New data from the financial services organization Sun Life shows the toll the pandemic has taken on Canadian youth.
Mental health claims between 2019 and 2021 spiked among young Canadians, and drug claims to treat disorders such as depression or anxiety jumped 24% in those under 30.
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Adults 30 to 39 also saw a rise in claims of 13%.
The total Sun Life drug claims in 2021 for mental disorders was 16%.
Mental health paramedical claims (which cover treatments such as massage therapy, for example, that help relieve sleep disorders, chronic stress and the like) have increased 51% for people under 35.
The trends were identified using Sun Life’s own data and their Designed For Health report, which delves into the trends affecting disability claims among the many millions of Canadians enrolled in the Sun Life benefits plan.
A statement from Sun Life says the increase in mental health drug claims can potentially be viewed as positive as this indicates an increase in awareness around mental health issues and around seeking support.
Sun Life’s Designed for Health report shows mental disorders continue to be the main driver of disability claims — representing more than half of all disability claims for those under 44 years old.
Earlier this year, Sun Life pledged $3.7 million — through 10 partner organizations coast to coast, including CAMH and Michael Garron Hospital in Toronto — to support mental health programs for at-risk and marginalized youth in Canada.
That figure is part of a total donation in support of mental health of more than $6.1 million.
