The Provincial Report consolidates results from the Youth Development Instrument (YDI). In 2023, we heard from 14,596 young people in 28 school districts and 28 independent schools across BC about what matters for their health and well-being.

Although the report shows some concerning results about youth mental health, it also sheds light on what is important to support young people to thrive. Daniel Chen, a member of the YDI Youth Advisory Council (YAC), reminds us the importance of a positive approach to health and well-being: “I had never suspected myself of mental illness, but after becoming a part of YAC and attending the summer research institute retreat, I realized that: no, it’s not about ‘not being ill,’ it’s about making sure youth are in the healthiest state possible, and I did not realize how fulfilled and productive I could feel until after the retreat.” 

Aligning with this well-being promotion approach, the YDI Provincial Report includes findings about sleep, physical activity, positive relationships, and other factors that have been linked to young people thriving. 

“This report is an opportunity to hear from young people about how we can work together across sectors like health and education and with youth directly to create environments in which young people can flourish,” says Dr. Hasina Samji, an Assistant Professor at Simon Fraser University. “Whether it is more access to time outdoors or finding ways to bolster community belonging, there are a lot of concrete ways in which we can support youth mental health and well-being.”