New Technology, Familiar Barriers: What Young People Say About Using Generative AI for Mental Health Support (2026 Youth Voice Report)

Key Findings

• — Of 471 respondents, 452 used GenAI for any purpose and 395 used it for mental-health purposes; analysis covers those 395, of whom one in three used GenAI for mental-health purposes monthly or more
• — 78% reported at least one barrier to accessing mental-health support (cost, wait times, stigma)
• — Nearly half had not told anyone about their GenAI use for mental health; disclosure went more often to a peer (37%) than to caring adults (6-12%)
• — 43-50% still viewed human relationships as the more effective source of support
• — Social relationships, including friendships, romantic relationships and family dynamics, were the most common situations raised with GenAI (46%), followed by academic challenges

Methodology Notes

Mixed-methods online survey in English and French, distributed by email to Jack.org's youth network (Communities, Be There, Youth Voice Council and Jack Talks programmes); eligibility = self-reported GenAI use for mental-health purposes; $10 honorarium. Convenience sample from an engaged advocacy network, not representative; the report lists this among its limitations. Fieldwork dates and respondent age range not read. Release date from the CNW press release (Toronto, 9 Oct 2026); the PDF carries no day.

Sources