Youth mental health in a Canadian community sample during COVID‐19: Exploring the role of perceived sense of belonging

Abstract

AbstractResearch has linked broad societal changes related to the COVID‐19 pandemic and poorer mental health in young people. There remains a pressing need for studies examining the factors that are associated with better mental health and well‐being. The current study addresses this gap using a community‐based survey called the Waterloo Region Youth Impact Survey. It was designed in partnership with local youth and the Canadian Index of Well‐Being in accordance with United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund guidelines. Using a convenience sampling methodology, this survey was developed to explore the domains, rates, and correlates of well‐being and mental health among youth during the pandemic (N = 297). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to identify dimensions related to children's social environment (friends, school, family), sense of belonging, mental health, and well‐being. Subsequently, a mediation model was tested. The relationship between children's environments and mental health and well‐being operated via perceived sense of belonging. Findings shed light on patterns of youth mental health and well‐being during the pandemic, illustrating the role of belonging as a promotive factor with public health relevance.