Displaced Ukrainian
Youth in Canada

Study is now open!

The mental health of Ukrainian youth in Canada is a critical concern. Not only do they have to navigate the complexities of displacement, adaptation, and integration into their lives in Canada, but they have to do it while there is an ongoing invasion in their homeland. 

As of November. 28, 2023, more than 1 million refugee visas for Ukrainians have been issued and 210,178 of them have come to Canada. This number is only expected to grow as the expiry date for the visas draws near. 

Various systematic reviews have found a high rate of mental health problems in refugees in Canada, specifically in youth. Reviews have also shown significant negative effects of the Russian invasion on the mental health of Ukrainian youth living in Ukraine. The varying results of some immigrant youth having higher rates of risk for mental health problems, some having no higher rate, and some even displaying exceptional well-being suggests a need to further examine the effects of the Russian invasion on displaced Ukrainian youth. 

Method: A survey (available in both English and Ukrainian) will be conducted among a sample of 500 Ukrainian youth (aged 15-25 years old) in Canada that have been displaced from the Russian invasion.  Using feedback from an advisory council consisting of Ukrainian youth, this survey intends to collect data on mental health, factors that may affect mental health, and the potential need for services for Ukrainian youth in Canada. Participants will be recruited online through social media and advertisements (convenience sampling). Additionally, every 2 months, there will be 3 draws, each for a $100 gift card. 

Data will be collected on demographics, experiences of war, transit, and life since coming to Canada, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, access to mental health care, and social support.

We hope that future studies can use this data to develop and implement interventions for this vulnerable population.