ABOUT THE STUDY

This study was conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights with an online sample of 3,519 adult Canadians in February 2026. The results from this study provide insights into the mental health of Canadians and reveal concerning trends. Results between the polls are compared where applicable. National results have been weighted by the most current census data in terms of gender, age, & region to ensure the total sample is representative of the population as a whole.

A series of research briefs that provide an in-depth, specific investigation of our polling results can be found here. Results of earlier polls are compared when applicable.  

Findings from our polls are searchable on our free Data Portal.

Our latest report reveals Canadians are struggling to navigate and stay in the mental health care system.

This population poll uncovered nearly half of Canadians who accessed mental health support ended care earlier than planned or needed. Key reasons included not seeing progress (15%), unclear expectations (13%), feeling misunderstood (12%), lack of trust in the approach (10%), and limited follow-up or regular check-ins (9%).

However, satisfaction with mental health support is at its highest level in the past 2 years.

Key findings include: 

Concerning trends on coping mechanisms.

• Many Canadians report using positive ways to cope with stress and difficult emotions, including talking to others (42%), hobbies (38%), meditation or relaxation (22%), and seeing a mental health professional (13%

• However, 21% of Canadians report relying on potentially harmful coping strategies, such as alcohol, drugs, pornography, or gambling.

Trouble navigating mental health care.

• Among Canadians who accessed mental health support, 50% sought help on their own by directly contacting a mental health service, while the other half were referred or had their first contact arranged by someone else.

• This highlights the fact that many individuals are not well equipped to navigate the mental health care system on their own in order to access support

Stigma and uncertainty continue to delay help-seeking.

• One in five (18%) Canadians view seeking mental health support as a sign of weakness.

• Fear of judgment prevent 2 in 5 Canadians (39%) from talking about their mental health with others.