Mental health, homelessness, and addiction: young people must be heard
- May 11
- 2 min read
Updated: May 20
The Government of Quebec is currently holding a public consultation to reflect on future directions in mental health, homelessness, and addiction. For us, this process is an important opportunity to highlight how prevention must be at the centre of actions aimed at young people.
On the ground, we see every day the impact of limited and delayed access to appropriate services. Too often, young people receive help only when situations have already become critical. However, by investing more in prevention, close support, and accessible safe spaces, it is possible to act earlier and prevent certain situations from getting worse.
In the brief we will be submitting, we emphasize the importance of addressing the systemic causes of youth homelessness, where pathways into exclusion often begin. To reverse the current trend, the government must prioritize the development of an interministerial strategy specifically focused on preventing youth homelessness, guided by a long-term vision and involving all relevant sectors to better respond to the needs of at-risk youth. This approach must also ensure better continuity of services and prevent breaks in support, particularly during transitions out of youth protection services.
Government action must also be based on concrete measures to improve young people’s living conditions, including better access to a livable income. This includes increasing social assistance benefits and raising the minimum wage. Simplifying administrative procedures is also essential to make it easier to access health, housing, and education services. Finally, access to reliable and up-to-date data remains necessary to better guide public policies and actions.
Community organizations already play an essential role with young people by providing support, guidance, and adapted accompaniment. It is important that this on-the-ground expertise be recognized and taken into account in the government’s future action plan scheduled for 2026.
To consult the government initiative: National consultation on mental health, homelessness, and addiction
To complete and share the government questionnaire in order to multiply testimonies and strengthen the reach of the consultation:
We encourage organizations to submit their own brief before the June 6 deadline.
