The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented mental health crisis. During this pandemic, Canadians have struggled with fears about their health, the well-being of their loved ones and their finances. In a survey from 2020, 50% of surveyed Canadians claimed that their mental health worsened since the start of the pandemic. Similarly, the anxiety and isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have negatively impacted the mental health of children and adolescents across Canada.

Some experts believe that the negative impact of COVID-19 on children was so pronounced that it should be considered an adverse childhood experience (ACE). A large Canadian cohort study showed that 67-70% of children and youth (ages 6 to 18) have experienced deterioration in at least one aspect of their mental health over the pandemic. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the frequency and effect of pre-existing ACEs on children and youth due to social isolation and increased interaction with elements that contribute to their stress and trauma.