The Silent Crisis: Youth Are Falling Through the Cracks
We are currently in the midst of overlapping crises housing, opioid addiction, and mental health. But one growing issue that isn’t getting the spotlight it deserves is the youth crisis. With rising economic pressure and social instability, young people are increasingly falling through the cracks.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Youth
The youth crisis didn’t start with COVID-19 but it intensified. Many young people today are grappling with lost dreams, uncertainty, and a loss of direction. From my experience working in education, justice, and child welfare systems, I’ve witnessed youth lose their motivation, disconnect from opportunity, and struggle with identity and purpose.
The Financial Reality for Young Canadians
Despite being told to go to university, earn a degree, and land a job, many young people find themselves unable to survive financially. With housing costs absorbing 40–60% of income, and student loans, food, and daily essentials rising in cost, financial independence is slipping out of reach.
Today’s youth are often criticized for lacking work ethic, but the truth is—they’re working harder than ever in a system that isn’t built for them.
The Mental Health Toll
Financial instability has a direct impact on mental health. Many youth feel hopeless about their future, overwhelmed by the lack of guidance and support. Without strong family backing or financial education, they often feel lost and unsupported by the systems designed to protect them.
The Missing Piece: Financial Literacy
One of the most powerful tools we can offer youth is financial education. Budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding credit are critical life skills that are too often left out of school curricula. Without these tools, youth are vulnerable to long-term financial hardship.
Why I Created My Business
I started Lyons Family Collective to help individuals especially youth navigate this complex world. Through coaching and personalized financial education, I offer tools, support, and real-life strategies to help youth reclaim control over their futures.
Resources for Youth in Crisis
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 – kidshelpphone.ca
- Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 – talksuicide.ca
- Youthdale Crisis Line: 416-363-9990 – youthdale.ca
- Youth Services Bureau (YSB): 1-877-377-7775 – ysb.ca