How Are Youth Using AI for Mental Health Support, and Is It Safe?

One in three youth now use generative AI for mental health support at least once a month. In this episode, we explore why young people are turning to AI, what it offers them, where it falls short, and how adults can help youth use it safely.

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The episode at a glance

CEO Michael (host) talks with Jack.org’s research and evaluation lead and two Youth Voice Council co-researchers about the 2026 Youth Voice Report. The report surveyed nearly 400 young people in Canada about generative AI and mental health.

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Watch the full episode on YouTube‍

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Key takeaways

1. One in three youth use GenAI for mental health support at least monthly. Even the co-researchers found this higher than they expected.
2. Youth use AI out of necessity, not convenience or laziness. 78% of respondents face barriers to care, such as cost, wait times, provider shortages, and stigma.
3. The standout quote: one young person described AI as “a band-aid to a broken limb that cannot be fixed. May as well just take the band-aid.” Youth know the limits of these tools, but sometimes a band-aid is all they can get.
4. About 40% use it to process emotions. That means venting, understanding their feelings, and getting validation. They said it made them feel comfortable and supported.
5. Adults should lead with curiosity, not judgment. Instead of asking “why didn’t you come to me?”, ask what need the tool is meeting and what barriers stand in the way of other support.
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Key Topics

• Use of generative AI for mental health support by youth
• Barriers to traditional mental health care in Canada
• Youth perspectives on AI as a support tool
• Risks and benefits of AI in mental health
• Role of peers and adults in supporting safe AI use
• Regulation and safety of AI for young people
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Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the panel and report on AI and mental health
• 01:59 Overview of the Youth Voice Report and its significance
• 03:55 Young people's use of AI for mental health support
• 06:01 Surprising statistics on youth AI usage for mental health
• 07:58 Concerns about AI validation and safety
• 10:00 Gaps in Canada's mental health system driving AI use
• 12:10 AI as a low barrier, accessible support tool
• 13:53 AI as a starting point for help-seeking
• 16:09 Early intervention and preventative use of AI
• 17:03 Peer support and the importance of human connection
• 19:07 Addressing stigma and adult support in AI use
• 20:50 Youth priorities for digital safety and regulation
• 23:05 Supporting youth through education and curiosity
• 24:59 Balancing AI tools with human support and safety
• 29:45 Youth involvement in research and decision-making
• 33:45 Fact or fiction: AI preferences and misconceptions
• 35:53 Hopes for the future of mental health in Canada

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Listen and Learn More

• Listen to the episode on Spotify
• Download and read the Youth Voice Report
• Help fund this work: Donate now