New Jack.org research finds one in three young people surveyed are using AI for mental health support

Released ahead of World Mental Health Day, new report highlights how barriers to care and concerns about stigma may be shaping young people's use of AI

TORONTO, Oct. 9, 2026 /CNW/ -- One in three young people surveyed are using generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) at least once a month to support their mental health, according to new research from Jack.org. Nearly half have not shared their use with anyone.

Released ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10, New Technology, Familiar Barriers examines how and why young people are turning to GenAI for mental health support, the challenges they face in accessing care, and what their experiences reveal about the changing youth mental health landscape.

The report, based on a national survey of 395 young people connected to Jack.org, found that young people perceive that GenAI can offer a sense of accessibility and freedom from judgement, particularly when support from another person feels unavailable or difficult to access.

The findings suggest that longstanding barriers to mental health care may be contributing to young people's use of these technologies. Among respondents, 78% reported experiencing at least one barrier to accessing mental health support, including cost, wait times, and stigma.

The research also raises questions about how stigma may be shaping conversations about GenAI and mental health. Nearly half of young people surveyed who use GenAI for mental health support reported not telling anyone about it. This suggests the possibility of compounding stigma, where young people may face challenges discussing their mental health while also feeling hesitant to disclose that they are using AI for mental health purposes.

"Young people are using technologies that didn't exist a few years ago, and they're figuring out what that means for their mental health in real time," said Michael Braithwaite, President and CEO of Jack.org. "This report gives us insight into how young people are using these tools and what they need from the people around them. If we want to support young people, we need to understand how these tools are affecting them and have open conversations about it. We don't want them to feel like they have to figure this all out alone."

The findings highlight the need for mental health education and supportive relationships to keep pace with emerging technologies. As GenAI becomes part of how young people navigate their mental health, parents, educators, peers, and communities have an important role to play in understanding these tools, recognizing potential risks, and creating opportunities for informed conversations that help young people access the support they need.

Read the report: https://www.jack.org/youthvoicereport2026

About Jack.org

Jack.org is Canada's movement for youth mental health. Through mental health education, community-building, and advocacy, Jack.org equips young people with the knowledge and skills to access mental health support before a crisis. Jack.org focuses on mental health promotion and suicide prevention, working alongside young people to build a Canada where no young person struggles alone.

SOURCE Jack.org

Media contact: Danielle Kinahan, Director, Strategic Storytelling, Jack.org, [email protected]