Mental Health in Canada: What the 2026 Data Reveals
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a great opportunity to take a moment to reflect on our well-being and that of those around us.
In a world where personal, professional, and societal pressures are ever-present, mental health has become impossible to ignore. And yet, despite growing awareness, many realities remain under the surface.
A Reality That Often Stays Hidden
According to a LEO survey conducted in February 2026, nearly one in two Canadians has hidden their mental health status at work over the past year.
Even more striking, 24% say they do so consistently with their employer or colleagues, even when dealing with stress, anxiety, or burnout.
The takeaway is clear: mental health is still a difficult conversation in the workplace.
Unequal Experiences Across Groups
Mental health is not experienced the same way by everyone.
Younger workers are particularly affected, with nearly one in four consistently concealing their struggles.
Women are also more likely to hide their mental health, with 50% reporting they do so, compared to 38% of men.
These gaps reflect deeper realities, including job insecurity and the persistent stigma surrounding mental health.
Progress, but Not Without Limits
There are, however, signs of progress.
In 2025, 86% of Canadians rated their mental health as good, very good, or excellent, compared to 79% in 2020. At the same time, the proportion reporting poor mental health has declined from 19% to 11%.
While encouraging, these figures should be interpreted with caution. Progress is real, but it remains uneven, especially in workplace settings.
Context Plays a Major Part
Mental health does not exist in isolation. It is shaped by the world around us. Mental health isn’t only about personal challenges; it’s also shaped by the environment around us.
Canadians point to several key factors influencing their well-being:
- Political issues and government decisions: 72%
- Family and personal matters: 69%
- Health and wellness concerns: 67%
- Social and cultural issues: 60%
These insights highlight just how closely our environment is tied to our mental balance.
Starting the Conversation Matters
Talking about mental health isn’t always easy, but it’s essential.
Whether with a friend, a colleague, or a professional, opening up helps break down stigma and move the conversation forward.
You are not alone.
Sources :
- Leger Survey on Mental Health Among 2SLGBTQIA+ People, Leger, 2024. https://interligne.co/sondage-leger-sur-la-sante-mentale-aupres-des-personnes-2elgbtqia/
- Canada in 2025: A Year Marked by Uncertainty, Strain and Resilience, Leger, 2025, https://leger360.com/in-the-news-leger-year-in-review-2025-can/
Any questions? Contact Us!
Our FAQ section is full of helpful answers, but if you still have questions, our team is here to help.
Follow us on social media!
Image credits : Shutterstock.com
How would you describe your mental health?
All comments must remain respectful and must not contain inappropriate, offensive, defamatory content, or anything that goes against the terms of use; otherwise, they may not be approved or may be removed by LEO.
Leave a Reply