are available. Reaching out to local support organizations or mental health professionals can craft a difference.
