Why Community & Personal Integration Matters
Youth mental health distress rising. More than half of Ontario students now report symptoms of depression and anxiety; about one in six (~18%) had serious suicidal thoughts in the past year. (CAMH 2024). Also, 38% of students rate their ability to cope as fair or poor. (CAMH 2024)
Prevalence of mental health conditions
Based on Ontario CHSCY data, ~15.0% of youth aged 12-17 years had a diagnosed mental health condition; overall for children & youth (1–17 years), the prevalence was ~9.8%(PHO 2025).
Social isolation and disconnection. Ontario communities are more diverse than ever, yet many people, youth, elders, newcomers, and racialized groups, report feeling disconnected.
Programs that build belonging, cultural expression, and intergenerational connection are essential to counter this.
Racialized youth represent over 40% of all youth in the GTA. Yet racialized and newcomer youth are significantly more likely to experience Higher rates of discrimination in school and community settings A major Ontario study found that newcomer youth report far higher levels of social isolation, especially in the first 5 years after arrival.
Programs Running Under This Stream
Program Updates
Where We Stand: Community & Personal Integration
At OII, we believe that youth, families, and cultures are the heartbeat of community life. Through Youth & Family Connections and Cultures of Connection we:
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