anxiety disorders, young women consistently had higher prevalence rates compared to other age and gender groups.
It is important to note that these findings reflect self-reported symptoms and do not necessarily represent clinically diagnosed mental disorders. However, they provide valuable insights into the mental health landscape in Canada and highlight the need for targeted interventions and support for those experiencing mood and anxiety disorders.
The study also examined the prevalence of substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder and cannabis use disorder. Interestingly, while the prevalence of alcohol use disorder decreased over the past 10 years, the prevalence of cannabis use disorder remained relatively stable. This may be attributed to changing societal norms and increased acceptance of cannabis use.
In terms of access to mental health care, the study found that about half of individuals who met the diagnostic criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder had talked to a health professional about their mental health in the past 12 months. This highlights the importance of destigmatizing mental health and encouraging individuals to seek support from healthcare professionals.
However, the study also revealed that 1 in 3 individuals with a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder reported unmet or partially met needs for mental health care services. This suggests that there are barriers to accessing appropriate care, which may include long wait times, limited availability of mental health professionals, and lack of awareness about available services.
Among the unmet needs for mental health care, counselling or psychotherapy had higher rates compared to medication or information about mental health. This underscores the importance of providing accessible and effective psychotherapy services to individuals with mental disorders.
The study also examined the disparities in mental health outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups in Canada. Overall, the prevalence of mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders was lower among South Asian, Chinese, Filipino, and Black people compared to non-racialized, non-Indigenous individuals. However, there were some variations in the magnitude of these differences depending on the specific disorder.
These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive and inclusive mental health services that address the unique needs and experiences of diverse communities.
In conclusion, this study provides updated prevalence estimates for mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders in Canada. It highlights the increasing prevalence of these disorders, particularly among young women, and the need for improved access to mental health care services. The findings also emphasize the importance of addressing disparities in mental health outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups. By understanding the mental health landscape in Canada, policymakers and healthcare providers can better allocate resources and develop targeted interventions to promote mental well-being for all Canadians.