Adolescence is hard. As if the pressure to fit in, the stress of school, and the physical changes weren’t overwhelming enough, the anxiety of the pandemic and the affordability crisis have made it even harder for teens in Canada. Fortunately, a powerful resource for combating the youth mental health crisis is right outside: the great outdoors
Nearly two-thirds of youth aged 15 to 24 in Canada reported that the pandemic harmed their mental health. On the other hand, teens with a stronger connection to nature coped better with the challenges of the pandemic. Our latest report, Help Me Out, shows the critical role outdoor education plays in building the skills youth need to succeed in this rapidly changing world.
Nature-based outdoor learning builds confidence, improves self-esteem and increases resilience. These social-emotional skills enable youth to recover more quickly from setbacks and maintain a positive attitude.